Animal rescue groups have come to recognize a surprising occurrence; black dogs are more difficult to place into new homes than lighter colored dogs. This is known in rescue circles as the "Black Dog Syndrome" or "Big Black Dog Syndrome". It appears that throughout the country big black dogs are euthanized at a higher rate than their lighter counterparts. If not euthanized, they spend a longer time in the shelters than paler peers. There are no scientific studies to support this syndrome but rescue workers are eager to share stories of beautiful, big, black dogs passed by while waiting for homes.
No one is sure why the big, black dogs linger the longest at shelters but there are many theories.
Historically black dogs have been portrayed as fearsome and evil. In ancient lore they are symbols of death and often cohort with the devil. One of the most famous black dogs in literature is The Hound of the Baskervilles, described by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle:
A hound it was, an enormous coal-black hound, but not such a hound as mortal eyes have ever seen. Fire burst from its open mouth, its eyes glowed with a smoldering glare, its muzzle and hackles and dewlap were outlined in flickering flame. Never in the delirious dream of a disordered brain could anything more savage, more appalling, more hellish be conceived than that dark form and savage face which broke upon us out of the wall of fog. The Hound of the Baskervilles, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
This negative portrayal continues in modern literature and film. Harry Potter's Grim and the appearance of a black dog in The Omen are presented as evil. "Beware of Dog" signs usually feature a snarling, fearsome, black dog.
Black dogs are viewed as plain or uninteresting. They blend into drab kennel walls. A single black dog is not easily differentiated amongst the many other dark dogs found at a shelter.
Grey hair starts to show early on their glistening black coats, often making the dog appear older that their actual age.
The contrast of white teeth smiling out of the face of a dark, black dog can appear menacing and easily be misunderstood as aggressive.
Features do not "pop" at first glance on a dark dog. Eyes may appear hidden and hard to read.
Black dogs are hard to photograph and therefore they do not show as well on dog adoption websites.
Rescues and shelters realize that the color of a dog should not be the decisive factor individuals use in making an adoption decision. They are saddened to see big, black dogs not even given a chance to show off their wonderful personalities. There are steps that shelters and rescues can take to make their darker residents stand out in the crowd.
Don't fill cage next to cage with black dogs. Try to mix them up with lighter colored dogs so that individuals have a chance to stand out.
Use brightly colored blankets and toys in their cages. When choosing paint colors opt for something bright and happy.
Adorn the big, black dog with bright bandanas and colorful collars.
Name them something happy and fun. Stay away from names like "Malice" and "Devil" and opt for names like "Bumblebee" and "Licorice".
Photographing darker dogs against the proper background is especially important for a successful shot. Set them up against light backdrops. Avoid photographs of them barking, or showing their teeth, as they will appear more vicious. Pose them with a silly stuffed animal or big red ball. Try to comb hair out of their eyes. Digital cameras are wonderful for rescue photographers. Snap as many shots as possible in a few different locations and you should be able to capture the dog's beauty.
Make sure their write ups include details of their light hearted personalities or endearing quirks.
Try to give black dogs some one on one, meet and greet, time. This will allow them to show off their inner and outer beauty.
Red, white, yellow, brown or black; color should not decide on the appropriate dog for adoption. Family lifestyle and match to the dog's personality should be a primary focus. So the next time you are thinking of adding to your furry family please take a look at the big, black dog behind the kennel walls. He could just be the best decision you ever made.
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