National Black Dog Day: Why Black Dogs Are Less Likely to Get Adopted in Shelters | Pupford

When you walk into a shelter, you’re met with wagging tails, pleading eyes, and playful barks. All dogs deserve a loving home, yet there's a phenomenon that's baffling and heartbreaking:

Black dogs are less likely to get adopted.

October 1st marks National Black Dog Day, a day to raise awareness about this issue and celebrate the often-overlooked black dogs in shelters.

In this post, we’ll dive into the reasons why black dogs face adoption challenges, the myths surrounding them, and how National Black Dog Day aims to reverse this trend. We’ll also look at ways to promote the adoption of black dogs and highlight some inspiring stories of black dogs who’ve found their forever homes.

Table of Contents:

1. Why Are Black Dogs Less Likely to Get Adopted?
2. The Importance of National Black Dog Day
3. Debunking the Myths About Black Dogs
4. Why You Should Consider Adopting a Black Dog
5. How to Help Black Dogs Find Homes

Why Are Black Dogs Less Likely to Get Adopted?

Shelters across the country report that black dogs tend to stay longer in their care and are less likely to get adopted. This phenomenon, known as "Black Dog Syndrome," is a real problem that leads to many black dogs being overlooked or euthanized.

But why is this the case? There are several factors that contribute to the bias against black dogs:

Appearance and Perception

One of the primary reasons black dogs are less likely to be adopted is purely aesthetic. People often associate black with negativity, danger, or bad luck. This bias can unconsciously affect a person’s choice when they are considering adopting a dog.

For centuries, black animals, especially cats, have been linked to superstition, and this perception has extended to dogs.

Black dogs can also be harder to photograph, which is crucial in a world where many adoptions start with a picture. In shelter environments, where lighting is often poor, it’s difficult for a black dog to stand out. Their facial expressions may be harder to read in photographs, making it tough for potential adopters to connect with them.

The Superstition Factor

Superstitions around black animals are deeply rooted in various cultures. While black cats are more famously associated with bad luck, black dogs haven't completely escaped these outdated beliefs. In some folklore, black dogs are seen as omens of death or evil spirits. These myths, while irrational, have subtly shaped the way people view black animals.

In many cultures, the color black is associated with mourning, death, or darkness, while lighter colors are linked to purity, innocence, and joy. While modern society is moving past many of these superstitions, they can still affect people's choices at a subconscious level.

Media Portrayal of Black Dogs

Movies, TV shows, and even books often portray black dogs as aggressive, intimidating, or even villainous. Think about the snarling black dog in The Omen or the menacing presence of "The Grim" in the Harry Potter series. These portrayals reinforce the stereotype of black dogs as dangerous or unfriendly.

This negative portrayal can influence potential adopters, who might view a black dog as more threatening or less approachable compared to lighter-colored dogs.

Related Reading: Learn about what it takes to be a canine movie star!

Lack of Visibility in Shelters

Shelters can be overwhelming places. Rows of cages filled with dogs vying for attention can make it difficult for any one dog to stand out. Black dogs often blend into the shadows of their cages, making them less visible to potential adopters.

In shelters with poor lighting, a black dog’s features may not be as prominent as those of lighter-colored dogs. Their eyes, expressions, and unique personalities can be harder to see, leading to them being overlooked.

Age and Size Bias

In addition to color, other factors such as age and size also play a role. Many people seeking to adopt a dog are looking for a young, small, and light-colored dog. Since many black dogs are larger breeds or older, they face additional challenges in getting adopted. Shelters report that large, older black dogs are among the hardest to place in homes, as they are seen as less "adoptable."

The "Generic" Factor

Another unfortunate bias black dogs face is being perceived as "generic" or lacking distinctive features. People often gravitate toward dogs with unique markings or vibrant colors, which are easier to spot in a crowded shelter. Black dogs, particularly those with no special markings, may blend together in the eyes of potential adopters.

The Importance of National Black Dog Day

National Black Dog Day, celebrated every October 1st, was created to combat the misconceptions and prejudices surrounding black dogs. It’s a day to celebrate the beauty, loyalty, and love that black dogs bring into the lives of their families and to encourage potential pet owners to give these often-overlooked dogs a chance.

This day not only raises awareness but also provides an opportunity for shelters and rescue organizations to showcase their black dogs, often with special adoption events, promotions, and campaigns. It’s a chance to flip the narrative and help black dogs shine in the spotlight.

Shelters and rescues do incredible work for dogs of all colors, ages and sizes. Learn more about their life saving work. 

Debunking the Myths About Black Dogs

Many of the biases against black dogs are based on myths and misconceptions. It’s time to debunk some of these:

Myth: Black dogs are more aggressive.

Reality: A dog’s temperament is shaped by their upbringing, genetics, environment, and training, not their color. Black dogs are no more aggressive than dogs of any other color.

Learn about the Canine Ladder of Aggression

Myth: Black dogs are harder to train.

Reality: Color has no bearing on a dog’s intelligence or ability to learn. Black dogs are just as capable of being trained as any other dog.

All dogs can be trained! Sign up for Pupford Academy+ today to get started

Myth: Black dogs are bad luck.

Reality: Superstitions are baseless beliefs that have no grounding in reality. Black dogs are just as loving, loyal, and lucky as any other dog.

Why You Should Consider Adopting a Black Dog

While black dogs may face more challenges in finding homes, they have the same love, loyalty, and companionship to offer as any other dog. Here are some compelling reasons to consider adopting a black dog:

They’re Just as Loving

A dog’s coat color doesn’t affect their ability to love. Black dogs are just as affectionate, loyal, and caring as any other dog. By adopting a black dog, you’re giving a wonderful pet the chance to show you the same unconditional love that all dogs are known for.

They Have Unique Personalities

Black dogs come in all shapes, sizes, and breeds, each with its own unique personality. Whether you’re looking for a playful pup, a loyal companion, or a calm and gentle friend, you’ll find the right black dog that matches your lifestyle.

You’re Saving a Life

By adopting a black dog, you’re not only gaining a loving pet, but you’re also giving them a second chance. Black dogs often face longer stays in shelters, and by adopting one, you’re helping to combat the bias that keeps them from finding homes.

They’re Stunning

There’s something striking about a sleek, shiny black coat. Black dogs can be incredibly beautiful, and they often stand out in their own subtle, elegant way. With the right lighting and care, their coats can be breathtaking.

You’ll Help Break the Cycle

By adopting a black dog, you’re helping to raise awareness about the issue of Black Dog Syndrome. You’ll be part of the solution, helping to break down the biases that keep these dogs from finding homes.

How to Help Black Dogs Find Homes

If you’re not in a position to adopt a black dog, there are still many ways you can help black dogs in shelters:

Volunteer at your local shelter and give black dogs extra attention. Help them stand out by playing with them, taking them on walks, and showcasing their unique personalities.

Foster a black dog. Fostering gives a black dog a break from the shelter environment, allowing them to live in a home where they can receive more attention, training, and socialization. Foster homes often help dogs become more adoptable by showcasing their personalities and helping them thrive outside the stress of a shelter.

Share photos of black dogs on social media. Help them get noticed by potential adopters.

Donate to rescue organizations that focus on helping black dogs or participate in special adoption events like National Black Dog Day.

Advocate for black dogs by educating others about the myths surrounding them and encouraging friends or family members who are looking for a pet to consider adopting a black dog.

Recap: National Black Dog Day

National Black Dog Day shines a much-needed light on the adoption challenges that black dogs face. While it’s disheartening that such biases exist, awareness days like these give us hope that with time, education, and effort, we can change the narrative.

By adopting a black dog, you’re not only gaining a loyal, loving companion—you’re helping to break the stigma and giving a deserving animal the chance to live a happy life. On this National Black Dog Day, let’s celebrate the beauty, uniqueness, and unconditional love that black dogs bring into our lives and do our part to ensure they find the forever homes they deserve.

Interested in learning more about rescue dogs? Learn why millions of dogs end up in shelters each year.