While the rescues at Old Dominion Humane Society (ODHS) aren’t able to change their colors any more than they can change their sizes and ages, there’s a stigma attached to black dogs known as Black Dog Syndrome (BDS), which may make it even harder for them to find forever homes. Throughout February, ODHS is honoring its beautiful and loveable black dogs for National Black Dog Syndrome Awareness Month.
It's not a myth and it’s not made up—black dogs have the lowest adoption rate and the highest euthanasia rate than any other color dog in shelters and rescues, according to DogingtonPost.com, which was created for the love of dogs. Black dogs usually spend four times longer in rescues waiting to be adopted compared to those of different colors. Professionals in shelters and rescues are aware of BDS and the obstacles these dogs face and are making efforts to let potential adopters know about it.
“We have some of the sweetest and loving dogs of every color and combination of colors at Old Dominion, and we’re committed to educating the public about BDS,” said Chrissy Blake, ODHS founder. “It’s really an unconscious thing. Once people realize what BDS is and the reasons these dogs are overlooked, it will become evident to them that these rescues are as wonderful and adoptable as any other dog.”
The reasons black dogs are passed over include:
Superstition—Many times black dogs are depicted in a negative way in folklore and pop culture, possibly affecting how they’re looked at by potential adopters. In the media, a dangerous dog is often black. “The Omen” is one of many movies that feature black dogs as mean and frightening. Because the color has often represented evil and misfortune throughout history, some people come to the conclusion that black dogs are unlucky.
Unawareness of BDS--In general, people are unaware of BDS and don’t realize they’re overlooking black dogs. By becoming aware of the phenomenon, adopters are more likely to give black dogs a second look.
Black Dogs Don’t Stand Out as Much as Lighter-Colored Dogs—Sometimes, when a kennel is dimly lit, black dogs tend to stand out less than those that are lighter in color. When looking through photos of adoptable dogs on sites, such as PetFinder, black dogs tend to be harder to photograph and show their personalities.
“The more we let people know about BDS, the better they’ll understand that these dogs have been, at times, overlooked by no fault of their own,” said Blake. “ODHS is honoring these dogs throughout National Black Dog Syndrome Awareness Month and throughout the year. ODHS has a few black rescue dogs that need forever families, and they’re cute, cuddly and loveable.”