Q. My friend told me black dogs are not adopted because of their color. Is that true?
A. Black Dog Syndrome (BDS) has a mixed history, mostly caused by folklore and superstition. When we go back in history, black was never a sign of good luck. We can see it in many different aspects of our lives. Black cats bring bad luck. Fairy tales, books, and stories will depict evil as black. Movies like The Hounds of the Baskervilles, Harry Potter, and The Omen all depict black dogs as scary. Because of these stereotypes, people believe that black dogs are dangerous and not trustworthy. The result of these suspicions is black dogs take longer to be adopted.
Other possible reasons discussed for BDS are black dogs are hard to see in the darker kennels, and they don’t photograph as well and because they are black, it is difficult to read their facial expressions. People have the perception that black dogs are more aggressive or less friendly. What does the research show?
A study in 2002 showed black dogs were adopted less often. In 2011 ASPCA found that color was a factor, indicating black and brindle dogs were less likely to find homes.
In newer studies the results are different. A 2016 study by Dr. Christy L. Hoffman found black dogs were adopted faster than other colors. Another study in 2023 showed no difference in adoption rates for black dogs versus other colors. Age and breed appear to be a bigger factor when adopting.
In 2024 a report showed a significant reduction in the adoption gap. Education is a big factor for the change. There are awareness campaigns, better photography, and social media efforts by shelters and rescues. These efforts are paying off by debunking the folklore and superstitions of the past.
When adopting a new companion, folks are looking at breed, size, age, and individual temperament versus color alone. With better education for the public by local shelters, more dogs are going to forever homes no matter the color.
Judith K. Herman, DVM, CVH
Animal Wellness Center
Augusta, Maine
www.mainehomeopahticvet.com