There has been talk lately of Big Black Dog Syndrome, where black dogs have been pretty much doomed to be put to death because they are big and black and people pass them up for lighter colored dogs. Doesn’t this resemble something that is so politically incorrect now that there are laws against it? Yep, people are racist against black dogs. They are the same as other dogs, the only difference their color. Now granted a dog is only as good as his owner, which leads a lot of breeds to get a bad rap (like the pitbull, etc.) and thanks to irresponsible owners, they have ruined it for everyone, especially these dogs.
Is big black dog syndrome fueled by superstition? It’s possible, think about every movie, book, etc. that you have read or seen. Ok, now what kind of dog was in those movies? Usually a big black dog, right? How often do you see a Chihuahua being depicted as evil? Not at all.
In shelters, black dogs don’t really stand out. They don’t photograph well and it’s hard to see their faces in a dark crate or kennel. People fear them because it is harder to read their expressions. Others want a dog with more distinctive markings so it “stands out.”
While thousands of other lighter colored dogs are adopted everyday, these poor dark dogs sit in shelters with no one wanting to take them home. Most end up being euthanized and never get to see a loving adoptive family.
Personally, I like big, black dogs. I grew up with black labs, a chocolate lab, a blue heeler and a cocker spaniel. They were all loving, fun dogs. Even the big black ones! They were all behaved, loved to play and learned tricks easily.
Adopt a big, black dog today!! Go to Pet Finder to find an adoptable dog in your area.
How do you feel about big black dogs? Are you more afraid of them than other, lighter colored dogs? Do you think people are biased against black dogs?
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6 Comments
My first dog as a kid was a black lab named Nicky. She was a sweetheart!
Black is beautiful!!!! There’s a great site devoted to black dogs – blackpearldogs.com. Great post! Thanks for sticking up for us! Woofs, Johann
We’ve launched a new website http://www.startseeingblackdogs.com with free rescources that rescue groups and shelters can use to increase the number of black dog adoptions. We also provide information to help raise public awareness about black dog syndrome. Come check us out and drop us a line at info@startseeingblackdogs.com.
Best wishes,
Heather Rosenwald / startseeingblackdogs.com
I like those dogs alot where can i get one like that and how much would they cost
Rachel,
The top two dogs are Black Labradors, the bottom is a Great Dane. If you are considering getting a dog, please adopt one from your local humane society or animal shelter.
This is insane! I have 4 Labradors, 3 black and 1 yellow. They are my kids! Max, Dakota, Beefy and Chrissie. How could one not love a Lab?? Clearlythe best big dog for a family. Beefy is almost 2 years old and 112 pounds! I now wish I never had him fixed but with pet over-population it was the right thing to do. Love-a-Lab!