Fact or myth? Are black dogs less likely to be adopted?

Did you know that around 3.1 million dogs are surrendered to animal shelters every year, and nearly 920,000 of them are euthanized? Sadly, the ratio of euthanization is rapidly increasing. 

We breathe a sigh of relief with all these shocking figures that kind-hearted people adopted approximately 2 million of these dogs. But wait! This is where we witness discrimination that no one likes to talk about. It is widely said that black-colored dogs are less likely to be adopted, which is somehow true, but the reality is a bit different.

According to ASPCA, 32% of black dogs were adopted in 2013, a significant number. But on the other side, shelters are full of dogs with black coats because they are among the most-surrendered pets.

Why are black dogs adopted less often? 

It’s called Black Dog Syndrome, a phenomenon in pet adoption where people are more likely to adopt lighter-colored dogs while ignoring dogs with dark coats due to their fur color.

So, it is not about just ignoring the dogs during adoptions but also about abandoning them at shelters.  

Mysterious

The dogs have mysterious and charming looks, but many shelters and rescues advertise using any available picture, sometimes hiding their unique features. 

So, instead of making a decision based on pictures, pay a visit to the shelter and see all the dogs in person, and you might be more likely to adopt a black dog. 

Most family dogs are black

The Labrador Retriever, German Shepherd, Great Danes, and Poodle have a completely black version. These dogs are considered perfect family dogs, so getting a black Labrador, Poodle, or a Poodle mix such as a Groodle would be wise.

Natural heat absorbers

How about cuddling your fur baby on a chilling cold night and beating the cold weather like a boss? Black color is the natural heat absorber that makes a black dog a perfect companion on a chilly night.

Easy cleanup

Cleaning up after a dog could be a hectic task if your dog has a light-colored coat. But black hair is easier to spot on your sofa, sweater, or carpet. 

Easier to name

You won’t need to waste much time choosing a name for your black dog because you’ll find dozens of creative names that suit both their coat color and their personalities, such as Coal, Blacky, Batman, or Charcoal, among others.

Best guard dogs

Dogs with dark coats have the edge over light-colored dogs. In addition to all the love and affection they shower on you, they also keep the predators away from your premises. Especially at night, they may give faint-hearted predators a heart attack.

By adopting, you save two lives

When you adopt a black dog, you save his life and create space for another dog.

They are very photogenic

There is a misconception that dogs with black coats aren’t attractive, but that assumption is wrong. They are even more photogenic than other dogs. They also make perfect companions whether you need an escort to a Halloween party or other event. 

Save money

You save money when you adopt a dog (of any color) instead of getting one from a breeder. A breeder usually charges between $1,000 and $6,000 for a puppy depending on the breed. In contrast, a dog from a shelter costs you a minimal adoption fee that often covers the costs of vaccinating and spaying or neutering the dog. 

Get and keep a black dog

So, after reading all these facts and figures, we’re sure you take a keen interest in adopting a black dog. And this Christmas season is the best time to do so when most people are getting ready to start the new year with a new pet.

Laura Smith got her first dog when she was 7 and instantly fell in love. To express her immense love for dogs, she started writing about dogs and joined The Dogs Journal. She mostly spends her weekends in a local animal shelter to give a helping hand.

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