• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
DogsBestLife.com logo

Dog's Best Life

The information you need to keep your dog happy, healthy, playful and loyal.

  • Top Stories
  • Blog
  • What We Do
  • About Us
  • Contact Us

Combat Black Dog Syndrome

Posted January 2, 2017

 

By Karen A. Soukiasian

Regrettably, Black Dog Syndrome is quite real. Figures from shelters and rescues confirm more black dogs are surrendered and euthanized than any other color or combination of colors no matter the breed or temperament.

black dog syndrome

Unfortunately, the majority of people looking for a new puppy or dog will gravitate away from a dog with a sweet disposition and reasonable energy level, to a more uncertain type of dog, simply because it is black!

It is thought most people shy away from them for the following peculiar reasons.

There is nothing unique about them. It’s too ordinary. It’s just a black dog. What they are really thinking is, “Who will notice “ME,” if I’m walking a plain, black dog?”

A few are superstitious and associate them with bad luck or depression.

They look mean, so they probably are! Do they really? It is said, “The eyes are the window to the soul.” Most have the gentlest looking eyes. Do yourself a favor. Look into those eyes, before you turn your back and walk away. They are telling you something you need to see.

Oddly, many an otherwise cogent mother has frantically clutched her children under her arms like a frightened hen, when passing a wonderful dog, simply because the dog was black!

Are you influenced by black dog syndrome? Stop and think about what your behavior is teaching your children. “Stay away from black dogs… they are dangerous!” That type of behavior only perpetuates black dog syndrome.

Black is bad… lighter or white is good. Unfortunately black dog syndrome is reinforced by countless TV shows, books and moves that associate black dogs with aggression, anger and viciousness.

Here is where Hollywood and numerous authors show their bias. Rarely do you see a black canine hero or positive protagonist. They are typically the outlaws. Ever notice, the “bad guys” regularly dress in black, ride a black horse or drive a black car, wear a black hat and own a ferocious, black dog?

They look old, even if they aren’t. True, the grey muzzle does stand out more than on a dog with a lighter coat. But, does that mean all people with light hair look younger than people with dark hair? Salt and pepper on a dog can look just as striking as it does on humans.

Black hair shows up more on furniture and clothing. So what! That happens only if they are light color fabrics.

Keep the dog off the furniture … they don’t belong up there anyway. Get one of those sticky tape rollers and give yourself a quick once over before you leave the house! Keep one in the car, too!

Bottom line: Now that you are mindful of Black Dog Syndrome and the lunacy associated with it; perhaps the next time you are ready to provide a forever home you will consider that black puppy or dog at your local shelter or rescue. Not only will you will be rescuing an exceptionally grateful, loving animal, odds are you will be saving their life too!

Follow Karen A. Soukiasian on Facebook

Save

Save

 

Share this post:

Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Pinterest Share on Email Share on Reddit

Filed Under: Dog Health, Home Page

« Previous Post
Next Post »

Primary Sidebar

Follow Us

Categories

  • Adoption
  • Dog Breeds
  • Dog Facts
  • Dog Fun
  • Dog Grooming
  • Dog Health
  • Dog Inspirations
  • Dog Training
  • Dog Travel
  • Holidays
  • Home Page
  • Puppies
  • Top Stories

Featured Posts

  • Tricolor Australian shepherd in front of white background. Take steps to stop dog pawing.

    Canine body language: What’s your dog saying with his paws?

  • Cute corgi puppy wrapped in a blanket. Talk with your vet about starting your dog on medication to protect him from parasites including flea and tick prevention, as well as heartworm prevention.

    Puppy training 101: 10 tips to prepare your dog for success

  • Thinking of getting a furry friend? Use the DogsBestLife.com perfect dog breed quiz to find the perfect canine companion.

    Take our dog breed quiz to discover the perfect breed for you!

Tags

Outdoor activitiesThanksgivingWaterPetfinder.comWorking dogsPet parentsValentine's DayTwo dogsOld dogsTicksVeterinariantraining tipsSmall dogsPet sitterService dogsYorkshire terrierPandemicPotty trainingPomeranianPit bullRescue dogPuppy-proofVacation dog carePawPuppy kindergartenSheddingPoodleSeparation anxietyRottweilerSocialization

Footer

Quick Links

  • Home
  • Top Stories
  • Blog
  • What We Do
  • About Us
  • Contact Us

Recent Posts

  • Balancing cleanliness and canine comfort: The ultimate guide for dog owners
    Balancing cleanliness and canine comfort is crucial for the well-being of your pet. This guide is for you if you want to achieve this balance. […]
  • The importance of a balanced diet for dogs: Why and how you should care
    Feed your dog a balanced diet with the right mix of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Ensure they get the right amounts to stay healthy. […]
  • Use 5 factors to choose the best veterinarian for your dog
    Research thoroughly and consider location, services, experience, cost, and staff before choosing the right vet for your dog. […]
  • Fight insomnia: 12 tips to help your dog get good sleep
    The most common cause of canine insomnia is pent-up energy. Help your dog sleep all night by ensuring it gets enough exercise. […]

Get Our Newsletter

Get more news to help keep your dog healthy delivered right to your inbox. Sign up for DogsBestLife.com's monthly newsletter.

© Copyright 2023 DogsBestLife.com online magazine · All Rights Reserved · Privacy
Get Our Free Monthly Newsletter

Get more news to help keep your dog healthy delivered right to your inbox. Sign up for DogsBestLife.com's monthly newsletter.