Black Dog Syndrome…

Observation: Black Dogs Are Less Likely to Be Adopted

Studies have shown that black dogs stay longer in shelters than dogs of other colors, referred to as "Black Dog Syndrome". This bias can be attributed to various factors, including the perception that black dogs are less approachable or less photogenic in shelter environments. Researchers (Rupp et al., 2024) reference a study published by the BMJ in 2007 highlighting the societal bias against dark-colored animals, which contributes to adoption challenges for black dogs. Helping Paws recognizes the importance of focusing on black dogs and challenging these unfounded stereotypes, promoting education and empathy for all dogs regardless of their coat color.

Myth: Black Dogs Are More Aggressive

• A common myth perpetuated by the media and popular culture is that black dogs are more aggressive or less friendly than dogs of other colors. This myth has no basis, and research from the APA (2021) shows that dogs' temperament is not determined by their coat color but by factors such as breed, environment, and training. Helping Paws challenges this myth by focusing on positive reinforcement training for all dogs, emphasizing black dogs who may be unfairly stigmatized.

Helping Paws Tips for the Black Dog Syndrome: Managing Anxiety with Positive Psychology

• One of the best ways to combat Black Dog Syndrome is to surround black dogs with a supportive community, starting with their adopters and extending to the larger network of trainers, shelters, and fellow pet owners. At Helping Paws, we encourage pet owners to connect with others who are fostering or adopting black dogs.

  When we all work together and support each other, we can challenge the stigma surrounding black dogs and create a more inclusive, compassionate environment.

American Psychological Association (2021). The impact of color bias in dog adoption. Psychology of Animals and Human Interaction. Retrieved from https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2021-80678-001

Cabell, A. (2020). Breaking stereotypes: How media influences perceptions of black dogs. CABI Digital Library. Retrieved from https://www.cabidigitallibrary.org/doi/full/10.5555/20143064420

Rupp, L. H., Schindler-Gmelch, L., Rogge, L., & Berking, M. (2024). Walking the Black Dog: A systematic review and meta-analysis on the effect of walking interventions on depressive symptom severity. Mental Health and Physical Activity, 26. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mhpa.2024.100600