How to Prevent Black Dog Syndrome

If you've never worked at an animal shelter or been involved in rescue--you're probably pretty puzzled at this point. What exactly is "Black Dog Syndrome?" Well, it's a term that refers to the lower adoption rate of larger black or dark-coated dogs at shelters. Also referred to as "Big Black Dog Syndrome," people seem to have a habit of passing up larger black dogs and opting for smaller dogs and ones with lighter coats. This article will show you how to combat this awful syndrome and help find homes for these equally beautiful and loving pets.

Instructions

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      If you've been thinking about adopting a dog from a shelter, strongly consider a medium to large-sized black dog.

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      Look for black mixed breed dogs first; they are more prevalent and have a harder time finding homes than pure breeds. Black lab mixes are probably the most common of all. I have a black lab mix that didn't have much longer at the shelter. My husband picked him out because he seemed really mellow and wasn't jumping around and barking like the other dogs. He brought him home and nicknamed him "Mr. Amazing," because to tell you the truth--there was really nothing special or amazing about him. But he's since turned out to be the greatest--and has certainly lived up to his moniker.

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      Sing the praises of black dogs to people you know who are considering adopting dogs.

      One theory as to why black dogs aren't adopted as frequently is because people are afraid their black hair will show up more. Well, it depends. What if you wear a lot of black or have a lot of dark furniture? Which color is gonna show up more, hmm? It also depends on the coat. Some black dogs may hardly shed at all.

      Another theory on why black dogs have a harder time getting adopted is due to superstitions equating black dogs with death, evil or bad luck (although these superstitions are more commonly held about black cats). In any case, superstitions are just that-superstitions. Tell prospective adopters that doing a good deed (adopting a black dog) should bring them good luck (OK, now it's ME who's being superstitious).

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      Help promote black dogs that are up for adoption at shelters and rescues by posting photos on your Facebook, MySpace and website, or help pass their photos around. Black dogs don't show up as well in pictures and it's harder to see their expression, which is another reason why they are not as easily adopted. You can gussy up a black dog for a photo with a colorful hat, scarf or costume, or perhaps a ball in his mouth or tongue hanging out to help break up the black. Keep in mind that profile shots normally work better than full face and a black dog will show up better with a light background.