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      What is Black Dog Syndrome?

      April 27, 2022 1 min read 9 Comments

      Dogs are perfect, but some have a harder time than others when it comes to adoption. You may have heard of Black Dog Syndrome, but did you know Black dogs in shelters have the lowest adoption rate? They also have the highest euthanasia rate, regardless of their breed.

      BDS is a true phenomenon which has been observed by shelters and rescues over years of data. On average, it takes 4 times longer for a black dog to be adopted vs a lighter colored dog. 

      No one can easily explain the reasoning behind BDS, but there are many psychological theories on why people ignore our darker pups! Here are a few reasons for this unfortunate phenomenon:

      1. They are often perceived as aggressive
      2. Black dog superstitions
      3. Bad photo quality doesn’t show features
      4. Look less friendly

      If you’re looking for a pup, pay extra attention to those black pups because they have just as much love to give but may be struggling to find the right human’s to love them back!  

      While we cannot fix BDS overnight, we can continue to bring awareness to it. This special black dog edition merchandise is dedicated to all the black pups out there waiting for their forever homes!  

      Join us at Grounds & Hounds Coffee Co. in providing a voice for every rescue pup and let's make more tails wag.


      9 Responses

      Ruth Anne
      Ruth Anne

      June 28, 2022

      Black dogs are amazing. My Murray is simply the best. I know we all say that but, he really is! Rescue.

      Courtney
      Courtney

      June 28, 2022

      That’s so sad! I knew that was true of cats, but I didn’t know that about dogs. We’ve had lots of critters growing up on the farm and the black dogs were always the most calm, loyal and friendly. Thanks for making this collection and video!

      Gina
      Gina

      June 28, 2022

      I know that black cats have a much lower adoption rate than other colored cats, but I didn’t know that applies to dogs as well. Thank you for spreading the word about this. My husband and I have had 2 all-black dogs (rescues!), and they were 2 of the best dogs I’ve ever known! Although both are long gone, they will always have a special place in my heart.

      Amie
      Amie

      June 28, 2022

      I have a black “docker.” (Dachshund/Cocker). He is the sweetest boy. If you stop anytime at all, he will sit on your feet. He will lick your leg or foot forever. Yes, it can be difficult to get really good pictures that show his beautiful dark eyes. We adopted him 2 years ago. He is 14 and is on no medication. He sees great and still has his hearing. Love you Bear Octavius.

      Emily
      Emily

      June 28, 2022

      Both our adopted dogs were almost all black and we are fostering a black puppy! Thank you for trying to being light to this issue.

      NS
      NS

      June 28, 2022

      Same as black cats!

      Betsy
      Betsy

      June 28, 2022

      Such a sad thought about how black dogs are looked at differently! We adopted a rescued black lab almost 13 years ago. She has brought so much joy to our lives.

      Michele Townsend
      Michele Townsend

      June 28, 2022

      We love BLACK DOGS! We have two Marco and Polo they are German Short Hair Pointers and are all BLACK! They are the best two dogs in the world.

      Sharon
      Sharon

      June 28, 2022

      I love my black dog. Have always had at least one or two in my packs of dogs, no matter the breed. Presently 2 GoldenDoodles, both born black, one has turned silver but my boy is still black and I love him to pieces, as I do all my pups. People are missing out when they do not have a black dog.

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