Black Shelter Dogs Need Your Support

By Jessica Bush

Did you know that black dogs are often overlooked in shelters? This phenomenon is so common that it even has a name: Black Dog Syndrome. It happens for a variety of reasons, including the perception that black dogs don’t photograph well for online profiles. Many rescue organizations in the United States have even founded clubs or groups to help educate their communities about common misconceptions, such as the notion that black dogs are more aggressive.

As a way to encourage adoptions, the Black Dog Club of the Animal Rescue League of Iowa offers T-shirts and coffee mugs with the slogan: “I like my coffee like I like my dog: black and sweet.” In the simplest terms, Stacey Norwood of the Greater Birmingham Humane Society of Birmingham, Ala., says, "As an adopter, you have the power to make a real difference in the life of a black shelter dog -- a dog often slighted by other adopters in favor of a more colorful companion." So the next time you see that friend of yours with the black rescue mutt, congratulate them on making a wise choice.