Did you know that statistics show most people are more intimidated by black dogs, regardless of their size or breed?
Black Dog Syndrome also known as BDS, is a phenomenon in pet adoption in which black dogs are ignored in favour of light-colored ones. Observed by shelters and rescue groups across the world, BDS is an issue negatively affecting the adoption rates of black pets.
Movies and television shows often portray big, black dogs as aggressive and intimidating, which could also convince potential adopters to avoid them.
Some believe it could come down to how photogenic dogs are. Notoriously, black dogs do not photograph well. Lighter-coloured dogs, on the other hand, do. When shelters or rescues photograph their adoptable animals to post on their social media, lighter-coloured dogs may have the upper hand.
A 2013 study by physiologists revealed that people find images of black dogs scarier than photos of yellow or brown dogs – respondents rated the dark-furred animals less adoptable, less friendly, and more intimidating.
It might also come down to facial expressions. People attach to dogs when they can read their facial expressions, and on black dogs those are harder to make out. You can barely see their eyebrows, and it becomes harder to humanise them and connect on an emotional level.
Adopting a black dog is a surefire way for you to help those wonderful souls find forever homes!
Black dogs are NO DIFFERENT than dogs of other colours. They act the same, provide the same amount of love, and give just as many kisses!