Black Dog Syndrome

Dogs are a species with many breeds, and due to different human preferences, dogs of different sizes, characteristics, and colors are cultivated. Some dogs have a solid body color, some have stripes, and some have speckles. The colors can be roughly divided into light and dark colors, and one color of dog is particularly unique, which is a dog with a black body color.

In the past, there was a special phenomenon where it was widely believed that black dogs were less accepted and people were unwilling to keep them, hence the name “Black Dog Syndrome”. The approximate origin is unknown, but it is likely to have been a study in the 1990s that suggested that the color of dogs affects people’s preferences, and different colors can affect their likelihood of adoption and purchase. Although the study itself did not state that black dogs are objects of disdain, staff at adoption and rescue centers generally believe that they often encounter “black dog syndrome” and that black dogs are adopted less frequently in shelters.

Does Black Dog Syndrome really exist? I think it may or may not exist, depending on various factors such as the region where you live, social culture, historical legends, etc. A newly published study in 2023 suggests that black dogs do not have longer antelope time, no higher euthanasia rate than other colored dogs, and the color of their fur does not affect their waiting time in shelters for adoption.

Why are black dogs distinguished from other dogs? Let me analyze based on what I have seen in China.

Feudal superstition may be a significant reason. In Europe and America, black cats are considered unlucky messengers of hell, while in China, black dogs possess mysterious and frightening spirituality. Everyone must have heard of Black Dog Blood. It is said that dogs have spirituality and can see things that humans cannot see (personally, I think it is due to electromagnetic, audio, and other factors that can receive frequencies that we cannot receive). Among them, Black Dogs are extremely spiritual, and Black Dog Blood has the function of warding off evil. It is said that Black Dogs are the ultimate yang, so they can restrain evil spirits. Erlang Shen’s Laughing Sky Dog is a black dog, not the shepherd dog in the game.

Secondly, cultural traditions also consider black as inauspicious and associated with death, depression, frustration, and repression. So in literary works, the black dog is often depicted as a negative image. I remember in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, the black dog was considered an unlucky symbol, and Sirius Black was described as the evil and terrifying Big Black Dog.

The strong and aggressive appearance is the reason why many people are afraid of black dogs. Black dogs often have unclear expressions and their eyes are the only thing you can see clearly. They are stronger than other colored dogs and carry more dangerous aura, which can easily cause fear in others. White dogs of the same color may be perceived as clean and cute by people, while black dogs are perceived as dangerous and brave.

Secondly, cultural traditions also consider black as inauspicious and associated with death, depression, frustration, and repression. So in literary works, the black dog is often depicted as a negative image. I remember in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, the black dog was considered an unlucky symbol, and Sirius Black was described as the evil and terrifying Big Black Dog.

The strong and aggressive appearance is the reason why many people are afraid of black dogs. Black dogs often have unclear expressions and their eyes are the only thing you can see clearly. They are stronger than other colored dogs and carry more dangerous aura, which can easily cause fear in others. White dogs of the same color may be perceived as clean and cute by people, while black dogs are perceived as dangerous and brave.

In addition, black dogs tend to look older than their actual age. My friends often say that the hair around their black dog’s mouth has turned white, followed by the hair on their chest, feet, and back. This is somewhat similar to human white hair, which is a natural physiological phenomenon, but it appears very old to humans. As people age, they dye their black hair, and dogs generally do not intentionally dye their black hair, which reduces their likelihood of being adopted.

The last point is that black is really not suitable for photography. The facial expressions of black dogs are difficult to capture by cameras, and they often look like they can’t see anything except for their two shiny eyes. Therefore, black dogs may not be able to attract people through beautiful promotional photos. It has to be said that Transsion phones are very good. They are designed specifically for people with dark skin, so they dominate the African mobile phone market. Remember to use Transsion phones when taking photos for Black Dog next time.

Since black is not actually a factor that affects the adoption of dogs, what are the characteristics that make dogs easy to adopt?

1: Age is definitely the main reason. Puppies are easier to find their owners than adults. Puppies are cute, have not developed habits, are easier to train, and spend more time with their owners.

2: Variety is absolutely the top priority, purebred dogs have more advantages than mixed breed dogs. Most dogs are not known about their personalities before adopting them, and can only be roughly understood through their breeds. Golden Retrievers are easier to be adopted than large yellow earth dogs, although they look similar.

3: Body size is also a key factor, as smaller dogs are more likely to be adopted. Small dogs eat less, require less living space, or have less weight, and can be held close by people. They are the entry-level dogs for many new dog owners, so they are more likely to be adopted. Eating 100 yuan worth of dog food and 400 yuan worth of dog food per month definitely requires careful consideration.

4: Personality, family members, and level of activity are the most important factors for adoptive parents when facing dogs, even surpassing everything before. From the first minute we are together, we can know if there is fate. Some fate is predetermined. When you see each other’s eyes, when she licks her hands and face with her tongue, when she pitifully rubs against your leg, appearance really doesn’t matter.

I encourage friends who plan to adopt a dog, unless you really like a certain breed, adoption may be a good choice. Of course, it is best to have a physical examination before adoption to confirm health, deworming, and complete vaccinations. Don’t let color be your standard for choosing a dog.