Black dog syndrome

Not to be confused with Black dog (depression).
A rescued BBD (Big Black Dog) from Atlantic Canada

Black dog syndrome or big black dog syndrome is a phenomenon in which black dogs are passed over for adoption in favor of lighter-colored animals.[1] Black cats are similarly reported to be subject to the same phenomenon.[1]

While earlier studies did find some evidence for a lower adoption rate for black dogs, other studies have found that they are actually adopted more quickly than dogs with lighter coat colors. This has led some experts to dismiss black dog syndrome as a 'myth'.[2][3]

  1. ^ a b Cite error: The named reference latimes2008 was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  2. ^ Binkley, Collin. "'Black dog' theory tested". www.spokesman.com. Associated Press. "There’s no firm science to support the existence of Black Dog Syndrome, and some studies have dismissed it as a myth. Maryann Regan, director of shelter operations at the Animal Rescue League of Boston, said she doesn’t see widespread bias against black dogs."
  3. ^ "New Study Finds No Evidence For "Black Dog Syndrome"". www.newswise.com.