The Tampa Tribune published an article today about large black dogs being stereotyped and difficult to adopt out. It's been labeled "Big Black Dog Syndrome" by some shelters. Black dogs are viewed as mean and unapproachable by many people. They're hard to photograph, so don't look as cute and cuddly on rescue websites. To make matters worse, resilient breedslike pit bulls and Labrador retrievers, have large litters and perpetuate the black dog gene. In Rogers, Arkansas, the city's animal services department euthanized 14 dogs last month, thirteen of them black.
Some of the nicest personalities I've met in my life have been big black dogs. My brother had a black Labrador retriever mix named Blessing and she was named appropriately. A sweeter dog hasn't walked this earth. So, this weekend, if you're going to any of the many pet adoption events throughout the state, take a second look at those big black dogs. Look deep into their eyes and connect.
