National Black Dog Day is celebrated every year on October 1st, dedicated to celebrating black dogs and raising awareness about the challenges they often face in shelters and rescues.
History of National Black Dog Day
National Black Dog Day was founded by pet and family lifestyle expert Colleen Paige, the same animal advocate behind National Dog Day, National Cat Day, and National Puppy Day. The observance is deeply personal for Paige, inspired by Sailor, a badly injured and traumatized black dog she adopted after shelter staff told her “no one wants a black dog anyway.” Sailor spent 14 happy years with Paige’s family before passing away in October 2014, and Paige created National Black Dog Day both as a tribute to Sailor and to raise awareness of what’s known as “Black Dog Syndrome.”
Black Dog Syndrome refers to the documented tendency for black dogs to be adopted less frequently and euthanized at higher rates than dogs of other colors, often due to unconscious bias, outdated superstitions linking black animals to bad luck, or simply being harder to photograph well in shelter settings. National Black Dog Day aims to challenge these patterns and encourage people to see black dogs for the loving, adoptable companions they are.
How to Celebrate National Black Dog Day
- Consider adopting a black dog from a local shelter or rescue
- If you already have a black dog, spend extra time with them, a new toy, or a special treat
- Share photos and stories of black dogs on social media using #NationalBlackDogDay
- Help dispel myths and stigma associated with black dogs
- Support a reputable animal welfare organization like the ASPCA, which works to support dogs in need nationwide
Fun Facts About National Black Dog Day
- National Black Dog Day was founded in 2011 by Colleen Paige, in tribute to her rescued black dog, Sailor.
- “Black Dog Syndrome” describes the documented tendency for black dogs to be adopted less often and euthanized more frequently than dogs of other colors.
- Some of this bias is believed to stem from old superstitions associating black animals with bad luck or danger.
- Black dogs can also be harder to photograph well in shelter lighting, which some experts believe contributes to lower adoption rates in online listings.
- Colleen Paige has founded several other pet-related observances, including National Dog Day, National Cat Day, and National Puppy Day.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is National Black Dog Day?
National Black Dog Day is celebrated annually on October 1st.
Who founded National Black Dog Day?
Colleen Paige founded the observance in 2011, inspired by her own rescued black dog, Sailor.
What is Black Dog Syndrome?
Black Dog Syndrome refers to the documented pattern of black dogs being adopted less frequently and euthanized at higher rates than dogs of other colors, often linked to unconscious bias and outdated superstitions.