Why Black Dogs Are Adopted Last and How You Can Help

get a bad rap when living in crowded animal shelters. These dark, sleek pups are among the last to be adopted by families, despite having big hearts full of waiting affection.This has led to the

, which occurred on Oct. 1, 2014, AL.com reported. Altogether, black pets are considered the least adoptable in shelters due to a host of stigmas, such as the association of black fur with evil or that these pooches look scary and intimidating. Sometimes, the issue can even be that they don't show up as well in photographs as light-colored dogs, leaving families to skip over them in favor of more photogenic breeds.The event has its own website now, detailing the plight of black dogs and the prejudice they can face at shelters.

is devoted to creating public awareness about these beautiful pups and the joy they can bring to any home around the country.

While the stigmas might sound far-fetched, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals

. But these findings shouldn't dissuade owners from adopting these pooches, as they need loving homes like any other canines.Paw Nation compiled a list of the top

breeds

. Its choices included:

• Rottweilers: These large pooches originated in Germany and, unfortunately, get a bad rap due to their intimidating stature. However, Rottweilers are great family pets and love their owners, acting protective of children when playing outside the house or in dog parks.
• Doberman pinschers: Similar to Rottweilers, Dobermans hail from Germany and have very distinct pointed ears and sleek black coats. Many owners might use these fast, strong pooches as viable guard dogs, but they also love to cuddle up on the couch and nap the day away.
• Newfoundlands: These canines share a striking resemblance to Bernese mountain dogs, except that their coats are practically jet black. Their strong frames make Newfoundlands great lifeguards around the pool, able to jump in and rescue drowning victims in a flash. They even have large enough lungs to swim long distances without tiring.
• Portuguese water dogs: Curly hair and long bodies make these pups stand out among light- and multicolored pooches. The Portugueses' coats are hypoallergenic and non-shedding, making them ideal for families with young children.
• Neapolitan mastiffs: Saggy jowls aren't the only identifying aspect of these mammoth dogs, as they can weigh more than 150 pounds once they reach maturity. Despite their physical stature, Neapolitans love to frolic outside and play with their owners any chance they get.

Once you decide on the right black dog to bring home with you, sign up for a

membership to instantly gain access to an array of supplements and prescription medications that will keep your pooch healthy day in and day out.

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