True or False?

Dogs can have favorite TV shows.

(scroll to the bottom to find the answer!)

October 1 isn’t just another fall day. It’s National Black Dog Day, a holiday created to celebrate black-coated pups and raise awareness about their struggles in shelters. Sadly, darker-colored dogs are often overlooked by adopters, a phenomenon known as Black Dog Syndrome.

The day was founded in 2014 by animal advocate Colleen Paige in honor of her rescue dog, Sailor. Since then, it’s become a way to shine a light on dogs who are every bit as loving, goofy, and loyal, but often face lower adoption rates.

Want to celebrate? If adoption isn’t an option, you can volunteer at a shelter, donate in a black dog’s honor, or simply share their stories. Every wag, cuddle, and happy adoption helps change perceptions, and October 1 is the perfect day to start.

Few dogs are as iconic as the black Labrador retriever. Known for their friendly nature and intelligence, these pups have long been favorites as hunting partners, service dogs, and family companions.

Black Labs generally stand 21–24.5 inches tall and weigh 55–80 pounds, with English Labs tending to be stockier and calmer, while American Labs are leaner and higher energy. Both share trademark traits, such as webbed paws for swimming, otter-like tails for steering in water, and an eagerness to please that makes them highly trainable.

They’re not without quirks: Labs can be a little too social (yes, they’d probably invite a burglar in for snacks) and need daily exercise to avoid mischief. With proper care, including attention to common joint and eye issues, black Labs often live 12 years or more. Loyal, playful, and endlessly devoted, it’s no wonder they remain America’s most popular dogs.

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Black dogs may be overlooked in shelters, but they’ve got plenty of hidden perks that make them unforgettable companions. For one, their coats naturally hide dirt, so they tend to look cleaner between baths. Even their shedding can be a bonus: it shows you exactly where to sweep or vacuum!

Then there’s the “tough dog” advantage. Some people see a black dog and assume they’re intimidating, when in reality they’re usually sweethearts. It can be comforting to know your goofy Labrador might still look like a fierce guardian to strangers, even if he’s just barking at squirrels.

And let’s not forget style points. Black dogs always look sharp. Throw on a bow tie or bandana, and they’re ready to outdress half the room. Think of them as the James Bonds of the canine world: sleek, loyal, and a little mysterious.

From overlooked beauties to silver-screen pups, here’s what’s making tails wag:

• 🖤 10 compelling reasons to adopt a black dog

• 🐾 25 enchanting black dog breeds you’ll adore

• 🎬 40 famous movie dogs who stole the show

Daily Dig is inspired and brought to you by our wonderful dogs. Our dogs, and all the other pups out there, make the world a happier, brighter place. ❤️

With lots of love,

Stitcher, Minnie, & Finnegan 🐾

🦴 A Little Treat

🤔 True or False: True! Many react more to animal sounds than dialogue.

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