Large breed black dogs looking for a home have it bad, real bad. For a few (mistaken) reasons breeds such as Labrador Retrievers and Doberman Pinschers are regularly overlooked at animal shelters and rescue organizations as people look for a new addition to their family. This phenomenon has been unofficially labeled as 'Black Dog Syndrome.' This bias against large black dogs comes mainly from the portrayal of big black dogs as vicious and aggressive in movies and on television. Also, as everyone knows, many large breed black dogs are in fact used as police, military and guard dogs. However, just because these breeds of dogs can be powerful and trained to guard and attack, doesn't mean that they can't be a loving family companion.

If you stop and look at the breeds that this discrimination can encompass, you will see that they actually include some of the most intelligent and loving breeds available. Just look at some of the breed descriptions below from the American Kennel Club. there are reasons why the military and the police choose some of these breeds to work with. It is called intelligence and train-ability:

<strong>Labrador Retriever</strong> - True Labrador Retriever temperament is as much a hallmark of the breed as the "otter" tail. The ideal disposition is one of a kindly, outgoing, tractable nature; eager to please and non-aggressive towards man or animal. The Labrador has much that appeals to people; his gentle ways, intelligence and adaptability make him an ideal dog.

<strong>Newfoundland</strong> - Sweetness of temperament is the hallmark of the Newfoundland; this is the most important single characteristic of the breed.

<strong>Doberman Pinschers</strong> - Energetic, watchful, determined, alert, fearless, loyal and obedient.

<strong>German Shepherd</strong> - A working <a href="http://www.akc.org/breeds/german_shepherd_dog/"><span style="color: #0000ff;">animal </span></a>with an incorruptible character combined with body and gait suitable for the arduous work that constitutes its primary purpose.

<strong>Belgian Sheepdog</strong> - The Belgian Sheepdog should reflect the qualities of intelligence, courage, alertness and devotion to master. To his inherent aptitude as a guardian of flocks should be added protectiveness of the person and property of his master. He should be watchful, attentive, and always in motion when not under command. In his relationship with humans, he should be observant and vigilant with strangers, but not apprehensive. He should not show fear or shyness. He should not show viciousness by unwarranted or unprovoked attack. With those he knows well, he is most affectionate and friendly, zealous of their attention, and very possessive.

<strong>Tibetan Mastiff </strong>- The <a href="http://www.akc.org/breeds/tibetan_mastiff/"><span style="color: #0000ff;">Tibetan Mastiff</span></a> is a highly intelligent, independent, strong willed and rather reserved dog.

We actually ran across a photo of a dog on <a href="http://www.petfinder.com/index.html"><span style="color: #0000ff;">Petfinder </span></a>a few years ago that really grabbed us. The dog, Bo, was 1-1/2 years old and as we would find out later, the shelter's description did not correctly list his breed. He looked so pathetic in his photo and the shelter went on to describe his "sad story." He appeared int he photo to be about knee height, black and tan and had seriously sad eyes. We were sold. I called the shelter and asked if he was still available. Of course he was, so I told them I would be there on Saturday to pick him up.

Saturday came and my daughter and I loaded into the car and made the 2-1/2 hour drive to get to Battle Creek to pick up our newest member of the family. When we t there we were in for a serious surprise. Let me just tell you, photos can be deceiving. This dog was in fact pathetic looking, for he had been starved almost to death, but to our surprise he was HUGE, as in tall!  I am a 5 foot tall woman, so when this guy stands on his hind legs he is taller than me. I was afraid to take him home. My husband was expecting a much smaller dog. and I have to admit, I was a little intimidated my his fierce appearance.

Lucky for us, we did bring home Bo (much to the chaand found out he is Tibetan Mastiff mix. He is the best, most intelligent, loving dog we have ever had. My daughter literally lays across his body. he is such a gentle giant. We came so close to leaving him at the shelter. Now he is my daughter's best friend. sure, it costs more to feed him, but he is so worth it! Please don't pass up a dog just because of their size and color. You don't know what you might be missing.

Please check out the <a href="http://www.blackpearldogs.com/"><span style="color: #0000ff;">Black Pearl Dogs</span></a> website to search for some dogs in need of a family.

<em>Photo is our baby..."Bo"</em>