October 1^st is National Black Dog Day and October 27^th is National Black Cat Day. Is it a coincidence that both dates fall in the same month as Halloween?  I think not! There are a myriad of superstitions associated with this changeable season, and black cat and black dog legends feature prominently – often to the detriment of our dark-haired cats and dogs.

It is well-known folklore that if a black cat crosses your path you will have bad luck, but the black dog issue is a bit more convoluted. If a black dog follows you home it brings good luck (unless it is on a road which brings you bad luck!), and if it follows you home on a rainy day it means more bad luck. More seriously, black dogs often symbolize an imminent death as does the huge black hound in the fictional “Hound of the Baskervilles.” Cerberus, the mythological guardian of Hades, is usually portrayed as a monstrous, three-headed black dog, friendly only with the devil. Large, slavering, black dogs with glowing eyes feature in many horror stories and spooky movies, indicating an almost instinctive belief in the evil nature of black dogs.

But it is not all bad press for black dogs. Some cultures believe that black dogs can see ghosts and bark at night to scare them away. Others believe that if you are traveling at night and see a black dog you should follow it because it may be a guardian dog, leading travelers away from dangerous situations. And if a black dog suddenly appears at your door you will soon meet an old friend. Many dog breeders believe black dogs tend to be the smartest in their breed.

Not to be outdone, black cats have their own share of legends. Dreaming of a black cat is considered lucky, and spotting a single white hair on a black cat is also lucky.  But black cats were whispered to be witch’s familiars and very bad luck.  A black cat lying on a sick person’s bed meant that person would die of their illness. And if a black cat walks away from you it takes your luck with it. Black cats are often associated with black magic and treachery.  Still, in England sailors felt a black cat aboard ship ensured a safe voyage and brides given a black cat on their wedding day would enjoy a happy marriage.

Sadly, while none of these Medieval superstitions have any basis in fact, they may still color our feelings toward our inky cats and dogs today.  Ask any dog or cat breeder or contact any animal shelter about the popularity of black dogs and cats and they will mention the “black dog syndrome” or the “black cat syndrome.” Black puppies and kittens are usually harder to find homes for than their white, brown, striped or spotted siblings. And the animal shelters always have more black dogs and cats looking for new homes than other colors of adoptable pets.

Having a bias against black dogs and cats makes no sense yet it persists in 21^st century thought.  Coat color reveals nothing of an animal’s nature, and if you have been fortunate to live with a black dog or black cat you know just how wonderful these ebony creatures are. It is best to choose a pet based on its’ temperament and how well it fits into your lifestyle, and no matter the color you will have a friend for life.