This is an absolutely beautiful piece of work. You can tell the author put his heart and soul into this. The title caught my eye because I’ve only ever owner black dogs. I could see so many similarities in my Bob, Maylee, and Zoey in the photographs and the shared stories.

The photos in this are absolutely stunning! Each one perfectly showcases how beautiful and majestic black dogs are!

The correlating stories about the dogs feature made me laugh, they made me smile and in some instances they made me cry.

This book is such a worthwhile and empathic dedication to animals who often get overlooked or dismissed due to their colour.

As a dog owner this really struck a cord with me and I feel this would be the perfect read for any animal lover.

What an outstanding way to bring light to a topic that may not be well known. I had heard about the “Black Dog Syndrome” years ago and I thought it was so odd because how could anyone be so critical of such an innocent being. The photographs in this book are phenomenal but the stories that accompanied them had me tearing up. It was so heartwarming to read people’s stories of how their dog has impacted their lives in such tremendous and positive ways. This book is beautiful and I would absolutely recommend it to everyone. I would also like to highlight that I loved how much adopting was mentioned and all the shelters’ names were mentioned.

I picked up this book as a lighthearted break from my normal reading and it was exactly what I was looking for. This book had stunning photos and quirky stories, I even learned more than I anticipated about a niche area. I would recommend this to any dog lover looking for an easy read on a subject they love.

I received this book from the publisher/Netgalley in exchange of an honest review.

This was a stunning, heartbreaking, beautiful book. Featuring over 50 dogs all black (or with a dash of white). From a dog named Blackberry who loves to chase shadows (adorable) to Kendra who donates doggy blood to Wylie and his stick-out tongue that made his owners fall in love with him, to many others. I was just loving each story though some really broke my heart. Many of these dogs haven't had the best start. And quite often it is is because they are black dogs (and then there were also other factors in some cases, like age). Poor things. I am so happy that they found their homes. You could just see the love come through the stories. And I love that we get a page big photograph with each story so you can see the dog! I really wanted to step in and just give them all a hug. Even though my black/tan doggo Coco would probably be jelly if I did, haha.

I would recommend this one!

Black Dogs is a joy of a book for owners and/or lovers of black dogs. Levy's photos are gorgeous and the personality seems to shine through each portrait. dog. I love that these are all rescue or shelter dogs, most of mixed breeds. Our dog is a mixed breed and the best companion ever, so of course I am biased. We've had a black cat and dog, and know they are harder to get adopted. This books makes a great case for choosing a black dog when it's time for a companion. Thanks to NetGalley and publisher for the ARC. Pub Date: Mar 11, 2025.

#BlackDogs

Such a lovely, heartwarming book. These types of photographs were captured marvelously and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience!

This is a short book full of photos of black dogs. Fred Levy shows his talent photographing and sharing brief comments or bios of the dogs. Because these are rescue or shelter dogs most are of mixed breeds. My own black dog was a maltese poodle mix. Black animals in general are harder to get adopted. I love that a book celebrates their beauty and individuality. For dog lovers, especially those with black ones.

This is such a beautiful, heartwarming book. Black Dogs is full of lovely pictures of all different dog breeds and contain little stories about each dog featured. You can absolutely tell that the owners adore their four legged companions. Each owner speaks from the heart and some pages had me welling up and misty eyed.

I’m a lover of dogs and have had little companions of my own in the past and I know how special they can be. This whole book was a love story to dogs and I loved it. I would definitely buy a physical copy of this or gift to friends.

The book was beautifully written. Overall, the book was well written and I did really enjoy it. Thank you for this advance reading copy!

Black Dogs is a perfect coffee table/gift book for dog lovers of all breeds, especially those who understand the impact and importance of rescuing.

It's true that black dogs (and cats!) have a harder time being adopted. There's a lot of cultural nuance and superstition, they sometimes just look 'scary', and they don't always photograph well.. especially in hasty shelter intake photos.

Black Dogs by Fred Levy perfectly showcases the beauty of black dogs in all forms. I really enjoyed the variety of dog breeds featured (although the pittie-lover in me will always advocate for more pitties!). And even more, I enjoyed reading the blurbs about each dog—I love hearing people talk about their pets, and share the little quirks they love so much.

This stunning picture book is a heartfelt celebration of black dogs, weaving together captivating illustrations with a touching story that showcases the beauty, uniqueness, and charm of these often-overlooked canines. The artwork is breathtaking, with rich, vibrant colors and intricate details that bring the dogs to life on every page. From their glossy coats to their expressive eyes, each illustration radiates warmth and character, perfectly complementing the story's themes. The narrative is both simple and profound, introducing readers to a lovable black dog and exploring ideas of companionship, loyalty, and the joy of unconditional love. The book subtly addresses misconceptions about black dogs, gently encouraging readers to see beyond stereotypes and appreciate their individuality. This story is perfect for children and adults alike, with a message that resonates deeply: every dog, regardless of color or breed, has its own unique magic. Whether you're a dog lover or simply enjoy beautifully illustrated picture books, this is one you won’t want to miss. A must-read for anyone who cherishes animals or enjoys heartwarming stories that leave you smiling long after the final page. Thank you NetGalley for allowing me to preview this book.

This book puts a spotlight on an issue close to my heart in the most wonderfully sweet, aesthetic way possible.

My black dog came to me from a shelter, one of a litter of puppies (all black) that the staff were having trouble homing. I hadn't heard of "Black Dog Syndrome" until that point. The staff member who helped with my paperwork told me about it, about how their lovely black surrendered pups were far less likely to find loving homes.

It was so touching to page through this book and read stories like mine, see the faces (captured with such nuance for their personalities!) of pups that look like mine and read their stories of love and friendship.

Black Dogs is comprised of photographs of black dogs and information about them. The author set out to combat black dog syndrome, where black dogs are less likely to be adopted. My family has 2 black labs, so this is near to my heart. The photographs are very sweet and are not washed out like many photos of black dogs. This was such an interesting idea and a great gift for the black dog lovers in your life.

Thanks to Quarto Publishing Group - becker and mayer and NetGalley for an eARC of this book for an honest review.

As someone who has had two black dogs I have a larger than usual soft spot for black dogs. I am aware of the tendency dogs (and cats) with dark coats to be at shelters longer, so I am happy to see photographer taking the chance to use their skills to show off the beautiful details and love that these inky dogs have. Each picture was beautiful and I loved reading each blurb, how could you not love hearing people talk about their dogs?

A beautiful book full of stunning photographs depicting not just these great dogs but also the love that is dog ownership and companionship.

As an owner of a black dog myself, a sweet German Shepherd named Kona, this book tugged at my heart strings. I love dogs, in general, but I have a soft spot for black dogs.

Reading the stories of these sweet pups makes me wish I had land enough to bring home every black dog at our local shelters. I love them all.

Thanks to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group for the ARC to get a sneak peek of these sweet babies!

The only thing missing from this book is that it would be wonderful as a similarly themed series.
Stunning photos of black dogs with such unique personalities.

Adoption Spotlight: Black Dog Syndrome

Part of the dedication states ‘Until all shelters are empty and every pet is in a good home, we all need to keep speaking up for those who can’t.’ It’s heartbreaking that black dogs tend to have such a significantly lower adoption rate.

You get to not only see the beautiful dogs captured but they have an accompanying text about them and what breed/mix they are.

The photography was absolutely breathtaking. Regardless of theme being about black dogs, which could initially be perceived as repetitive and boring, it was far from it! Firstly the posing and guidance of the animals was spectacular. Secondly the lighting and exposures used on the camera settings was top notch.

The Black Labs resonated with me from a childhood pet. The photo reminded me of a professional shoot we had done of him. This book will speak to the dog lover in your life and would make an excellent gift.

I loved that there was an introduction and wrap up spotlighting the non-profit, Labradors and Friends Dog Rescue Group.

I received a free copy of this book from Fred Levy and Quarto Publishing Group – becker & mayer! I am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions are my own.

I have a s soft spot for black dogs, especially large black dogs. I type this while also listening to my two black Great Danes snore. This book is beautiful. The photographs are excellent, showcasing some gorgeous black dogs. The story on each dog and how they found the perfect loving home brought tears to my eyes.

I hope this book will help end black dog syndrome!

Thank you to Net Galley, Quarto Publishing Group, and Becker & Mayer for the DRC! All opinions are my own and are certainly not typed up by the two huge black dogs in my house. ;)

Photographer Fred Levy's heartwarming book shines a spotlight on the beauty and charm of black dogs, aiming to combat Black Dog Syndrome—the unfortunate stigma that makes them harder to adopt. Featuring stunning portraits and touching stories, the book introduces unforgettable dogs like Denver, the protective Labrador; Kendra, a lifesaving German Shepherd; and Frida, a feisty mini Dachshund.

As a black dog owner, I’ve seen this bias firsthand, with people fearing my sweet pup while embracing a similar dog of another color. This book celebrates the unique personalities of black dogs, spreading awareness and challenging misconceptions. Perfect for dog lovers, it’s a tribute to these extraordinary pets who deserve love and recognition.