Breed Bias in Adoptions – Why It’s Hurting Dogs and Their Future Homes
When it comes to finding a forever home, not all dogs are given a fair chance. In shelters and rescues around the world, certain breeds are overlooked, misjudged, or even refused adoption opportunities altogether — not because of their individual personalities, but because of preconceived notions tied to their breed or appearance.
This phenomenon, known as breed bias, can have far-reaching and damaging consequences for both the dogs and the humans who might otherwise have been perfect companions for each other.
What Is Breed Bias?
Breed bias occurs when adoption decisions are influenced by stereotypes about a dog’s breed or appearance, rather than by the individual dog’s behaviour, temperament, or needs. This can stem from:
Media portrayal – News stories often sensationalise incidents involving certain breeds, fuelling public fear.
Breed-specific legislation (BSL) – Laws that restrict ownership of certain breeds reinforce the idea that those breeds are inherently dangerous.
Myths and misinformation – Persistent but unfounded beliefs, such as “all greyhounds need to run for hours a day” or “all terriers are aggressive,” can sway decisions.
Which Dogs Are Most Affected?
While any breed can fall victim to bias, some are targeted more than others:
Bull breeds (Staffordshire Bull Terriers, American Pit Bull Terriers, etc.)
Rottweilers and Dobermans
Large shepherd breeds such as German Shepherds or Belgian Malinois
Sighthounds and working breeds misunderstood as “too high energy”
Dogs with certain coat colours or body shapes linked to a “dangerous” stereotype
Sadly, these breeds often languish in shelters for months or years longer than other dogs, even when they are gentle, well-socialised, and eager to please.
The Negative Outcomes of Breed Bias
Breed bias doesn’t just harm the reputation of certain dogs — it has real-life consequences:
1. Longer Shelter Stays
Dogs from stigmatized breeds often wait far longer to be adopted, increasing their stress levels and the cost of their care. Long-term shelter life can lead to behavioural issues simply from lack of a stable home environment.
2. Unnecessary Euthanasia
In overcrowded shelters, dogs who are harder to place are more likely to be euthanised to make space — even when they are healthy and adoptable.
3. Missed Matches
Potential adopters may unknowingly pass over the perfect dog for their lifestyle, simply because of the breed label on the kennel card.
4. Inaccurate Behaviour Expectations
Assumptions about a breed’s behaviour can lead to disappointment or mismatched homes. A “low-energy” breed may have an unusually active individual, while a “high-energy” breed might be surprisingly laid-back.
5. Perpetuation of Stereotypes
Every time a dog is judged solely on breed, it reinforces the false narrative that some dogs are inherently good and others inherently bad.
Why Breed Isn’t the Whole Story
Modern canine science has shown that behaviour is shaped far more by individual temperament, early life experiences, training, and environment than by breed alone. Even among purebreds, personality and energy levels can vary dramatically.
Focusing on the dog’s individual needs rather than a breed label leads to better adoption outcomes, happier dogs, and more satisfied adopters.
How We Can Challenge Breed Bias
Assess the dog, not the label – Use behaviour assessments rather than breed stereotypes to match dogs with homes.
Avoid overemphasising breed – Highlight the dog’s personality, quirks, and habits first.
Push for fair legislation – Campaign against breed-specific laws in favour of evidence-based, breed-neutral approaches to safety.
Lead by example – Adopters and rescues that champion stigmatized breeds help change perceptions for the better.
Every Dog Deserves a Fair Chance
Breed bias robs dogs of opportunities and people of life-changing companionship. By breaking down these stereotypes, we can open the door for more adoptions, reduce shelter overcrowding, and give every dog — no matter their breed or appearance — the chance to find their perfect home.
If you’re considering adoption, take the time to meet the dog in front of you, not the myth that surrounds their breed. You might just find your best friend where you least expect it.