Hollywood dogs from popular shows or movies can increase a breeds exposure overnight.
Shelters are on edge following the premiere of “DOG,” a film starring Channing Tatum and three Belgian Malinois who play one dog.
The movie is a heartwarming story, but since Lassie first arrived home, pet enthusiasts have flocked to “celebrity pet” lookalikes and then dumped them in shelters when they didn’t act like the trained film animal.
Years ago, a little puppy named Gracie lip-synced “Yo Quiero Taco Bell,” and Chihuahuas flooded rescue kennels in droves. Chihuahuas were later jammed into purses à la Paris Hilton until they went out of style.
Following the remake of “101 Dalmatians,” the New York Times reported dramatic rises in the number of Dalmatians surrendered to shelters.
After the premiere of “Marmaduke,” shelters prepared for an influx of Great Danes in 2020. When “Marmaduke” first came out, Great Dane rescue organizations set up tables at movie theaters to educate moviegoers about the breed before they rushed out to get one.
Any dog breed, including Great Danes, need a human who can afford to feed it, care for it, train it, understands how to deal with obnoxious behavior, and has a backup plan if the puppy doesn’t work out.
Due to the Game of Thrones, shelters have seen a spike in huskies and German Shepherds.
Northern Inuit dogs, crossbreeds of Huskies, and German Shepherds depicted the direwolves in “Game of Thrones.” The direworlves have a slight resemblance to German Shepherds but a stronger likeness to huskies.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) and other animal-welfare organizations bemoan the link between the direwolf’s popularity and the influx of huskies into shelters, claiming that individuals buy them online without doing any research.
The Hollywood Reporter review of “DOG” states, “If the film is a hit, kennels won’t be able to breed Belgian Malinoises fast enough.”
Reputable breeders are not the target of this statement. Unlicensed backyard breeders will pump out Malinois litters and sell them online for big profits.
Don’t shop for a Husky, German Shepherd, Belgian Malinois, or any breed on Craigslist. Reputable breeders have websites, social media pages, and reviews.
Research a breed before committing to bringing home a new dog or puppy and have realistic expectations.
If you prefer to adopt a new family member, shelters and rescue organizations will help with the background, traits, and quirks of the dog you fall in love with.
