Faces of No-Kill: Shy dog blossoms into dashing suitor

What you’re about to read is a love story, and the romantic lead might feel a bit familiar. He’s known for being aloof, socially awkward, and quietly handsome. If you’re thinking of Mr. Darcy, you’d be correct — but not the one from Pride and Prejudice.

Just like his literary namesake, Mr. Darcy the dog is a bit unpolished in the beginning. But as the story unfolds, he shows just how kind, loving, and loyal he can be.

We don’t know much about Mr. Darcy’s life before he came to the Best Friends Pet Resource Center in Bentonville, Arkansas, from a shelter. (He likely wasn’t an estate owner in the English countryside, but who can say for sure?) The 3-year-old pup had a debonair look, with a white coat, black ears, and a heart-melting smile.

However, Mr. Darcy had his issues. He was very cautious of new people and seemed awkward and unsure around other dogs. But he wasn’t unfriendly; he just didn’t know what to do in social settings.

[Helping a skittish dog learn to trust]

There was a sweet, gentle, and even goofy guy in there, but he was hidden beneath the anxiety. He just needed help to feel safe and loved, so he could gain confidence and become his true self.

Mr. Darcy moved into the administrative office at the pet resource center, which ended up being a pivotal point in his story. He adored spending so much time with people. He would sit on the desk and gaze up at his “co-workers” with a look of pure love.

The team quickly discovered that food was the way to Mr. Darcy’s heart. (Give him a snack, and he’d forget any apprehension he was feeling.) This helped him overcome many of his challenges, including walking on a leash. After lots of practice and peanut butter, he now walks like a gentleman on the leash and can promenade with the best of them.

[Making magic happen for a shy dog]

Time spent in a few different foster homes rounded out his education. He went on hikes to the lake, met all kinds of new people, and learned to feel comfortable around them.

Through all this, the real Mr. Darcy emerged. He was a happy boy who craved affection, loved to play (especially when it involved running through the sprinkler), and enjoyed the company of other dogs.

Then came the best part of the story: Mr. Darcy met his match and went home with his family. Today, he has all the squeaky toys and ear scratches a dog could want. He even has a new love interest: a tabby cat named Raina with whom he shares his home. Best of all, he has people who understand his personality and are dedicated to making him feel happy and safe.

In an update to Best Friends, his adopter writes, “He is up there with one of the absolute greatest dogs I have had the pleasure of loving. We are so blessed to be his family.”

Even Jane Austen couldn’t write a better ending than that.

Our goal at Best Friends is to support all animal shelters in the U.S. in reaching no-kill. No-kill means saving every dog and cat in a shelter who can be saved, accounting for community safety and good quality of life for pets. 

Shelter staff can’t do it alone. Saving animals in shelters is everyone’s responsibility, and it takes support and participation from the community. No-kill is possible when we work together thoughtfully, honestly, and collaboratively.