Bentley Onyx is the kind of dog who instantly puts you at ease. When you call his name, he tilts his head, his deep, soulful eyes meeting yours with a quiet curiosity. His furrowed brow, with wrinkles that never quite smooth out, gives him a look of thoughtful concern. After a moment, he moves gently toward you, his tail wagging softly, ready to greet you with his calm, steady presence.
When we first met Bentley, it was hard not to smile at his round, potato-like frame and shiny black coat, though his dry, rough elbows hinted at the maturity of an older dog. But it was his eyes that truly stayed with us. They carry the weight of a dog who's known loss but hasn't let it harden him. On walks, Bentley is nice and composed, his tail wagging a little faster with every passerby. He gently steers toward them, eager to offer his signature sweet hello. Even amidst the chaos of the shelter, where barking can be incessant at times, Bentley keeps his cool.
When invited to play, Bentley tilted his head, considering the moment with his characteristic thoughtfulness. Then, with gentle curiosity, he nosed through our hair, making us laugh. A moment later, he offered a tentative play bow, his tail wagging softly, waiting to see what might happen next. Instead, we asked him to sit-and he did, happily. He gave us a paw, then lay down, his trust quietly building as he relaxed into our company.
Bentley's playful side is as endearing as his calm nature. He loves chasing after a ball, though sometimes he'll pause mid-chase, deciding it's more entertaining to watch you fetch it instead. It's these little moments-a mix of playfulness and quiet charm-that make him so special.
Bentley's history tells of a dog deeply loyal to his people. Though life has brought change, he remains steadfast and kind, longing for the stability of a home. He thrives on routine, a soft bed for his weary elbows, and the companionship of someone who will enjoy strolling with him on walks, though occasionally the young buck in him will want that squirrel!
While Bentley may prefer to be the only dog in his home, he's shown he can coexist politely with other dogs who respect his boundaries.
Bentley Onyx is more than a pet-he's a comforting presence and a loyal companion who will enrich your life in ways only a dog like him can. If you're ready to offer Bentley the love and stability he's been waiting for, he's ready to meet you. Could you be the one to give him the home he so deeply deserves?
Bentley Onyx is eligible for an Adoption Audition! What is an Adoption Audition? It's a 5-day, no-strings-attached, trial adoption period. Interested? Come to the shelter any time during open hours and talk to one of our Customer Care staff!
Be sure to check the "shelter information" box on the listing to see if the pet is located at our Fairfax Campus (4500 West Ox Road, Fairfax) or our Lorton Campus (8875 Lorton Road, Lorton). Then, come in during our open hours! Both of our locations are open Tuesdays and Wednesdays 12-5 p.m., Thursdays and Fridays 12-7 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays 11 a.m.-5 p.m. For more information on our adoption process, including requirements and fees, visit: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/animalshelter/adopt
