Meet Dara - a 4-month-old Akita mix puppy with a heart full of love and a bright future ahead of her. Dara and her siblings were left behind in a kennel when their owner was incarcerated, starting life with uncertainty that no puppy deserves. She is still learning that the world can be a safe place - and once she believes that, her personality really starts to shine. She can be timid and fearful at first, especially with new people or environments. But give her a little time, patience, and a calm approach, and you'll get to see the sweetest, funniest side of her. One of her favorite things? Carrying her toys around everywhere - it's adorable and very much her thing. Dara is learning how to "dog" by watching the other dogs around her, and she's doing great. She enjoys being near her people but isn't overly clingy - she'll gently come up and ask for attention and pets in the sweetest, most polite way. She truly is a gentle soul. She is potty trained and crate trained, and she does very well in her crate. She's typically quiet, only speaking up if she needs to go out to potty. Other pets & home considerations: Dog friendly and benefits from confident canine companions Would do best in a home without cats, or with very dog-savvy cats who have their own safe space Does show some resource guarding with food and toys, so a home that understands and can manage this is important Kids & strangers: Dara may not be ready for a busy home with young kids just yet. She has done okay with a calm, older child who gave her space, but she will bark at new people while she's warming up. Slow introductions and patience are key. Dara is still building confidence and learning to trust the world around her. She will thrive in a patient, understanding home that will go at her pace and continue helping her grow. If you're someone who finds joy in watching a shy dog come out of their shell - Dara is going to be incredibly rewarding. ----------------------------------------- If you're interested in adopting, please apply online at mscrescue.org/adopt. Once approved, we'll work with you to ensure it's a great fit-and if it's not, no worries! We'll help you find the right match. All of our dogs are adoption-ready and come: Spayed or neutered Heartworm tested Dewormed Up-to-date on prevention medications Up-to-date on age-appropriate vaccines Microchipped With a coupon for a free Simply Dub collar from Dubdog Designs