Onyx is about 1 year old and weighs 45 pounds, and he is absolutely gorgeous with his shiny black coat. We think he may be a Mountain Cur/Lab mix, but whatever his breed, there's one thing we know for sure — this sweet boy has so much love to give. Unfortunately, Onyx has already been failed twice. He doesn't understand why the people who were supposed to be his forever people didn't stay. Because of that, he can be nervous around strangers, loud voices, and unfamiliar situations. He needs time to trust and feel safe, but once he does, you get to see the incredible dog underneath that uncertainty. And his foster mom says that when Onyx climbs into bed with you, his whole world changes. He melts into the blankets, lets his guard down, and becomes an absolute LOVE. He adores the couch, loves sleeping in bed with his person, and just wants to be close to someone he trusts. Onyx also LOVES cats and does not chase them! He is potty trained and is even learning to pace when he needs to go outside. He willingly goes out to potty, although he is still convinced the doggy door may be a terrifying portal to another dimension. Onyx is a sensitive boy who needs a quiet, patient home. Because loud environments make him nervous, we don't think a home with children would be the right fit for him. His dream home would have someone who is home often, a fenced yard, and another friendly dog who can help show him that the world isn't such a scary place. Most importantly, he needs someone who understands that a scared dog isn't a bad dog — he just needs time to learn that he is finally safe. Please don't choose Onyx because you feel sorry for him. Choose him because you're willing to be the person who proves to him that people can stay. He doesn't need someone to simply “give him a chance.” He needs someone who will celebrate the little victories, be patient through the hard days, and eventually look down at the dog sleeping peacefully beside them and realize that the scared boy they brought home has become their very best friend. Onyx has already been failed twice. We are determined that there will not be a third. Third time's the charm, sweet boy. It has to be. If you think you could be the person Onyx has been waiting for, please apply at bcaaofnj.org.