Not only humans but dogs can also be affected by a genetic defect. “Ranger,” the German Shepherd, has a rare genetic defect that will keep him the size of a puppy for his entire life.
Despite his purebred lineage, Ranger will never grow as large as a fully grown adult dog. This condition affects not only the German Shepherd breed but others as well, albeit less frequently. The disease is known as pituitary dwarfism.
After the mother’s last litter, breeder Shelby Mayo immediately recognized that something was amiss.
Ranger is now a two-year-old German Shepherd the size of a puppy. A rare genetic defect has stunted his growth.
The Heartbreaking Diagnosis and the Dog’s Continuing Life
Naturally, the breeder quickly sought medical assistance, but the diagnosis did not bode well. Initially, a parasite was suspected, hindering growth. Despite intensive treatment, Ranger contracted further infections.
In addition to his dwarfism, an infection on the back of the poor dog became apparent. Initially, doctors suspected a parasitic infection rather than a genetic defect at the start of treatment. Fortunately, the correct diagnosis was eventually made.
Shortly after, Ranger was neutered, but from that point on, the owners noticed significant health problems in Ranger. Besides hair loss and dry skin, the dog visibly lost weight.
Some of Ranger’s Instagram fans, who followed his suffering, warned the owners that Ranger might have a thyroid condition. It’s reassuring to know that animal lovers on the internet are concerned about poor and sick dogs.
A Loving and Regular German Shepherd with Complications
Regrettably, this story is true, not fiction. Multiple veterinarians conducted extensive examinations on Ranger and found that the dog indeed had thyroid issues, which can cause symptoms such as hair loss and a lack of appetite.
Moreover, Ranger, the pituitary dwarf German Shepherd, appears to have above-average health problems. Nevertheless, the poor dog receives the full attention of his owners and is well taken care of by veterinarians.
Additionally, the dog possesses the typical characteristics of a regular German Shepherd, including enjoyment of play, a protective instinct toward his owners, and other qualities. It’s a sad yet intriguing story.
However, Ranger has good prospects for leading a long life.
