Ranger looks like a German Shepherd puppy.
But he is very much an adult.
The Arizona dog was born in 2017 and was still dramatically smaller than a typical
German Shepherd years later.
After his owners noticed that he had stopped growing normally,
Veterinarians determined that Ranger had pituitary dwarfism.
The rare condition affects the pituitary gland and limits production of growth hormones.
It is seen most often in German Shepherds
And can leave affected dogs unusually small while they retain puppy-like coats and proportions.
But Ranger’s story is not simply about having a permanently cute appearance.
His owners have said the condition brought health problems,
Including fur loss, dry skin and hypothyroidism.
He required medication, and they have repeatedly warned people that dwarf German Shepherds should not be intentionally bred simply because they look adorable.
Ranger’s owners have also made an important distinction: while his body stayed small, he matured mentally like any other German Shepherd.
In other words, the puppy face belongs to a full-grown dog.
Sources: The Independent; American Kennel Club; MSD Veterinary Manual; FOX 10 Phoenix.
Would you have guessed Ranger was an adult if you saw him without knowing his story