Description: Dwarfism results from a deficiency of the growth hormone produced by pituitary gland. It is a common manifestation of hypopituitarism, an umbrella term used when there is an insufficient production of one or more pituitary hormones. Another cause of dwarfism is congenital and believed to be carried by a recessive gene. The congenital form is only manifested when both parents carry the recessive gene. Most dogs with dwarfism appear normal at birth. However, the common signs associated with dwarfism are more noticeable once the dog is already two to three months old. Dwarfism caused by hypopituitarism result in dogs which are small in sizes compared to the normal ones. They tend to retain their puppy coat and gradually develop hair loss or alopecia. There may be skin darkening or hyperpigmentation, absence of permanent teeth, small testicles, absence of estrus in females, infertility, and having a shrill bark. A definitive diagnosis is reached by blood tests, skin biopsy, and endocrine function tests. The line of treatment is aimed at increasing the levels of the specific pituitary hormones by administering hormonal injections. Affected dogs are also neutered upon reaching sexual maturity.

Breeds Commonly Affected: Black Russian Terrier, Vizsla, and Weimaraner