Pituitary dwarfism is a genetic condition caused by a growth hormone deficiency. This hormone is produced by the pituitary gland, hence the name ‘pituitary dwarfism’. Affected puppies may not be noticeably different at birth, but will not grow correctly and can die young.
Affected dogs will be smaller than other dogs of the same breed and may remain puppy like in their appearance. Typically dogs with pituitary dwarfism retain their soft puppy coat, may develop hair loss or have problems with tooth development.