Ranger the German Shepherd was born as the runt of his litter. When Phoenix woman Shelby Mayo adopted him, she knew he was going to be smaller than the rest of his siblings.

However, Shelby got worried when Ranger lost his appetite and started looking sickly and weak within the next few months.

Source: ranger_thegshepherd/Instagram

Ranger was taken to the vet where he was found to be suffering from a parasitic infection. Initially, Shelby thought that Ranger was ill because of the parasite.

But she was devastated to learn that his health problems were due to “pituitary dwarfism”, a genetic condition that drastically shortens a pet’s lifespan.

On top of that, Ranger also had nagging thyroid issues.

During the initial stages of his diagnosis, Ranger lost a lot of weight. His skin turned itchy and flaky which caused him to lose most of his fur too.

After careful diagnosis, Ranger was put on “levothyroxine” to help control his symptoms. Later, a medicated soap helped heal his skin too.

Source: ranger_thegshepherd/Instagram

Today, Ranger is 2 years old and he still very much looks like a puppy. He often wonders why he won’t grow up like his two doggie sisters Hazel and Jessie, but that doesn’t stop him from living life to the fullest.

While most victims of pituitary dwarfism don’t live past 5 years, Shelby hopes that with proper care and medication, Ranger will live a long and healthy life. Go Ranger!

Click the video below to watch Ranger’s adorable antics as he refuses to be slowed down by his condition!

Please ‘SHARE' to pass on this story to a friend or family member

Stay for one more story, be sure to check out these Top Trending Stories below:

Lucky Elderly Man Is Greeted Every Day By A “Friend” Who Crawls Out Of The Ice:

We’ve all seen some unique and unlikely friendships over the years, but this one here may take the cake!

One day, a starving otter appeared at an elderly man’s door wanting some food. Ever since, Seppo Laamanen, 65, and Iivari the otter have been inseparable best friends.

Source: StoryTrender/YouTube

It all started when Seppo fed worms and fish to the small and malnourished otter who was clearly looking for food.

After that, the friendly animal repaid the kindness by visiting the man at his home in Punkaharju in easter Finland. This was the start of something special.

Source: StoryTrender/YouTube

There’s no way Seppo could’ve ever imagined it’d all lead to this. This adorably unique friendship is one for the ages, and it’s something you have to see to believe.

There’s nothing like the bond between two friends regardless of the species! 🙂

10 Of The “Most Loyal” Dog Breeds On The Planet

Giving love and support to humans is something that some dogs do better than others.

While many dogs love everyone they meet and are willing to take treats or belly rubs from anyone, the pups we found are just the opposite.

These 10 dogs are some of the most loyal breeds on the planet. They are rock steady in their loyalty to their owner no matter what.

1) Akita

When the American Kennel Club (AKC) lists loyalty to describe the temperament of the Akita, you know they mean business. The beautiful double-coated working dog of Japanese ancestry is considered hardwired in protecting those she loves. They should be socialized with other dogs and people from the time they are puppies. Their silly, fun, but dignified personalities round out the loyal Akita.

Source: NicoMonaco/Flickr

2) Boxer

This working dog is smart, full of energy, and oh so loyal to their family. They get along great with kids and have an innate instinct to protect their pack. He’s a watchdog with a heart of gold who oozes dedication to his owner.

Source: Pierre Pocs Photography/Flickr

3) Skye Terrier

Known as the “small dog with the big ears,” this adorable breed hails from the Scottish Isle of Skye, hence the name. Whether you live in the city or the country, this small dog with a big personality is steadfast in snuggling, playtime, and remaining loyal to his owners.

Source: WaketheSun/Flickr

4) Beagle

This merry hound is friendly, curious and incredibly loyal. While he doesn’t mind the occasional couch potato time, this spunky pooch is energetic and merry. A fun fact about this hound: the breed standard is for 13 inches and under and another in the 13-15 inch category. No matter how you size him, these adorable dogs just want to cling to you.

Source: Simon Hameau/Flickr

5) Shar-Pei

This wrinkly non-sporting breed is standoffish to strangers but very loyal to his owner. His ancient Chinese roots are part of the charm of the Shar-Pei. Regal, strong, and smart, if you want a BFF for life, this loose-skinned pooch may be the right choice for you.

Source: Alessandro Persano/Flickr