This Golden Retriever Was Born With A Rare Genetic Mutation

Enzo is not your typical golden retriever.

Joining his family at just two months old, he quickly showed all the usual puppy behaviors: playing, meeting new people, and taking plenty of naps.

However, Enzo stands out from the crowd thanks to a rare genetic quirk.

Source: @mister.enzoviola

A Splash of Color

Unlike most golden retrievers, which have uniformly colored coats, Enzo sports a distinctive black splotch around one eye and down his face.

Source: @mister.enzoviola

This unusual marking is due to a pigmented somatic cell mutation, a rare condition that affects the coat color.

“Golden retrievers are born with a base black coat, with a ‘modifier gene’ that turns them golden,” explains Ella Castro, Enzo’s mom. “Enzo has a little stumble in his DNA that erased it on that one part of his face.”

A Pup Like No Other

Dr. Christopher Reeder from BluePearl Veterinary Partners notes that while this mutation creates an interesting pattern, it has no adverse effects on Enzo’s health.

Source: @mister.enzoviola

This mutation is extremely rare, and it affects only 1 in 900,000 dogs.

This makes Enzo incredibly unique-looking for his breed but just as healthy and spirited as any other dog.

The Life of the Party

Despite his distinctive appearance, Enzo is unaware of his rarity and behaves like any enthusiastic golden retriever.

Castro shares that people often mistake him for a mutt due to his patchy coloring.

Source: @mister.enzoviola

Enzo’s friendly nature makes him a favorite among everyone he meets, whether they are joggers, bikers, or fellow dogs.

“He definitely seems to take personal offense any time anyone is too busy to say hello,” Castro laughs.

A Big Boy

Another surprising aspect of Enzo is his size.

“He’s at the top end of his size bracket,” says Castro.

Source: @mister.enzoviola

Even at 13 weeks old, people often assume he is much older due to his large stature, adding to his unique charm.

Loved Just the Way He Is

Enzo’s family cherishes him not just for his striking looks but for his joyful and loving personality.

Source: @mister.enzoviola

As he continues to grow and explore the world, his family and all who meet him are reminded that beauty comes in many forms.

You can keep up with Enzo and his delightful adventures by following his Instagram account, where his family regularly updates his many fans on his activities and growth.

Enzo’s story is a wonderful example of how the unexpected can bring a special kind of joy and wonder into our lives.

Source: @mister.enzoviola