PD

"Pituitary dwarfism is suspected based on the dog's breed and clinical signs. German Shepherds are, by far, the most commonly affected breed. Dogs with pituitary dwarfism grow at a much slower rate than normal dogs and do not reach full size. These dogs often keep their puppy coats and may have hair loss on both sides. Skin infections may develop, and changes like skin darkening and scaling can be seen. Dogs with pituitary dwarfism may develop neurological signs later in life. The underlying abnormality causes a cyst to form in the pituitary, which can enlarge and cause neurological abnormalities. Affected dogs can also have incorrect formation of the first two vertebrae (bones in the spine), leading to spinal cord damage. Neurological signs include abnormal behavior, lack of balance, strange gait, neck pain, or a tilted head" (Pituitary Dwarfism in Dogs, n.d.).