Meet Enzo, a golden retriever that is different in appearance compared to others due to a rare genetic mutation, which also known as pigmented somatic cell mutation. This mutation has caused a large black splotch around one of his eye area. Despite this mutation, Enzo is just like a typical golden puppy when he was around 2 years old. He loves to play, meet new people, nap, not letting his appearance to change himself .
“Golden retrievers are born with a base black coat, with a ‘modifier gene’ that turns them golden,” Ella Castro, Enzo’s mom, told The Dodo. “Almost every dog has this modifier. Enzo has a little stumble in his DNA that erased it on that one part of his face.”
Enzo’s condition is very rare to see, making him incredibly unique-looking and special for his breed.
“This is a rare coat color mutation, typically resulting in patches of very darkly-colored hair,” Dr. Christopher Reeder of BluePearl Veterinary Partners told The Dodo. “Other than coat color change and making a very interesting patterned animal, this appears to have no other ill effects. Just about any breed of dog can be affected.”
While Enzo might be different compared to others, he actually has absolutely no idea that he’s special and mingle well with others! Even though people are always curious about Enzo and his splotchy face, Enzo is super friendly with them, trying to make a good relationship with everyone.
“Most people don’t know he’s a golden,” Castro said. “They often ask his breed and say they assumed he was a mutt, because goldens are solid colored. He’s a very friendly dog. He loves to greet joggers and bikers and other dogs, and definitely seems to take personal offense any time anyone is too busy to say hello.”
Another special thing about Enzo is that he’s actually very, very big for his age.
“People are also blown away by his size,” Castro said. “He’s at the top end of his size bracket. I’ve had people ask if he’s 5 or 6 months, when he’s barely 13 weeks old.”
While he may look a little different, Enzo is still just like any other puppy, and his family will always love him for exactly who he is.
We love you too Enzo!
