He’s extra adorable 💖
Benji has never needed to try very hard to get noticed.
With bright blue eyes and a face unlike any of the other puppies around him, the young rescue dog immediately catches people’s attention. But the feature that makes him look different is also part of what has made so many people fall in love with him.
Benji, a husky and shepherd mix being cared for by Colorado Puppy Rescue, has a condition commonly called a wry bite. His jaw developed asymmetrically, causing his nose to angle slightly to one side while his lower jaw shifts in the opposite direction.
The result is a permanently crooked little smile that gives Benji an unmistakable appearance.
From the rest of his body, there is little to suggest that Benji is different from other puppies of a similar mix. He has soft tan fur, white paws and the energetic personality expected from a young dog. It is only when people see his face that they realize just how unique he is.
To Benji, however, his appearance is completely normal. He was born with his unusual jaw and has spent his entire life that way. He runs, plays and enjoys attention just like other puppies his age.
His rescuers have been keeping a close eye on his health to make sure the jaw does not create unnecessary discomfort. As a precaution, Benji is expected to have several teeth removed that could eventually cause problems. After that procedure, his caregivers believe his unusual bite should mostly remain a cosmetic difference rather than a medical concern.
And while his face may be what draws people in at first, those who spend time with Benji quickly discover that his personality is even more memorable.
He is friendly, affectionate and eager to connect with nearly everyone he meets. According to his caregivers, Benji does well around dogs, cats and children, and he has shown himself to be both intelligent and gentle.
That confidence did not appear overnight.
When Benji first arrived in rescue care, he was reportedly frightened and uncertain. His foster family began including him in everyday activities and bringing him along on outings, allowing him to experience new people, places and situations in a safe environment.
Little by little, Benji began coming out of his shell.
The once-nervous puppy became more relaxed, playful and outgoing. His foster family watched as he transformed into a social dog who enjoys being included and seems happiest when surrounded by people willing to give him attention.
His progress has been so impressive that his caregivers believe his future could involve more than simply becoming a beloved family pet. Because of his calm nature, affectionate personality and enthusiasm for people, they think Benji might eventually have the potential to become a therapy dog.
For the moment, though, there is one important milestone still ahead of him.
Benji is looking for a permanent home.
After growing from a frightened puppy into a confident and loving companion, he is ready for a family that will embrace both his unusual appearance and the big personality behind it.
His crooked smile may be the first thing people notice, but it is Benji’s affectionate, playful spirit that his rescuers hope will convince the right family to make him one of their own.