Jaws Drop at Incredibly Rare Dog Breed: 'Unique'

A rare breed variation has been captivating canine enthusiasts after pictures were shared online.

SP is a colorpoint dachshund mix, and lives with his owner in Wyoming. His fur color is akin to that of a Siamese cat, giving him a stand-out look.

"I've been following this unique coloration since the first stray puppy back in 2009," SP's owner, who wanted to remain anonymous, told Newsweek. "I have a passion for studying animal genetics and colors; it just fascinates me."

SP's coloration results from a form of partial albinism that comes from a mutation affecting the enzyme tyrosinase, which is involved in melanin production. The mutated enzyme is thermolabile, and as a result fails to work at normal body temperatures, restricting dark pigment to the coldest parts of the body like the face, ears, feet, tail and scrotum.

While rare, the coat coloration can be observed in other animals too, including rabbits, rats, sheep, guinea pigs and horses.

When she lost her beloved Siamese cat, the owner was given the opportunity to bring SP into the family.

"It felt like it was meant to be," she said. "They have the exact same personality, I wish they could have met they'd have been great friends."

Describing SP as sweet, goofy and a tad clumsy, the owner said that the dog brings joy and warmth to their home.

"You can't have a bad day with him around," the owner said. "He's very soft as well, usually one of the first things people notice after petting him."

The owner shared pictures of SP on Reddit's popular r/rarepuppers subreddit where he has captured attention for his unusual looks.

"He's gorgeous," said one commenter. "I've never seen a dog like him before."

Another Reddit user said: "What a handsome and extremely rare pupper! That's super fascinating and I've never heard of colorpoint in dogs before!"

Another dog lover even pointed out that SP was "part of puppy history," thanks to his unusual looks.

Nevertheless, SP's owner first and foremost sees him as her pet, and loves him and all of his quirks.

"I call him my naphound because once he gets his energy out he just wants to cuddle up next to you and nap," she said. "When he was a puppy during potty training he would get so offended when I woke him up in the morning to go outside, he'd have rather slept in!"

Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.com with some details about your best friend and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.