In a world obsessed with perfection, one little dog is proving that true beauty lies in what makes us different — and sometimes, being “unusual” is exactly what makes you unforgettable.
Meet Chupey: a six-year-old rescue pup with ears that stick straight up, wide-set eyes, patchy fur, and an underbite that reveals a row of quirky, lovable teeth. He might not look like your typical dog, but to his mom Kaley — and the hundreds of thousands who adore him on TikTok and Instagram — Chupey is pure perfection.
“He was born that way,” said Kaley, who lives in Georgia, in an interview with Newsweek.
At first, his name was almost Ed — after the goofy hyena in The Lion King. But as his personality blossomed, Kaley realized he needed a name as unique and full of character as he was. That’s when “Chupey” was born.
His story starts with a bit of uncertainty — but a whole lot of heart.
“Chupey came to live with me because I was deeply involved in dog rescue at the time,” Kaley shared. “This couple had reached out before about a litter of puppies, but hadn’t agreed to spay the mom yet.”
Then came a message that changed everything: one of the puppies looked different and wasn’t growing like the others. Kaley offered to help — on one condition. “I told them I’d take the puppy only if they let me spay the mother. Thankfully, they agreed.”
From the start, it was clear: Chupey was special.
His unique appearance sparked curiosity — even among scientists.
“We don’t know the exact cause,” Kaley explained. “His DNA showed a partial trisomy on chromosome six, but geneticists don’t believe that explains how he looks. More and more, I’m starting to think it’s tied to a congenital pituitary issue.”
The pituitary gland controls growth, metabolism, and other key functions. When it doesn’t develop properly, it can cause unusual traits — just like Chupey’s.
“For the first few years, most of Chupey’s challenges were cosmetic,” Kaley said. “We spent a lot of time at the vet running tests to figure things out.”
Eventually, he was diagnosed with diabetes insipidus, a condition that affects how his body balances water. But with daily medication and a solid care routine, Chupey is thriving.
“He wears sweaters and pajamas in the winter, and we use a lot of sunscreen in the summer,” Kaley said. “But other than that, he’s just like any other dog — maybe even more playful.”
Actually, “playful” might be an understatement.
“All he wants to do is play fetch,” Kaley laughed. “He’ll go until he literally collapses. He has toys hidden all over the house and backyard — and he knows where every single one is.”
That same joyful energy is what’s made Chupey an internet favorite. His videos bring smiles and laughter to thousands. The comment section is filled with love:
“He’s beautiful and I love him,” wrote one TikTok user.
“What a precious cutie,” said another.
For Kaley, Chupey isn’t just a rescue dog with a one-of-a-kind face. He’s a reminder that love, resilience, and a playful heart matter so much more than appearances.
And for the people who follow his story online, Chupey is living proof that what makes us different can be what makes us truly extraordinary.