Meet Ruby: The Fluffy Pit Bull Taking The Internet By Storm

An unusually fluffy rescue dog has captured viral attention this week after her owners shared a picture of her on sharing site Reddit. Ruby, a 1-year-old pit bull, has become an online sensation thanks to her unique appearance. Her fluffy coat, a rarity in the breed, has drawn the admiration of thousands of internet users, showcasing the unexpected beauty that can come from mixed genetics.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) reports that in the U.S., approximately 4.1 million animals are adopted each year, which includes about 2 million dogs and 2.1 million cats. Ruby's story highlights the importance of adopting pets, as millions of animals are waiting for loving homes in shelters across the country.

On Monday, Greta Weber from Asheville, North Carolina, shared pictures of Ruby on Reddit's popular r/rarepuppers forum. The post received over 31,000 upvotes and hundreds of comments, demonstrating the power of social media to bring joy and awareness to unique animals like Ruby. Alongside the caption, "My pittie has a rare recessive long-haired gene that makes her fluffy," the images of Ruby have delighted many, proving that every pet has a story worth sharing.

Ruby's Background: The Rescue Story

Weber shared that they adopted Ruby last September from a local shelter. Initially, the shelter staff believed Ruby to be a mix of Pitbull, Retriever, and Labrador. This classification was understandable, as she displayed features resembling all three breeds. However, out of curiosity, her owners decided to conduct a DNA test to learn more about her genetic makeup.

To their surprise, the DNA results revealed that Ruby is a pure American pit bull terrier. This breed is often misunderstood and carries a stigma due to its historical association with dog fighting. Yet, Ruby embodies the gentle and loyal nature that many pit bulls can exhibit, emphasizing the need to look beyond stereotypes.

The Science Behind Ruby's Fluffiness

When Ruby's DNA test results came back, Weber recalled being taken aback. She said, "I think we googled something like 'how can a Pitbull have long hair?' and that’s when we found that long-haired genes can be recessive and rarely expressed." This revelation sheds light on how unique genetic traits can emerge in seemingly standard breeds.

As more pet owners seek to understand their animals better, DNA testing for pets has surged in popularity. These tests can reveal not only breed composition but also potential health risks and traits. The Global Pet DNA Test Service Market 2022 report indicates that this market is expected to grow significantly, reflecting the increasing interest in pet genetics.

Ruby's Online Fame and Public Reception

Ruby’s unique long coat has attracted considerable attention on social media, where users flocked to express their admiration. Comments like "I didn’t know the cure for my bad day was seeing a fluffy pitbull" reflect the joy and positivity Ruby brings to people's lives. Others have mentioned her “magnificent ear tufts” and even jokingly requested, “I would like 10 puppies, please.”

Weber remarked, "Ruby is the sweetest dog there is." Initially, she felt concerned about the stigma surrounding pit bulls, but after spending time with Ruby and conducting research, she discovered that most of the negative perceptions are unfounded. Ruby loves to cuddle on the couch and enjoys watching Studio Ghibli movies, further showcasing her gentle personality.

The Impact of Ruby's Story

Ruby’s rise to internet fame serves as a reminder of the beauty of rescue pets and the joy they can bring into our lives. As Weber said, "It's so fun watching people get joy out of Ruby." This story not only highlights the importance of adoption but also encourages others to consider the unique traits that can make rescue animals stand out.

In a world where many animals are overlooked, Ruby’s fluffy appearance has captured hearts and opened discussions about breed stereotypes. Her story encourages potential pet owners to look beyond the surface and consider adopting a furry friend who may just turn out to be extraordinary.