Picasso and Newt, two remarkable dogs with severe facial deformities, have become best friends, proving that love transcends physical appearances and challenges. Picasso, a five-year-old dog, was born with a crooked nose, while Newt, only one year old, was born without an upper jaw after his mother bit him as a puppy. Despite these severe physical challenges, the bond between the two canines is unbreakable, and their lives together are filled with love, joy, and companionship.
Liesl Wilhardt, the founder and director of Lovable Dog Rescue, has witnessed the strength of their connection firsthand. Liesl, 53, first met Picasso in 2017 when she took him in after his brother tragically passed away. She later adopted Newt in 2021, and from the moment they met, it was clear that the two dogs shared a deep bond. Their relationship quickly blossomed, and the pair became inseparable.
Picasso’s physical condition has always been challenging. Born with a crooked nose, he had a difficult start in life. Liesl recalls how it was a miracle that Picasso survived as a newborn, as he struggled even to nurse from his mother. His deformity made it harder for him to breathe and eat, yet his determination and resilience allowed him to thrive under Liesl’s care.
Newt, on the other hand, faced a different set of challenges. Born without an upper jaw due to an injury inflicted by his mother when he was a puppy, Newt’s life has been marked by medical issues and difficulties that many other dogs would have struggled to overcome. Despite the significant impact this deformity has on his daily life, Newt has adapted remarkably well. He may not have the upper jaw that most dogs rely on, but that hasn’t stopped him from enjoying life to the fullest.
Though Picasso and Newt both endure daily difficulties due to their deformities and Newt’s ongoing medical issues, they are far from defeated. Their love for one another and the care they receive from Liesl have allowed them to live a fulfilling and joyful life. They’ve learned to navigate their physical limitations and continue to do things that many might not think possible for dogs with their conditions.
“They are not in agony,” Liesl notes. “They have learned to live with their physical limits, and they can accomplish practically anything they want to do.”
One of the most endearing aspects of Picasso and Newt’s relationship is their outgoing and affectionate nature. Both dogs are social and enjoy being around people. They’re quick to seek attention from visitors, often greeting them with wagging tails and eager faces. Their physical appearances may draw curious looks from passersby, but most people quickly realize that the dogs are happy, healthy, and full of life. Some people might stare in confusion at first, trying to understand what they’re witnessing, but after interacting with Picasso and Newt, it’s clear that they are just like any other dogs in many ways—playful, loving, and full of personality.
“They both love people,” says Liesl. “They are outgoing and always ready to make new friends. They love to greet people and get attention, which most people are more than happy to give them.”
While their appearances might be unusual, Picasso and Newt don’t seem to mind. They’ve both adapted to their bodies and learned to navigate the world in their own unique way. Picasso, with his crooked nose, and Newt, with his missing upper jaw, live their lives to the fullest, enjoying each day as it comes. They don’t see their deformities as obstacles—they simply live in the moment, savoring each interaction, each game of tug-of-war, and each moment of companionship.
Liesl, who has watched their bond grow stronger over the years, speaks fondly of their relationship. “From the beginning, Picasso loved Newt because he’s playful and fun, and Newt is a darling,” she says. “Their bond became even stronger as Newt got older. Picasso has always been affectionate, and now that Newt is older, they play together even more.”
In many ways, Picasso and Newt complement each other. Picasso’s steady presence helps ground Newt, while Newt’s playful energy brings out the best in Picasso. The two dogs share a deep connection that transcends their physical appearances and differences. Their bond is a testament to the power of love and friendship, proving that even the most unlikely pairs can form deep and lasting connections.
Liesl describes both dogs as “wonderfully affectionate, cheerful, intelligent, and fun.” They’ve brought so much joy not only to her life but also to the lives of everyone who meets them. Despite their challenges, Picasso and Newt’s love for each other remains unshakable, and their journey together continues to inspire others.
The story of Picasso and Newt is a reminder that love is not based on appearance or perfection. It’s about connection, companionship, and the willingness to accept each other for who we truly are. Picasso and Newt may look different from other dogs, but in their hearts, they are just like any other best friends—sharing joy, comfort, and love every day.
In a world where it’s easy to focus on differences, Picasso and Newt show that even with severe deformities, dogs (and humans) can live fulfilling, meaningful lives. Their story is a powerful message about resilience, acceptance, and the unwavering bond that can form between beings who are truly meant for each other. Their connection proves that no matter what challenges life throws their way, love will always find a way to thrive.
