When Zipper came at a shelter after being discovered walking the streets as a stray, employees saw that the 8-year-old canine was unique. She’s a nice, sociable, ordinary dog — except she has a malformed jaw, which gives her the most adorable, one-of-a-kind grin.

Zipper’s unique smile appears to have no effect on her, according to employees at Huntsville Animal Services. She eats regularly and enjoys rewards, and she appears to be unaware that she is unusual.

“We don’t know what caused the jaw malformation,” Erin Webb, a volunteer with Huntsville Animal Services, told The Dodo. “We don’t know what caused it. She does have a massive underbite and her teeth are really far apart.”

Zipper was most likely an outdoor dog her whole life and was not adequately cared for, based on her condition when she came at the shelter. She has considerable fur loss as a result of flea allergies, and she looks to have had multiple litters of puppies in the past. She may have been discarded because she was no longer desired or needed, but her new shelter family recognizes how precious she is and can’t wait to help her find a forever home.

Zipper may appear different from other canines…

… yet when you see her unique grin, you can’t help but want to get to know her.

“Because she is an aging dog, she is a quiet and kind girl,” Webb explained. “She appears to enjoy cuddling over travels.” She enjoys going outside with the other dogs and has made friends with Mr. Mike, our other old dog.”

Zipper gets along well with other dogs and appears to get along well with youngsters. She has a really nice, gentle personality and would likely do well in a variety of families, according to the shelter. Zipper has most likely had a difficult life, and now she’s searching for a place to retire with a family that will embrace her for who she is.