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Limb development in skeletally-immature large-sized dogs: A radiographic study
Mariana Roccaro1, Alessia Diana1, Nikolina Linta1
1Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
Plos One
|July 23, 2021
Summary
Canine limb development varies significantly by breed, even in similar-sized dogs. This study tracked limb ossification centers (OCs) in large breeds, revealing breed-specific timelines and correlations with body weight.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Anatomy
- Comparative Osteology
- Canine Developmental Biology
Background:
- Existing veterinary literature on canine limb ossification centers (OCs) is outdated and assumes universal applicability across breeds.
- Extreme morphological variability in dogs necessitates updated, breed-specific data on limb development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide current data on limb bone development in skeletally immature, large-sized dogs.
- To investigate the timing of appearance for 18 limb ossification centers (OCs) from 6 to 16 weeks of age.
- To analyze breed-specific differences in limb ossification timing and radiographic measurements.
Main Methods:
- Radiographic examinations were conducted bi-weekly on 54 large-breed dogs (Boxer, German Shepherd, Labrador Retriever, Saarloos Wolfdog, White Swiss Shepherd Dog) from 6 to 16 weeks of age.
- The appearance of 18 limb OCs was recorded, and 14 radiographic measurements were taken.
- Statistical non-parametric tests were used to analyze age, body weight, and breed differences.
Main Results:
- Significant differences in the number of OCs were observed between breeds at 6 and 8 weeks.
- Saarloos Wolfdogs showed earlier OC appearance, while Labrador Retrievers were later; some OCs were delayed in Boxers and Labrador Retrievers compared to literature.
- OC appearance and growth correlated strongly with age and body weight, with notable breed variations, especially in Saarloos Wolfdogs.
Conclusions:
- Limb development, specifically ossification center appearance and growth, exhibits significant breed-specific variations even in dogs of similar size and morphotype.
- The olecranon tuber, patella, and tibial tuberosity displayed the greatest developmental variability.
- Current data challenge the universal validity of existing canine limb ossification timelines.
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