MEASUREMENT OF PULLING STRENGTH DEVELOPED ON CANINE TEETH BY MILITARYDOGS

An original procedure using a load cell with an amplifier, an oscillos cop and a printer, enabled us to measure maximal pulling strength deve lopped by six military dogs during fighting exercises. The maximal pul ling strength measured, with four canine teeth in action, varied from 1000 newtons to 1120 newtons according to the direction in which the d og pulled. The animals pulled in a unique direction, standing on their four limbs, and thus using their total muscular capacity. The pulling strength intensity decreased with repetitive efforts. These results m ay contribute to the elaboration of specifications for prosthetic reco nstitution of canine teeth fractures.