The postnatal growth of the limb bone in Great Dane dogs

The postnatal growth of the skeleton of limbs was investigated longitudinal ly in 41 Great Danes (20 males, 21 females) from birth to about two years o f age. Skeletal growth is described by means of externally obtainable, anat omically defined length and width measurements. The biomathematical analyse s of the data were performed by fitting the modified JANOSCHEK growth curve . Growth curves were constructed for population means as well as for indivi dual growth courses. A sexual dimorphism in favour to male dogs can be demo nstrated relatively early in Great Danes. Moreover, percentiles were calculated in order to establish normal growth c harts. With these percentiles, the growth status of individual dogs can be evaluated and their feeding can be adapted if necessary. Size differences a t birth or during growth can disappear by catch-up or temporary stagnation of growth.