A radiographic study on the development of the antebrachium in Great Dane pups, raised under standardized conditions

Radiographic examination of the antebrachium was performed in 16 healthy Great Danes, raised under standardized conditions, at six-week intervals from 9 to 27 weeks of age. The dogs were fed according to the National Research Council's nutrient requirements of dogs (1974). The development of the secondary ossification centers and the growth in length of the radius and ulna were noted. In the majority of dogs changesin the shape and structure of the distal ulnar metaphysis resembled disturbances in cartilage maturation and bone maturation and remodelling. An improvement in the radiographic appearance of the distal ulnar metaphysis was noted at the age of 27 weeks. It is concluded that the delicate processes that are involved in skeletal development may be frequently disturbed in fast growing, giant-breed dogs, without causing clinical problems