Signalment differences in bone mineral content and bone mineral density in canine appendicular bones

Abstract

SummaryThe objective was to determine signalment-related differences in bone mineral content (BMC) and bone mineral density (BMD) in dogs. Unilateral appendicular bones were harvested from 62 canine cadavers. Middiaphyseal regions of interest (ROIs) were scanned using a Hologic® DXA device Braincon, Vienna, Austria). BMC and BMD were calculated within this region. Middle-aged dogs (3 . 10 years) revealed the highest BMC and BMD levels. Mean BMC and BMD were higher in males compared to females. Furthermore, bodyweight of the male dogs was significantly higher compared to the females (P<0.0001). Body weight and bone length were significantly associated with BMC and BMD (P.0.023) in all bones but the radius. These data suggest that BMC and BMD appear to be highest in male large-breed dogs with a body weight greater than 30 kg. These results may help determine risk factors in fracture development and healing.