Canine anatomy, so similar and different at the same time from that of the human being, is and has been throughout history the protagonist of numerous studies. Experts have shown us the wonders of the functioning of the body of this animal, which has great strength and agility. The legs are one of its most striking parts; below we name some interesting curiosities about them.
- Your fingers support your weight. Unlike people, dogs are digitigrade animals; that is, they support their body weight on their toes, rather than using their heels to do so.They are made up of five components: claws, metacarpal pad, carpal pad, pads and spur. Each one fulfills a certain function.
- Differences between the pads. The metacarpal and pads protect the bones and joints of the legs from strong impacts, while the carpal pad functions as a brake, allowing the dog to walk on slippery or sloping floors.
- The Newfoundland is the breed with the longest fingers. Second is the Labrador Retriever.
- The spur is believed to have been an ancient thumb. It is said that this toe was lost during the process of evolution, until today it is located on the back of the legs. Some breeds such as the Spanish Mastiff or the Pyrenean Shepherd have two.
- They have great sensitivity. For this reason, it is recommended to massage our dog's legs, first rubbing the pads and then each finger individually, thus stimulating their circulation. It helps them relax and release tension, which is especially important for women. hooves of dogs.
- The pads have sweat glands. Dogs perspire through their outer layer, helping to cool the animal's body and preventing the soles of the legs from drying out.