DOG’S BONES

The skeletons of all mammals provide the solid framework on which the rest of the body is built. The bones of the skull protect the brain, mouth, eyes, nose, and ears. The backbone supprts the heart, lungs, and digestive system. The shoulder blade and hip girdle are the pivots which allow the limb bones to move. Attached to the ends of the bones, there are ligaments and tendons which act like strong elastic to keep them joined together yet moveable. Muscles are also attached to the bones in a complicated system that enables the body to move in all directions. Each bone in the skeleton has characteristics which make it recognizable as belonging to a member of the dog family. The skulls of wolves, dogs (both wild and domestic), and foxes are always long and the teeth large. The neck and the backbone are also relatively long, the ribs form a strong cage to protect the chest, and the long limb bones are adapted for fast running.