[The effect of a different energy supply for growing Great Danes on the body mass and skeletal development. 3. Clinical picture and chemical studies of the skeleton].

In growth studies with young Great Danes (0-6 months old), the effects of ad libitum (nine animals) or restricted feed supply (70-80% of ad libitum supply; 17 dogs, 9 of them bearing additional weight loads, 15% of body weight attached to the shoulder) were investigated with regard to development of the skeleton and bone composition. Growth disturbances of the skeleton were seen in every group, but the incidence increased with ad libitum feeding. Fast growth led to the valgus syndrome in fore- and hindlimbs, while hyperextensions of the carpal joint were seen, independently of the growth intensity. Weight loading in connection with energy restriction could not reproduce the same effects as ad libitum feeding. The mineral and protein concentrations in the bones (related to fat-free dry matter) were not affected either by the different feeding levels or by the weight loading.