Morphometric description of the larynx in the dog (Canis familiaris)

Abstract

The anatomy of the canine larynx has been described in numerous text books. However there is still a lack of information regarding the most individually variable linear parameters of this organ. Due to a limited number of publications devoted to the morphological structure of the canine larynx in the context of individual variation among dogs, the authors decided to explore this subject. The study material comprised 13 canine larynges obtained from adult male and female dogs. Following dissection, linear measurements and weight were performed. It was demonstrated that the weight and size of the larynx are correlated with the dog’s body weight. The percentage share of the larynx weight in the dog’s body weight ranged between 0.101 and 0.203 %. It was found that parameters presenting the highest variability were: the maximum height of the thyroid cartilage and the maximum width of the epiglottis, whereas the lowest variability was observed with regard to the maximum width of the laryngeal inlet.