The Skeletal Anatomy of the Canine Jaw
Despite the great variation of domestic dog breeds, the jaws of a typical canine (dogs, wolves, coyotes and jackals) are similar in morphology.
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Basics
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In most canines, the maxilla and mandible--the upper and lower jaws, respectively--are elongated. Compared with felines, the jaw of a typical canine is notably longer and proportionately more slender.
Jaw Dentition
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The incisors and canines of dogs are designed for grabbing hold of prey and ripping. The robust carnassials and molars of the rear portion of the jaw grind flesh and vegetation.
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Canine Teeth
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The canine teeth of dogs lock together because the lower canines are a little ahead of the upper ones and there is a gap behind them.
Biting Force
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The African wild dog has substantial biting force. Canines typically have substantial biting force -- which depends not just on jaws, but the skull's anatomy in general. A 2004 analysis published in the Proceedings of the Royal Society estimated the relative biting power of carnivores from 39 taxa and found that African wild dogs had the greatest bite force quotient of the living placental species considered.
Domestic Dogs
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Bulldogs demonstrate the variety in domestic canine jaw shape. Selective breeding has resulted in a variety of domestic dog jaw shapes. Bulldogs, for example, have pronounced mandibles and crushed rostrums (nasal areas)--a reflection of their bull-baiting heritage.
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References
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- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Lynn Newsome Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Cliff Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Jesse CourteManche
