Histomorphology of sweat glands in different breeds of dogs

This study examined the histomorphology of sweat glands across various dog breeds, focusing on their structural characteristics and adaptations to environmental needs. Skin samples from 48 dogs representing indigenous and seven breeds (German Shepherd, Labrador Retriever, Dachshund, Beagle, Doberman Pinscher, German Spitz and Pug) were collected from the ventral abdominal region. Using standard histological techniques, histology and the size and distribution of sweat glands were analysed. The results revealed significant variations in gland size and number among different breeds. Breeds like the German Spitz, German Shepherd and Dachshund had the largest sweat gland diameters, suggesting a better capacity for thermoregulation. In contrast, the Pug, Doberman Pinscher and Labrador Retriever had fewer and smaller glands. Dachshund stood out for possessing both the highest number and large-sized glands, while German Spitz had fewer but larger glands, compensating for the lesser number. The types of sweat glands predominating in ventral abdominal regions in dogs were apocrine glands. It was concluded that significant differences existed in the number and size of the sweat glands among different breeds which play a key role in thermoregulation. Keywords: Sweat glands, dogs, breed comparison