Deep Pectoral Muscle of the Canine

Full Title: Deep Pectoral Muscle of the Canine

Author: Tania Alich

Date of Publication: January 1, 2017

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Research Paper Text:

The deep pectoral muscle of the canine is one of the muscles in the chest. It is located on each side of the pectorals. Most muscles are attached to bones at both ends by tendons. At one end is what is called the origin. The origin is the more stable position that doesn’t move much when the muscle contracts. The other end of the muscle is where the muscle moves when contracted, and this is called the point of insertion. The origin of the deep pectoral muscle is the sternum and the insertion is the crest of the lesser tubercle of the humerus with some attachment to the greater tubercle of the humerus. 1

The deep pectoral muscle is covered cranially by the superficial pectoral, but is larger and wider than the superficial pectoral muscle. The deep pectoral muscle also extends farther caudally, where it lies immediately subcutaneously. 2

The role of the deep pectoral muscle in movement of the canine is that it adducts the thoracic limb and pulls the limb caudally. 3 This enables the dog to move his front leg inward and toward the rear. The deep pectoral muscle also keeps the front legs under the dog and prevents the legs from splaying out to the sides.

RESOURCES

1. Coville, Thomas, and Joanna M. Bassert. Clinical Anatomy and Physiology Laboratory Manual for Veterinary Technicians. Missouri: Mosby, Inc. 2009. Pg. 192. Print.
2. Coville, Thomas, and Joanna M. Bassert. Clinical Anatomy and Physiology for Veterinary Technicians. Missouri: Mosby, Inc. 2002. Pg. 149. Print.
3. Coville, Thomas, and Joanna M. Bassert. Clinical Anatomy and Physiology for Veterinary Technicians. Missouri: Mosby, Inc. 2002. Pg. 149. Print.