In numerous species, low birth weight is an important risk factor for neonatal mortality. In the canine species, definition of a low birth weight is complex due to the huge interbreed variability in its size. To identify puppies at higher risk of neonatal death, data from 6,694 puppies (27 breeds, 1,202 litters and 75 French breeding kennels) were collected and analysed. A generalised linear mixed model was fitted and birth weight and size of the breeding kennel were identified as important risk factors for neonatal death. Then, breed specific thresholds for birth weight (associated with higher risk of neonatal death) were identified in 12 breeds using receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis, ranging from 100 to 500 g (area under the ROC >0.70; sensitivity >75%; specificity: 45-68%). The results allow the identification of puppies at higher risk of neonatal death and thus potentially increased productivity in a dog breeding kennel.
展开▼
