PREDATOR/PREYComparative Anatomy of a Dog and a Rabbit
Commonalities of All Mammals
Have mammary glands Have a single lower jaw Have hair Are endotherms Have a diaphragm Have a four-chambered heart
Dog Characteristics
Smell
Excellent sense of smell. Helps them to sense prey
Eyes
Eyes in Front of Head Allows for depth
perception
Whiskers
Sensitive whiskers Whiskers work with
air currents to pinpoint where prey might be
Touching whiskers closes the dog’s eye for protection
Eyelids
Nictitating membrane acts as third eyelid
Feet
Walk on toes at 90° angle
Paw pads for protection
Maintaining Body Temperature Main cooling is
from panting
Teeth
42 teeth in adult There are four types of
teeth. Incisors are the primary
biting teeth. The canine teeth bite
and tear food. The premolars shear,
grind and mash food. Molars are responsible
for the most rigorous chewing.
Reproduction
Gestation period is 63 days
Only goes into heat (estrus) twice a year so can get pregnant only twice a year
Has an average of 6-8 babies at a time depending on breed
Rabbit Characteristics
Smell Excellent sense of smell. Helps them
to sense predators
Eyes
Eyes on sides of head Allows for two fields
of vision – looking for predators and escape route simultaneously
Poor depth perception
Whiskers Sensitive whiskers
Eyelids
Nictitating membrane acts as third eyelid
Feet
Flat-footed with no foot pads
Use claws for traction
Maintaining Body Temperature Large ears for
temperature control and hearing
Teeth
Two pairs of incisors in upper jaw. One smaller pair behind the larger pair
28 teeth that grow continuously
They have molars and premolars too!
Reproduction
Gestation period is 31 days
Does not go into heat (estrus) so can get pregnant at any time
Has an average of 6-8 babies at a time depending on breed