Where is the dewlap on a dog? - briefly
The dewlap on a dog is located at the base of the neck, extending from the lower jaw to the chest. It appears as a fold of loose skin that can vary in size and prominence depending on the breed.
Where is the dewlap on a dog? - in detail
The term "dewlap" is more commonly associated with animals like turkeys, chickens, and some reptiles, rather than dogs. In canine anatomy, there is no specific structure called a dewlap. However, dogs do have loose skin around their necks that can sometimes be mistaken for a dewlap.
In many breeds of dogs, particularly those with wrinkled or folded skin such as Bulldogs, Shar-Peis, and Bloodhounds, the skin on the neck area is often more pronounced. This loose skin can hang down in folds, which might superficially resemble a dewlap. In these breeds, the excess skin around the neck is a result of selective breeding over generations to enhance certain physical characteristics.
It's important to note that while this loose skin is a normal feature for some dog breeds, it can also be found in dogs with obesity or age-related changes. In such cases, the skin may become more prominent due to a loss of muscle tone and fat redistribution.
In summary, while dogs do not have a dewlap in the same sense as some other animals, the loose skin around their necks can serve a similar visual purpose, particularly in certain breeds known for their wrinkled or folded skin.