Assessment of neonatal viability : the Apgar score

In dogs, perinatal mortality is relatively high, and deaths peak around birth and during the first week of age. Among the several causes, the long process of whelping plays an important role in canine perinatal mortality. Therefore, also in dogs the early neonatal assistance to puppies is mandatory. However, in comparison to humans, knowledge and technological ability in dog neonatology are tremendously scarce. The Apgar score for the newborn viability assessment at birth represent a feasible method for the prompt recognition of newborns that needs special assistance immediately after birth. The five parameters Apgar score, adapted to the canine specie by different studies, advantages and limits, as well as clinical application are presented and discussed.