The Effect of a Complementary Feed Mixture on Nutrient Digestibility Coefficients and Fermentation Processes in Dogs

Effect of a complementary feed mixture on nutrient digestibility coefficients and fermentation processes in dogs
Study conducted within project POIR.01.01.01-00-1138/18: “Development of a method ensuring comprehensive regulation of the proper functioning of anal glands in dogs.”
Objective. To characterize the chemical composition of two dosage forms of complementary feed mixtures (MPU)—a soft chew and a pellet—and to assess their effects on in vitro intestinal fermentation (gas test: gas production, volatile fatty acid profile, ammoniacal nitrogen, pH, loss of organic matter) and on apparent digestibility coefficients in dogs (indicator method). In addition, relationships were examined between fecal constituents and digestibility versus fermentation indices.
Formulation. Both recipes were centered on fiber fractions derived from Jerusalem artichoke, beet pulp, and chicory grits, and were further enriched with detoxifying components, plant extracts, herbs, and sources of omega-3 fatty acids (krill meal, fish oil).
Design. The study comprised two phases: a baseline period without MPU (maintenance diet only) and a 3-month feeding period with MPU administered alongside the unchanged dry and wet maintenance diet, rationed to energy requirements; MPU doses were calculated per kilogram of body mass.
Results. MPU did not impair digestibility of the principal nutrient fractions. By contrast, fermentation was favorably modulated: fecal pH and ammoniacal nitrogen decreased, while gas production and the synthesis of SCFA/VFA increased.
Conclusion. MPU can beneficially shape the canine intestinal milieu via microbiota-mediated effects without compromising nutrient utilization, supporting its safe inclusion as a functional additive to everyday diets.