Search

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different starch sources on the extrusion process, kibble characteristics and diet palatability for dogs. Seven diets with corn, brown rice, sorghum, potato starch, sweet potato flour, chickpea and pea as the only starch source were evaluated. The dietary inclusion of the starch sources varied between 330.13 and 643.84 g/kg to provide similar starch concentrations in all diets (around 300 g/kg). The conditioning temperature and the volume of water added to the preconditioner during the processing of the diets were measured, and the extruder variables evaluated were knife speed, feed rate, screw speed, amperage and productivity. For the physical characteristics of kibbles, density, size, expansion index and hardness were measured. Porosity variables evaluated were total pore area, average pore area and number of pores. Diet palatability was evaluated in 16 dogs. Six paired palatability tests were performed, in which all diets were compared to the corn diet, with two consecutive days per test, totalling 32 repetitions (16 dogs × 2 days/test). Diets with tubers presented lower kibble density and higher size, expansion index and hardness than the diets with cereals and pulses (p

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of yeast extract on the apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of nutrients, metabolisable energy (ME), and palatability of diet, and on intestinal fermentative products in dogs. In addition, we also evaluated the ATTD and ME of yeast extract in dogs. Four diets containing 0, 40, 80, and 120 g/kg of yeast extract were evaluated. Diet digestibility, faecal characteristics, and intestinal fermentative products were evaluated in 12 adult Beagle dogs distributed in a randomised block design, with two periods of 10 days each. Yeast extract digestibility was obtained by regression analysis. Sixteen adult dogs were used for the palatability test to compare the diets: 0 vs. 40 g/kg yeast extract. The yeast extract presented ATTD of dry matter = 77.3%, crude protein (CP) = 55.7%, acid-hydrolysed ether extract (AHEE) = 73.8%, and ME = 4947.3 kcal/kg. There was a linear reduction in ATTD of CP and AHEE in the diets with yeast extract inclusion (p

Pet food companies often use fibres in extruded diets as a strategy to improve intestinal functionality and reduce energy density, but studies evaluating the effect of fibres on the extrusion process, kibble characteristics, and palatability of dog diets are scarce. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of cassava fibre (CA) levels and conventional fibre sources on the extrusion process, kibble characteristics, and palatability of diets. Seven diets were evaluated: control diet (CO), without the inclusion of fibre sources; three diets with increasing levels of CA—4, 8, and 12% (totalling 6.1, 7.2, and 8.3% total dietary fibre—TDF, respectively); diet with 3.8% cellulose (CE); diet with 6% beet pulp (BP); and diet with 3.8% lignocellulose (LC). Diets 12% CA, CE, BP, and LC presented approximately 8.0% TDF. Diet palatability was evaluated in 16 adult beagle dogs in a completely randomised design. Seven paired tests were conducted, with two consecutive days per test, totalling 32 repetitions. Diets with fibre sources had lower kibble density than the CO diet (p = .004). The inclusion of increasing dietary CA levels resulted in a linear increase in the kibble expansion index (p = .0001). Dogs preferred the 12% CA diet to the CO (p = .032) or BP diets (p = .0001). The evaluated insoluble fibre sources resulted in greater expansion and lower density kibbles than the CO diet. Furthermore, 12% of CA positively affected diet palatability in dogs.HIGHLIGHTS Cassava fibre linearly increased the expansion of kibbles. 12% cassava fibre positively affected diet palatability. Diets with fibre sources changed the physical characteristics of kibbles.

Feed additives, such as prebiotics and essential oils, are used in pet foods and can affect digestibility, palatability, and intestinal functionality of dogs. The combined effects of yeast cell wall and oregano essential oil on apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) and palatability of diet, intestinal fermentation products, and fecal microbiota in dogs were analyzed. Eighteen adult dogs were fed for 20 days with three dry extruded diets for adult dogs: control (without the additive), a diet containing 1.5 kg/ton of yeast cell wall and oregano essential oil (1.5YCO), and a diet containing 3.0 kg/ton of yeast cell wall and oregano essential oil (3.0YCO). The inclusion of both levels of YCO reduced the intake ratio. The addition of 3.0YCO reduced the ATTD of dry matter, compared to the control group (p < 0.05). There were greater putrescine and cadaverine concentrations and lower histamine and ammonia (p < 0.05) in the feces of dogs fed 3.0YCO. In addition, fecal odor of dogs fed YCO was less fetid than the control group (p < 0.05). There was greater fecal bacterial diversity in dogs fed with both dietary concentrations of YCO evaluated (p < 0.05). Dogs fed 1.5YCO and 3.0YCO showed higher relative abundance of Blautia and Faecalibacterium and lower abundance of Streptococcus (p < 0.05) in the feces, in comparison to the control group. Given the modulation of microorganisms considered beneficial and the lower fecal concentrations of histamine, phenols, and ammonia, the YCO blend resulted in indicators of improvement of intestinal functionality in dogs.

The supplementation of vitamin E on broiler chicken diets is essential to the prevention of lipid oxidation reactions in the meat and improvement of meat quality. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of different doses of dietary vitamin E on breast meat quality of broiler chickens in the finishing period. Five doses of vitamin E were used (30, 90, 150, 210, and 270 mg/kg feed) in broilers' diets from 42 to 54 d of age. A completely randomized design was conducted, followed by a split-plot, where the vitamin E dose was considered as the whole plot, and broilers’ age at slaughter was the subplot. Breast meat quality was assessed at 4 different ages (45, 48, 51, and 54 d old), using 50 birds per age, totaling 200 birds. Meat quality characteristics evaluated were: pH at 24 h post mortem, color (brightness, redness, and yellowness), water holding capacity, cooking loss, shear force, and lipid peroxidation. There was no interaction between age and dose of vitamin E for meat quality characteristics (P > 0.05). The age at slaughter had a quadratic effect (P

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of pre-farrowing lipid supplementation for three days on performance parameters of sows and piglets and the survival rate of litters. Four hundred hyperprolific sows were randomly distributed in blocks according to their body condition score, weight, and parity order. Three levels of soybean oil were added on top at the time of feed supply and compared to the control treatment. The levels were: 250 mL, 500 mL, and 1,000 mL, in addition to the control that contained only the crude fat present in the feed (5.04%). Sows were weighed and evaluated for their body condition score at the beginning and end of the lactation period, and their piglets were weighed at birth, after 24 h, and at weaning to determine colostrum yield of the sow and daily weight gain of piglets during the lactation period. Survival rate of litters was also evaluated. Weight loss of gilts decreased linearly as the level of supplemented oil increased. The other parameters evaluated were not affected by treatments, suggesting that the supplemented soybean oil was used for growth rather than milk production of gilts. Additionally, it had no effect on the performance of multiparous females. Under the experimental conditions of this study, soybean oil supplementation for gilts in the first three days before farrowing decrease their weight loss but does not change their body condition score, colostrum yield, and performance and survival of their litters.

Abstract Background Direct-fed microbials (DFM), such as Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus licheniformis, may improve gut functionality of the host by favouring non-pathogenic bacteria and reducing the formation of putrefactive compounds. The aim of this study was to assess the nutrient digestibility, faecal characteristics and intestinal-fermentation products in dogs fed diets with Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus licheniformis. Sixteen dogs were randomly divided into two groups. Every eight dogs were fed with the control diet or the diet with the addition of 62.5 g of DFM (B. subtilis and B. licheniformis)/ton. Diets were provided throughout a 20-day adaptation period, followed by 5 days of total faecal collection. Nutrient digestibility and the metabolisable energy of the diets, plus the dogs’ faecal characteristics and intestinal fermentation products were assessed. Results There were no differences in nutrient digestibility (P > 0.05). However, DFM supplementation improved faecal score and resulted in less fetid faeces (P

The aim was to evaluate the effects of yeast probiotic on diet digestibility, fermentative metabolites, and fecal microbiota of dogs submitted to dietary change. Sixteen dogs were divided into two groups of eight dogs each: control, without, and with probiotic, receiving 0.12 g/dog/day of live Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast. The dogs were fed a lower protein and fiber diet for 21 days and then changed to a higher protein and fiber diet until day 49. Yeast supplementation did not statistically influence diet digestibility. The probiotic group had a lower fecal concentration of total biogenic amines (days 21 and 49), ammonia (day 23), and aromatic compounds and a higher fecal concentration of butyrate (p < 0.05). The probiotic group showed a lower dysbiosis index, a higher abundance (p < 0.05) of Bifidobacterium (days 35 and 49) and Turicibacter, and a lower abundance of Lactobacillus and E. coli (p < 0.05). Beta diversity demonstrated a clear differentiation in the gut microbiota between the control and probiotic groups on day 49. The control group showed upregulation in genes related to virulence factors, antibiotic resistance, and osmotic stress. The results indicated that the live yeast evaluated can have beneficial effects on intestinal functionality of dogs.

We aimed to evaluate the effects of an herbal source of choline on the coefficients of total tract apparent digestibility (CTTAD), diet palatability, fecal characteristics, blood variables, liver morphology, and cardiac function of dogs. Sixteen adult dogs were randomly assigned to two groups (n = 8) which were fed two different diets for 45 days: control, containing 0.28% choline chloride 60, and test, containing 0.14% of an herbal source of choline. Feces were collected between days 39 and 44 to determine nutrient CTTAD and fecal characteristics. On days 0 and 45, blood samples were collected and the liver morphology was evaluated. Cardiac function, in turn, was evaluated only on day 45, and the palatability test was performed on two consecutive days (n = 32). There were no changes in nutrient CTTAD, diet palatability, or fecal characteristics of dogs fed the test diet (p > 0.05). However, on day 45, dogs fed the test diet showed lower (p < 0.05) serum total cholesterol, triglycerides, alkaline phosphatase, and alanine aminotransferase when compared to the control group. We concluded that the herbal source of choline can be a possible substitute for choline chloride in dog nutrition.

The objective of this study was to evaluate food palatability, digestibility and blood parameter of dogs fed diets containing increasing levels of spray-dried porcine plasma (SDP). We also aimed to evaluate the SDP digestibility for dogs. We used 36 dogs distributed in 3 experiments. In the digestibility assay (Experiment 1), eight adult Beagles were distributed according to a double Latin square design (4 x 4). The following diets were evaluated: 0, 4, 8, and 12% SDP of diet. In the palatability trial (Experiment 2), 20 adult dogs were used. Diets containing 0 and 4% SDP were pair-wised compared. Blood parameters (Experiment 3) were evaluated in eight adult Beagles. Dogs were fed the diet with 0% for 10 days and then the diet with 12% SDP for further 10 days. Dietary SDP inclusion promoted a linear increase (P0.05). In conclusion, SDP shows high digestibility of CP and DM, being feasible its use in diets for dogs. However, it is important to study the effects of inclusion levels lower than 4%, in order to do not compromise diet palatability.

There is a growing demand for alternative protein sources in dog nutrition due to the high cost of the ingredient. Spray-dried egg (SDE) is a potential protein source in this context. The objective of this study was to evaluate the digestibility, palatability, and blood profile of diets containing different amounts of spray-dried egg (SDE) and the blood parameters of dogs fed these diets. For the study of digestibility and faecal quality (Experiment 1), eight Beagles were distributed in a double Latin square design (4X4), with four treatments (0, 4, 8, and 12% SDE) and four periods, totalling eight repetitions per treatment. In experiment 2, to evaluate palatability, 20 dogs were presented with two diets: 0% SDE vs 4% SDE. To evaluate the haematological factors (Experiment 3), eight dogs were maintained in a single group and were initially fed a control diet (0%SDE) for 10 days, followed by a diet containing 12% SDE for 10 days. In Experiment 1, a linear increase was found in the coefficients of total tract apparent digestibility (CTTAD) of dry matter (DM) and crude protein (CP) and in the metabolisable energy (ME) as the level of SDE was increased in the diet. The CTTAD of DM and CP in SDE and the ME obtained by regression analysis were 93.6%, 91.3%, and 5738.9 kcal kg-1, respectively, demonstrating that SDE is a highly digestible protein source for dogs. There were no changes in the stool characteristics of dogs fed SDE. The results of Experiment 2 indicate that the dogs preferred the diet that included 4% SDE. In the haematological study (Experiment 3), increases in albumin, red blood cells, haemoglobin, and total circulating protein were observed, with no change in the other histological variables. The inclusion of SDE improved the digestibility and palatability of the diet and increased the albumin content, red blood cell count, haemoglobin level, and total protein level without changing the faecal characteristics.

Abstract: The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of different soybean meal particle sizes in pelleted or mash diets on broiler performance. A total of 1,440 male Cobb500 broilers, with 1 to 35 days of age, were evaluated. The experimental design was completely randomized, in a 2x4 factorial arrangement, consisting of two feed physical forms and four soybean meal particle sizes (625, 775, 1,053, and 1,406 μm), totaling eight treatments, with nine replicates of 20 birds each. Feed intake, weight gain, and feed conversion ratio were evaluated. There was a significant interaction between diet physical form and soybean meal particle size. From 1 to 21 days of age, the lowest feed intake and weight gain values were obtained with the mash diet containing 1,406 μm soybean meal particle size. From 1 to 35 days of age, the greatest weight gain is achieved when broilers are fed the pelleted diet with 1,406 μm soybean meal particle size.

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to evaluate increasing levels of dried apple pomace on cat diets and its effects on the apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of nutrients and diet metabolizable energy (ME) and palatability. Fecal characteristics of cats were also evaluated. Four experimental diets were produced to contain 0, 30, 60, and 90 g kg−1 of dried apple pomace. Two experiments were carried out. In experiment 1, the diets were offered to twelve adult cats distributed in a completely randomized block design (n = 6). Two evaluation periods (blocks) of 11 days were used to analyze diet digestibility and fecal characteristics. In experiment 2, the palatability of diets containing 0 (control) vs. 90 g kg−1 of dried apple pomace was compared using 20 adult cats on two consecutive days (n = 40). Increasing dietary dried apple pomace levels (0-90 g kg−1) linearly reduced the ATTD of crude protein (834.0-798.0 g kg−1 of dry matter) and ME (4290.1-4161.0 kcal). There was a quadratic effect of the increasing dried apple pomace levels on the ATTD of the other nutrients, as well as on fecal dry matter (fDM) content and output. The dietary inclusion of 90 g kg−1 of dried apple pomace promoted a greater intake ratio (0.61) in relation to the control diet. The inclusion of up to 90 g kg−1 of dried apple pomace reduces diet digestibility, ME, and fDM of cats. However, it improves diet palatability. These results indicate that the dried apple pomace is a palatable fibrous component and its inclusion can be used to reduce the energy content of cat foods.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the digestibility and palatability of an isolated porcine protein (IPP) for adult dogs. In the digestibility assay, eight adult Beagle dogs were distributed in a double Latin square (4 × 4) experimental design. Diets containing 0, 100, 200, or 300 g IPP/kg were offered. Diets (0–300 g IPP/kg) presented 229.6–265.3 g/kg crude protein (CP) and 17.59–18.73 MJ/kg metabolisable energy (ME). The apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of diets and of the IPP were evaluated by analysis of regression. For the palatability test, diets containing 0 and 300 g IPP/kg were compared using 16 adult dogs. Dry matter (DM) and CP ATTD and the ME content of the IPP were determined as 99.2%, 86.4% and 22.48 MJ/kg, respectively. Faecal DM (424–342 g/kg) and pH (6.86–5.98) were linearly reduced (p .05). Lower intake ratio was obtained with the diet with 300 g IPP/kg, compared with the diet with 0 g IPP/kg (p

This study aimed to determine the differences among four dog breeds as to food selectivity, choice agreement, and the number scores that best evaluate the degree of food choice agreement. For that, 115 food preference tests were analyzed. In each of those tests, 20 dogs were used (eight Beagles, four Labradors, four Siberian Huskies, and four Basset Hounds), in two evaluation days. The medians of intake difference between two diets were calculated for days one, two, and for both days to determine if there were selectivity difference among breeds. A randomized block experimental design was applied, and medians were submitted to the test of Friedmann. Food choice agreement and the degree of agreement among breeds were evaluated by the kappa index, using two different scales. Basset Hounds were the most selective when two different foods were offered, whereas Labradors were the least selective. When performing food preference tests, Siberian Huskies and Basset Hounds are recommended; however, they must be used individually to prevent that the results of one breed could neutralize those of the other breed. The use of a scale of food preference with three scores is recommended in order to obtain results that are more reliable.

ABSTRACT This study aimed to evaluate the effects of including 200 g kg −1 dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS) to xylanase- and protease-supplemented diets for dogs on kibble properties, digestibility, fecal characteristics, and palatability. Experimental diets consisted of: 0 g kg −1 DDGS without enzymes (0WE), 0 g kg −1 DDGS with xylanase and protease (0XP), 200 g kg −1 DDGS without enzymes (200WE), 200 g kg −1 DDGS with xylanase (200X), 200 g kg −1 DDGS with protease (200P), and 200 g kg −1 DDGS with xylanase and protease (200XP). Kibbles were evaluated for density, extruded size, expansion index, hardness, and uniformity. Six beagle dogs were distributed in a 6×6 Latin square design for analysis of digestibility and fecal characteristics. A palatability assay was also conducted in 16 beagle dogs, comparing the following treatment groups: 0WE vs. 200WE and 0XP vs. 200XP. The results showed that DDGS inclusion had no influence on kibble physical properties and reduced digestibility of dry matter (DM), ether extract after acid hydrolysis, gross energy, and organic matter, regardless of enzyme addition. Moreover, dietary addition of DDGS reduced fecal pH and increased total short-chain fatty acid, acetate, and propionate productions. Fecal odor was increased in dogs fed diets containing DDGS. Regarding palatability, animals preferred diets supplemented with enzymes and without DDGS, and no difference was observed when comparing 0WE and 200WE diets. No changes in the physical properties of kibbles were caused by DDGS inclusion; therefore, it can be used in diet formulation without interfering with the industrial process. Increased production of SCFA and a possible modulation of digestive tract microbiota promoted by DDGS addition may benefit animals. However, at the tested levels, enzymes had no positive effects on diet digestibility. Despite reducing digestibility, DDGS can still be included without enzyme supplementation in low-cost diets for dogs, as nutrient digestibility of the diet remains within acceptable limits for some pet food categories.

Addition of zeolite to caninedietscan improve fecal characteristics, reducing its moisture and odor. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of an increasing dietary inclusion of zeolite on nutrient and energy digestibility, fecal characteristics, and diet palatability for dogsfed diets containing high soybean meal level. Two experiments were performed. The first experiment evaluated the effect of increasing concentrations (0, 10, 20, 30, 40, or 50 g/kg) of zeolite (clinoptilolite) in extruded dog foods on diet digestibility and fecal quality. Six adult dogs were distributed to treatments arranged in a 6 x 6 Latin square design. The second assessed the effect of 20 or 50 g clinoptilolite per kg of diet on food palatability, where in 20 dogs were distributedinto two tests, in a completely randomized experimental design (0 vs.20 g/kg and 0 vs. 50 g/kg zeolite). Despite the small variation, dietary zeolite inclusion reduced diet metabolizable energy content (15.4 to 14.7 MJ/kg, P < 0.05) and the coefficient of total tract apparent digestibility of dry matter (0.773 to 0.740, P < 0.05). Fecal dry matter (fDM) content increased as zeolite concentrations increased (30.4% to 36.1%, P < 0.05), but fecal score had no effect. Zeolite concentrations caused no changes (P > 0.05) in ammonia nitrogen, sialic acid, fecal pH,or diet palatability.The inclusion of up to 50 g natural clinoptilolite per kg of diet increases fDM content, maintains adequate fecal score and has no negative impact on diet palatability.

A glicerina é um coproduto originado da produção de biodiesel, que apresenta possibilidade de uso como fonte energética na nutrição animal. Objetivou-se avaliar os coeficientes de digestibilidade aparente (CDA) e a energia metabolizável (EM) de dietas contendo glicerina, bem como a EM da glicerina em cães. Foram avaliadas quatro dietas contendo crescentes níveis de glicerina: 0%, 3%, 6% e 9%. As dietas foram fornecidas a oito cães adultos, os quais foram distribuídos em delineamento Quadrado Latino duplo (4x4). A adição de glicerina aumentou os CDA da matéria seca, energia bruta e a EM, sem afetar os CDA da proteína bruta e dos extrativos não nitrogenados da dieta. Entretanto, resultou em redução no CDA do extrato etéreo da dieta. Embora a adição de glicerina tenha reduzido o teor de matéria seca fecal, não houve efeito sobre o escore das fezes. Dentro dos níveis avaliados, a glicerina pode ser utilizada na dieta como fonte energética altamente disponível para cães.

Using sorghum silage, the effect of roughage/concentrate ratios was evaluated on nutrient intake, digestibility, ruminal parameters and methane production by beef cattle. Three treatments (0, 30 and 60% of concentrate in DM of the diet) were distributed in three Latin squares, with nine animals and three periods. Dry matter intake increased as the grain concentration in diet increased; pH showed opposite behavior. Methane emissions were lower for animals fed the diet exclusively with sorghum silage as compared with those fed 30% of concentrate, but was similar to that of animals receiving 60% of concentrate. Losses of ingested gross energy as methane were reduced by 33% when grain concentration was increased in the diet. Concentrations of propionic and butyric acids were greater in diets with grain concentrate; acetic acid concentration was not affected. Concentrate in diet increases available energy for the metabolism, measured by lower losses of ingested gross energy as ruminal methane.

Objetivou-se avaliar diferentes metodologias de determinação da digestibilidade em cães, alimentados com duas dietas contendo fontes proteicas animal (farinha de vísceras de aves - FVA) e vegetal (farelo de soja - FS). As metodologias avaliadas foram: colheita total de fezes (CTF) e os indicadores cinza insolúvel em ácido (CIA), fibra em detergente ácido (FDA) e fibra bruta (FB). Foram utilizados 8 cães adultos, em delineamento Cross over, em parcela subdividida no tempo (parcela: fontes proteicas; e subparcela: metodologias de digestibilidade). O período experimental foi constituído por cinco dias de adaptação, com cinco dias de colheita total de fezes. A dieta contendo FS apresentou maior CDA da PB, enquanto a dieta contendo FVA apresentou maior CDA dos demais nutrientes e energia metabolizável (EM). Os CDA e EM determinados pela CTF e pelos indicadores não diferiram entre si, podendo ser determinados pelos indicadores FB, FDA e CIA, independentemente da fonte proteica da dieta.The objective was to evaluate different methods of measuring digestibility in dogs fed two diets containing animal (poultry by products - PBP) and vegetable (soybean meal - SBM) protein sources. The methods evaluated were: total fecal collection (TFC) and indicators: acid insoluble ash (AIA), acid detergent fiber (ADF) and crude fiber (CF). Eight dogs were distributed in Cross Over in split plots (plot: sources of protein; subplot: methods for digestibility), fed by five days of adaptation and five days of total fecal collection. The diet containing SBM had a higher ADC of CP, while the diet containing POM showed higher ADC of all nutrients and metabolizable energy (ME). The ADC and ME determined by the TFC and the indicators did not differ. Thus, the ADC of diets in dogs can be determined by TFC and CF, ADF and AIA indicators, regardless of source of dietary protein.

The objective of the present study was to compare the apparent digestibility coefficients of a commercial dog food, fecal consistency and behavior of dogs housed in kennels and metabolic cages. Six adult Beagle dogs were distributed in cross-over experimental design, with six replicates per treatment. Dogs were housed in two environments: metabolic cages and in masonry kennels with solarium. Dogs were fed for a five-day adaptation period, and the five following days were used for total feces collection. Dogs behavior was recorded during a 48-h period, with 10-min intervals. Apparent digestibility coefficients were not different between treatments. However, dogs housed in metabolic cages produced lower weight and more consistent feces as compared with dogs housed in kennels. Dogs spent most of the time sleeping in both housing systems; however, dogs housed in the metabolic cages slept more than those in kennels. Stress-related behaviors (barking, whimpering, stereotypies, etc) were observed for no longer than 15 minutes per day, and were not different between dogs in kennels or in cages. There is no difference in food digestibility evaluated in dogs housed in metabolic cages or kennels; however, dogs kept in metabolic cages eliminate drier feces and spend more time inactive than those kept in kennels.

O experimento foi conduzido com o objetivo de avaliar o efeito da inclusão de ácido linoléico conjugado (CLA) em dietas de suínos dos 65kg de peso vivo até a fase de abate (100kg) sobre desempenho zootécnico, rendimento de corte e características de carcaça. Foram utilizados 200 suínos provenientes do cruzamento industrial JSR x PIC, em igual proporção de sexo. Os tratamentos foram compostos por dietas com (+CLA) e sem (-CLA) adição de CLA. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi completamente casualizado, sendo as características de carcaça avaliadas em esquema fatorial 2x2 (dieta x sexo). Os animais que consumiram CLA apresentaram melhor ganho de peso diário, redução da espessura de toucinho e maior rendimento de carne magra. A retenção de líquidos da carne não apresentou diferença em relação à dieta. Conclui-se, com base nos resultados, que é benéfica a inclusão de CLA na alimentação de suínos em terminação.The proposal of this study was to evaluate the effect of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) supplementation on swine diets, reared from 65kg body weight up to slaughter (100kg body weight) on animal performance, cut yields and carcass traits. Two hundred crossbred pigs (JSR x PIC) were used, half barrows and half gilts. The treatments were diets with (+CLA) and without (-CLA) supplementation of CLA. A completely randomly experimental design was used, and for the carcass traits and cut yield it was a 2x2 factorial design (diet and sex). Animals that consumed CLA presented a better average daily gain, decreased backfat thickness and a higher lean meat yield. Meat liquid retention capacity was not affected by diets. Based in these results it is beneficial the inclusion of CLA on finishing pigs feed.

A soja é um grão rico em proteínas e lipídeos, a partir do qual se obtém diversos derivados proteicos de alto valor nutricional. Em virtude disso, realizou-se este estudo com o objetivo de analisar a composição bromatológica de derivados proteicos de soja, bem como as características físico-químicas dos extrusados formados a partir destes. Foram formuladas seis dietas para cães, uma referência e cinco contendo 30% de derivados de soja (farinha desengordurada - FDS, micronizada, farelo, grão integral e grão tostado), as quais foram extrusadas. Os derivados de soja e as dietas foram submetidos a análises bromatológicas e de qualidade do processamento. A FDS e o farelo de soja apresentaram os maiores teores de proteína bruta, enquanto os grãos de soja integral e tostado e a soja micronizada apresentaram os maiores teores de extrato etéreo em hidrólise ácida e energia bruta. A soja grão integral apresentou a maior atividade ureásica e inibitória de tripsina, mesmo após a extrusão da dieta. Os extrusados contendo as sojas grão e micronizada apresentaram as maiores densidades e as menores durezas, índice de absorção de água e grau de gelatinização do amido. Derivados proteicos de soja apresentam alto valor nutricional, entretanto, devem ser termicamente processados antes da extrusão para completa inativação do inibidor de tripsina. Além do mais, derivados contendo alto teor de lipídeos, como soja grão e micronizada, quando adicionados em 30% da fórmula, comprometem a qualidade do extrusado.Soy is a grain rich in protein and lipids, from which its obtained different protein products of high nutritional value. This study aimed to analyze the chemical composition of different soy-protein products, as well as the characteristics of the extruded produced. Six diets were formulated, a reference and five with 30% soy product (defatted soy flour - DSF, micronized, soybean meal, crude grain or toasted grain), which were extruded. Soy products and diets were submitted to chemical analyses and process quality. The DSF and soybean meal presented the highest crude protein content, while the toasted and crude soybeans and micronized soy presented the highest acid hydrolyses ether extract and crude energy content. The crude soybean presented the highest ureatic activity and trypsin inhibitor activity, even after the diet extrusion. The soy beans and micronized soy extruded presented the highest density and the lowest hardness, water absorption index and starch gelatinization degree. Soy-protein products present high nutritional value, however they should be heated before extrusion to complete inhibition of trypsin inhibitor. Besides, soy products with high fat content, such as soybean and micronized soybean, when added to 30% reduced the extruded quality.

Considering the benefice demonstrated by the modulating action of probiotics on the host intestinal microbiota, this study aimed to evaluate diet digestibility and fecal characteristics of dogs fed with diets supplemented with Bacillus subtilis (C-3102). Twelve young Beagle dogs were distributed in a completely randomized experimental design consisting of two treatments: diet with no addition or with the addition of 0.01% Bacillus subtilis (C-3102). Dogs passed through 25 days of adaptation to the diets, and five days of total feces collection. The following fecal characteristics were evaluated: pH, fecal score (1 - watery feces; 5: dry and hard feces), and ammonia content. Diet mean digestibility was compared by the Tukey test, and fecal characteristics by the Tukey-Kramer test. Diet digestibility was not different between treatments, but dogs supplemented with the tested probiotic presented dryer feces (39.1% vs. 36.5% dry matter), higher fecal score (3.4 vs. 3.0) and lower fecal ammonia content (0.45% vs. 0.56%), than dogs fed with the control diet. The dietary supplementation with Bacillus subtilis (C-3102) improves fecal texture and odor in dogs.Em virtude da capacidade moduladora dos probióticos sobre a microbiota intestinal a favor da saúde do hospedeiro, objetivou-se, com este estudo, avaliar a digestibilidade e as características das fezes de cães suplementados com Bacillus subtilis (C-3102) na dieta. Foram utilizados 12 cães adultos da raça Beagle, os quais foram distribuídos inteiramente ao acaso, em dois tratamentos: dieta controle e dieta com adição de 0,01% de Bacillus subtilis (C-3102). Os animais passaram por 25 dias de adaptação às dietas e por cinco dias para colheita total de fezes. As características das fezes foram avaliadas por meio da matéria seca, do escore (1: fezes moles, malformadas a 5: fezes secas e duras), do pH, da amônia e da produção de fezes. Não houve diferença na digestibilidade; entretanto, os cães suplementados com probiótico apresentaram fezes mais secas (39,1% vs. 36,5% de matéria seca), com maior escore (3,4 vs. 3,0) e menor teor de amônia (0,45% vs. 0,56%), quando comparados com os alimentados com a dieta controle. A suplementação com Bacillus subtilis (C-3102) melhora a consistência e diminui o odor das fezes dos cães.

Avaliou-se tempos de incubação in situ (144 e 288h) dos indicadores internos FDAi e FDNi e o efeito do procedimento (lavagem ou não dos sacos de náilon durante a incubação) em amostras da dieta, digesta duodenal e fezes bovina. O fluxo duodenal de matéria seca e a produção fecal utilizando esses indicadores internos em comparação aoindicador externo óxido crômico também foram estimados. Os animais receberam dietas compostas de silagem de híbridos de sorgo, concentrado ou uréia durante o experimento. O delineamento experimental adotado foi o quadrado latino 4x4 duplicado, sendo ostratamentos distribuídos em esquema fatorial (dois tempos de incubaçao x dois procedimentos de lavagem). Não houve efeito do tempo de incubação ou procedimento na concentração dos indicadores internos FDNi e FDAi sendo a incubação in situ por 144h indicada para reproduzir a fração indigestível dos indicadores nas amostras incubadas. Na estimativa da produção fecal o indicador externo óxido crômico apresentou resultado (1,26 kg dia-1) mais próximo ao da coleta total de fezes (1,49 kg dia-1). Para o fluxo duodenal dematéria seca, ambos indicadores internos superestimaram os resultados quando comparados ao indicador externo óxido crômico.Times of in situ incubation (144 and 288h) for determination of internal markers IADF and INDF and the effects of differents procedures (wash or not the nylon bag every 72h incubation) was evaluated in samples of diet, duodenal digesta and cattle feces. The duodenal flow dry matter and fecal production utilizing the internal markers to compare with the external marker chromium oxide there was estimated. The animals were fed with sorgum silage, concentrate or urea. In this experiment, a latin square design was used, in a factorial scheme (two times of incubation x two processing nylon bag). No was observed effect of the incubation time or processing in the internal markers INDF and IADF concentration and the in situ incubation after 144h is adequate to reproduce the indigestible markers fraction in samples. For fecal production estimation, theexternal marker chromium oxide presented similar result (1.26 kg day-1) as the total fecal collection (1.49 kg day-1). Both the internal markers overestimate the duodenal flow dry matter when compared with the external marker chromium oxide.

Ruminal gases, particularly methane, generated during the fermentative process in rumen, represent a partial loss of feed energy and are also pointed to as an important factors in greenhouse effect. This study aimed at quantifying methane (CH4) emission rates from lactating and dry cows and heifers, 24 month-old in average, on pasture under Southeast Brazil tropical conditions, using the tracer gas technique, sulphur hexafluoride (SF6), four animals per category, distributed in four blocks. Measurements were performed in February and June, 2002, with Holstein and Brazilian Dairy Crossbred (Holstein ¾ x Gir (Zebu) ¼), maintained on fertilized Tanzania-grass (Panicum maximum Jacq. cv. Tanzania) and fertilized Brachiaria-grass (Brachiaria decumbens cv. Basilisk) pastures. Heifers of both breeds were maintained on unfertilized Brachiaria-grass to simulate conditions of extensive cattle farming systems. CH4 and SF6 levels were measured with gas chromatography. Differences in CH4 emissions were measured (p < 0.05) for genetical groups. Holstein produced more methane (299.3 g day-1) than the Crossbred (264.2 g day-1). Lactating cows produced more methane (353.8 g day-1) than dry cows (268.8 g day-1) and heifers (222.6 g day-1). Holstein, with greater milk production potential, produced less CH4 (p < 0.05) per unit of dry matter intake (19.1 g kg-1) than the Crossbred (22.0 g kg-1). Methane emission by heifers grazing fertilized pasture (intensive system) was 222.6 g day-1, greater (p < 0.05) than that of heifers on unfertilized pasture (179.2 g day-1). Methane emission varied as function of animal category and management intensity of production system.Gases gerados durante o processo de fermantação ruminal, metano em particular, representam não só uma perda parcial de energia da alimentação como também são apontados como importantes fatores do efeito-estufa. Quantificaram-se as taxas de emissão de metano (CH4) ruminal por vacas em lactação, vacas secas e novilhas com idade média de 24 meses, em pastejo sob condições tropicais do sudeste brasileiro, utilizando a técnica do gás traçador hexafluoreto de enxôfre (SF6). Foram utilizados quatro animais para cada categoria, distribuídos em quatro blocos. As medições foram realizadas em fevereiro e junho de 2002, com animais da raça Holandesa e Mestiça Leiteira Holandês ¾ x Gir ¼ - Mestiças, mantidos em pastagem de capim-Tanzânia (Panicum maximum Jacq. cv. Tanzania) e capim-braquiária (Brachiaria decumbens cv. Basilisk) adubadas, e também novilhas de ambas as raças em pastagens de capim-brachiaria sem adubação, simulando as condições de produção extensiva. As concentrações de CH4 e SF6 foram determinadas por cromatografia gasosa. Foram encontradas diferenças na emissão de metano (p < 0,05) entre os grupos genéticos. Animais da raça holandesa produziram mais metano (299,3 g dia-1) que as mestiças (264,2 g dia-1). Vacas secas e novilhas produzem menos metano (g dia-1) que vacas em lactação. A média de emissão de metano (g dia-1) pelas vacas secas e novilhas foi de 268,8 e 222,6 g respectivamente e as vacas em lactação 353,8 g. Os animais da raça holandesa, com maior potencial de produção de leite, perderam menos CH4 (p < 0,05) por unidade de matéria seca ingerida (19,1 g kg-1) que as mestiças (22,0 g kg-1). A produção de metano pelas novilhas mantidas em pastagens adubadas (sistema intensivo) foi de 222,6 g dia-1, maior (p < 0,05) que os animais desta categoria em pastagens não adubadas (179,2 g dia-1). A produção de metano variou em função da categoria de animal e pelo sistema de produção imposto aos animais.

As características físicas da dieta, dentre elas a granulometria, exercem importante papel no aproveitamento da dieta pelos animais. Desse modo, o presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os efeitos da granulometria da dieta sobre a digestibilidade e a metabolizabilidade da energia de rações secas extrusadas para cães. Oito cães adultos da raça Beagle foram distribuídos em delineamento quadrado latino duplo (4 x 4), totalizando oito repetições no tempo. Os ingredientes foram moídos em peneiras de 0,8; 1,0; 1,2 e 1,5mm, resultando em rações com diâmetro geométrico médio (DGM) de 468, 476, 499 e 588µm, respectivamente. Cada período experimental foi composto por cinco dias para adaptação às dietas e cinco dias de coleta total de fezes. As análises de correlação e regressão linear demonstraram relação negativa entre o DGM e os coeficientes de digestibilidade aparente (CDA) da proteína bruta (y=94,82-42,05x), o extrato etéreo em hidrólise ácida (y=86,57-35,02x), os extrativos não nitrogenados (y=102,48-48,42x) e a energia metabolizável (y=3597,56-1697,00x). Não foi observado efeito do DGM sobre o consumo de matéria seca e o CDA da matéria seca. Houve piora na qualidade das fezes à medida que o DGM das dietas aumentou. Portanto, a menor granulometria da ração está relacionada ao melhor aproveitamento dos nutrientes e à energia da dieta e à produção de fezes de melhor qualidade pelos cães.The physical characteristics of the diet, including particle size, exert important role in animals diet usage. So, the current study aimed to evaluate the effect of diet granulometry on nutrients digestibility and metabolizability of energy in dogs. Eight adult Beagle dogs were distributed in a double latin square design (4 x 4), totaling eight replicates in time. The ingredients of diets were ground in sieves of: 0.8, 1.0, 1.2 and 1.5mm, and the diets particle size were expressed as geometric mean diameter (GMD): 468, 476, 499 and 588µm, respectively. Each experimental period was composed by five days for diet adaptation and five days of total feces collection. The correlation and regression analyses showed a negative relationship between GMD and coefficient of apparent digestibility (CAD) of crude protein (y=94.82-42.05x), acid ether extract (y=86.57-35.02x), nitrogen free-extract (y=102.48-48.42x) and metabolizable energy (y=3597.56-1697.00x). It was not observed effect of GMD on dry matter intake and dry matter CAD. There was lower fecal score with increasing GMD of foods. Therefore, the lowest particle size of food resulted in better use of nutrients and diet energy and production of drier feces by dogs.

Determinaram-se a degradabilidade ruminal da matéria seca (MS) e a fibra em detergente neutro (FDN) e a eficiência de síntese de proteína microbiana em animais que consomem dietas contendo silagem de sorgo com diferentes teores de tanino. A degradação in situfoi avaliada por meio da incubação ruminal de silagens de sorgo contendo nível 1 (N1) e nível 2 (N2) de tanino por 0, 6, 24, 48 e 96h. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o quadrado latino4 x 4 duplicado. Os valores de degradabilidade potencial (DP) da MS foram semelhantes entre as silagens, enquanto a degradabilidade efetiva (DE) nas silagens foi reduzida ao adicionar concentradoà dieta. O fluxo de nitrogênio microbiano e a eficiência de síntese de proteína microbiana não foram afetados pela fonte de volumoso. Houve maior eficiência de síntese, expressa em relação à matériaorgânica e energia bruta digeridas no rúmen, nas dietas com silagem N1, quando as dietas foram suplementadas com concentrado. Não foi possível estabelecer relação consistente entre a presença de taninos e os parâmetros de degradação ruminal.This work aimed to determine ruminal parameters of dry mater (DM), neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and protein synthesis in the rumen of animals fed diets based on sorghum with different tannin levels. In situ degradation was evaluated by rumen incubation of level 1 (L1) and level 2 (L2) sorghum silages during 0, 6, 24, 48 and 96 hours. A duplicated 4 x 4 Latin Square was used. Potential degradability (PD) of DM was similar among silages, whereas the effectivedegradability (ED) decreased when the diets were supplemented with concentrate. Microbial nitrogen flux and microbial synthesis efficiency were not affected by roughage source. The synthesis efficiency, expressed in organic matter and crude protein digested inrumen, was higher in L1 tannin diets supplemented with concentrate. There was not relationship between the presence of tannins and the parameters of ruminal degradation.

Despite the possible influence of tannins on the nutritional value of the forages from Caatinga vegetation, there are few studies that evaluated their tannin concentration. This study was conducted to characterize condensed tannins present in the legumes species Mimosa hostilis (Jurema Preta), Mimosa caesalpinifolia (Sabiá) and Bauhinia cheilantha (Mororó), at three stages of their phenological cycle. The concentration of soluble tannin (ST), bound tannin (BT) and total tannin (TT) were determined using the butanol-HCL method; astringency was by the radial diffusion method, and the monomeric composition of purified tannins by a high-performance liquid chromatograph with delphinidin, cyanidin and pelargonidin as standards. Concentration and astringency of purified condensed tannins, as well as their monomeric composition varied between species, and in some cases among phenological cycles. The values observed were always above the limits considered beneficial for ruminal digestion (i.e. 5%). Jurema Preta presented the highest values (30.98% TT and 22% astringency at full growth stage), and Mororó the lowest (10.38% TT and 14% astringency during fructification). Jurema Preta presented a mean relationship prodelfinidin (PD): procyanidin (PC) of 97:3, which did not vary during the phenological cycle, showing the high astringent capacity of these tannins. Sabiá presented a relationship of 90:20 during full growth and flowering stages, decreasing to 40:50 at fructification. In Mororó the PD:PC relationship was more equilibrated, around 40:50 during full growth and flowering stages, decreasing to 35:60 During fructification. Propelargonidin was not detected or was present at low concentration in the three species.Apesar da possível influência do tanino sobre o valor nutritivo das forrageiras da Caatinga, poucos são os estudos que avaliam a concentração de taninos nestas plantas. O objetivo do presente estudo foi caracterizar os taninos condensados presentes nas espécies Mimosa hostilis (Jurema Preta), Mimosa caesalpinifolia (Sabiá) e Bauhinia cheilantha (Mororó), em três fases do ciclo fenológico. As concentrações de tanino solúvel (TS), tanino ligado ao resíduo (TL) e tanino total (TT) foram determinadas pelo método butanol-HCl; a adstringência foi avaliada pelo método de difusão radial e a composição de monômeros dos taninos purificados através do sistema de cromatografia líquida de alta resolução, utilizando delfinidina, cianidina e pelargonidina como padrões. A concentração e adstringência dos taninos condensados purificados, assim como sua composição monomérica, variou entre as espécies e, em alguns casos, entre os ciclos fenológicos. Os valores foram superiores aos considerados benéficos a digestão ruminal (5%). Jurema Preta apresentou os maiores valores (30,98% TT e 22% de adstringência na vegetação plena) e Mororó os menores valores observados (10,38 TT e 14% de adstringência na frutificação). A Jurema Preta apresentou uma relação prodelfinidina (PD):procianidina (PC) média de 97:3 que se mostrou pouco variável, indicando uma alta capacidade adstringente dos taninos desta espécie em todas as fases do ciclo fenológico. O Sábia apresentou uma relação de 90:20 nas fases de vegetação plena e floração, diminuindo para 40:50 na fase de frutificação. A relação PD:PC do Mororó foi mais equilibrada, oscilando em torno de 40:50 nas fases de vegetação plena e floração e reduzindo para 35:60 durante a frutificação. A propelargonidina esteve ausente ou em pequena concentração nas espécies estudadas.

Foram realizados três experimentos procurando avaliar a utilização de dois marcadores internos (FDN e FDA indigestíveis), obtidos por meio da incubação in vitro e in situ, e de um marcador externo (óxido crômico) para estimativa da produção fecal e do fluxo da digesta duodenal em bovinos. Para análise dos dados, adotou-se o delineamento em blocos inteiramente ao acaso, sendo os tratamentos distribuídos em esquema fatorial, constituindo cinco marcadores e três volumosos. Os teores de FDN e FDA indigestíveis mostraram-se variáveis para cada volumosos, independentemente da metodologia utilizada (in vitro ou in situ), indicando que possivelmente a incubação por 144 horas não reproduz a fração indigestível total. As estimativas de produção fecal e de fluxo da digesta duodenal, obtidas por intermédio dos marcadores avaliados, apresentaram comportamento bastante diferenciado de acordo com cada volumoso. Os marcadores internos (FDN e FDA indigestíveis) podem ser utilizados como preditores dos parâmetros avaliados, desde que alguns cuidados sejam tomados na sua determinação.In order to estimate fecal production and digesta flow of cattle, three assays were carried out using indigestible NDF and ADF as internal markers, applying in vitro and in situ incubation procedures, as well as chromium oxide as an external marker. The experiment was a randomized block design in a factorial arrangement. Indigestible NDF and ADF contents exhibited high variation despite the methodology employed (in vitro or in situ). These results indicate that, eventually, 144-h incubation time does not reproduce the indigestible total fraction. The estimates of fecal production and duodenal digesta flow, calculated in function of the marker used, presented a variable behavior according to the roughage, which implies its effect on the marker concentration. Regarding important criteria involved in their determination, these internal markers can be used as predictors of the evaluated parameters.

Avaliou-se tempos de incubação in situ (144 e 288h) dos indicadores internos FDAi e FDNi e o efeito do procedimento (lavagem ou não dos sacos de náilon durante a incubação) em amostras da dieta, digesta duodenal e fezes bovina. O fluxo duodenal de matéria seca e a produção fecal utilizando esses indicadores internos em comparação ao indicador externo óxido crômico também foram estimados. Os animais receberam dietas compostas de silagem de híbridos de sorgo, concentrado ou uréia durante o experimento. O delineamento experimental adotado foi o quadrado latino 4x4 duplicado, sendo os tratamentos distribuídos em esquema fatorial (dois tempos de incubaçao x dois procedimentos de lavagem). Não houve efeito do tempo de incubação ou procedimento na concentração dos indicadores internos FDNi e FDAi sendo a incubação in situ por 144h indicada para reproduzir a fração indigestível dos indicadores nas amostras incubadas. Na estimativa da produção fecal o indicador externo óxido crômico apresentou resultado (1,26 kg dia-1) mais próximo ao da coleta total de fezes (1,49 kg dia-1). Para o fluxo duodenal de matéria seca, ambos indicadores internos superestimaram os resultados quando comparados ao indicador externo óxido crômico.

Determinaram-se a degradabilidade ruminal da matéria seca (MS) e a fibra em detergente neutro (FDN) e a eficiência de síntese de proteína microbiana em animais que consomem dietas contendo silagem de sorgo com diferentes teores de tanino. A degradação in situ foi avaliada por meio da incubação ruminal de silagens de sorgo contendo nível 1 (N1) e nível 2 (N2) de tanino por 0, 6, 24, 48 e 96h. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o quadrado latino 4 x 4 duplicado. Os valores de degradabilidade potencial (DP) da MS foram semelhantes entre as silagens, enquanto a degradabilidade efetiva (DE) nas silagens foi reduzida ao adicionar concentrado à dieta. O fluxo de nitrogênio microbiano e a eficiência de síntese de proteína microbiana não foram afetados pela fonte de volumoso. Houve maior eficiência de síntese, expressa em relação à matéria orgânica e energia bruta digeridas no rúmen, nas dietas com silagem N1, quando as dietas foram suplementadas com concentrado. Não foi possível estabelecer relação consistente entre a presença de taninos e os parâmetros de degradação ruminal.

ABSTRACT: The objective of the present study was to evaluate the digestibility and the immunomodulatory effects of diets supplemented with lutein in dogs. Sixteen adult dogs were distributed in two groups (control and test) in a completely randomized design. Dogs were fed for 120 days with iso-nutritive diets, which only difference was the inclusion of 45g lutein/kg in the diet fed to the test group. Blood samples were collected in the beginning and at the end of the experimental period to evaluate total lymphocyte, lymphocyte proliferation index, and CD4+ and CD8+ lymphocyte counts. In order to evaluate apparent diet digestibility, dogs were housed in metabolic cages for ten days (five days of adaptation and five for faeces total collection). Coefficients of total tract apparent digestibility were not different between dogs in the control and the lutein-fed groups. Lutein dietary supplementation did not influence total lymphocyte or lymphocyte proliferation index, but resulted in higher CD4+ and CD8+ lymphocyte numbers. Lutein supplementation did not affect diet digestibility or lymphocyte proliferation index in dogs. However, it increases the concentrations of CD4+ and CD8+ T-lymphocyte subtypes.

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to evaluate the alterations in blood biochemical profiles and body condition of dogs after intake of the diet without soybean hull (0%SH) and with soybean hull (16%SH) replacing corn. Twelve Beagle dogs with ideal body condition score (BCS) (average: 5) were distributed in a completely randomized design (six animals per treatment) and received the daily amount of food according to the energy needs for maintenance (g/kg weight0.75). The animals were evaluated on days 0 and 28 in relation to the blood biochemical profiles and body measurements, such as: total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), very-low density lipoprotein (VLDL), triglyceride (TAG), glucose, body weight (BW), body fat percentage (%BF), nape, rib, tail base (TB), chest, and abdomen with plicometer, and BCS (scale of 1, thin and 9, obese), canine body mass index (CBMI), and thickness of the adipose tissue of the seventh lumbar vertebra (L7) with ultrasonography. The data were analyzed by Student's t test. The variation (final - initial, mg/dL) of cholesterol (16.33 vs. 15.55), HDL (17.56 vs. 10.05), LDL (22.78 vs. 14.57), VLDL (-4.01 vs. -1.92), TAG (-20.11 vs. -11.66), and glucose (-16.77 vs. -20.31) of dogs fed 0%SH and 16%SH, respectively, showed no difference. The body measurement variation (cm) of TB (1.00 vs. -0.60) obtained a significant difference. The addition of soybean hull in the diet does not alter the blood biochemical profiles; however, it does decrease the deposition of lipids in subcutaneous tissue.