Comparative Effects of Zinc Methionylglycinate and Zinc Sulfate on Hair Coat Characteristics and Zinc Concentration in Plasma, Hair, and Stool of Dogs

The study compared the effects of zinc methionylglycinate (ZnMG) and zinc sulfate (ZnSO4) on haircoat characteristics and zinc concentration in plasma, hair, and stool of dogs. Eight mature female beagles were divided into two groups and given 120 ppm of either ZnMG or ZnSO4 in a cross-over design over 5 weeks. Results showed that dogs supplemented with ZnMG had a greater hair growth rate, higher zinc deposition in hair, increased serum ALP activity, and higher plasma zinc concentration compared to those given ZnSO4. The hair of dogs receiving ZnMG appeared smoother and less fragmented. The study concluded that ZnMG, an organic form of zinc, was more effective in enhancing haircoat characteristics and was suitable for inclusion in commercial dog foods.