The total fecal collection (TC) and the marker techniques were compared in the determination of the apparent digestibility coefficients (ADC) of dry matter, crude protein, ether extract, nitrogen-free extract and gross energy. The markers used were chromic oxide (Cr2O3), acid detergent fiber (ADF), and acid insoluble ash (AIA). The apparent digestibility coefficients based on TC, Cr2O3 and AIA were similar (P>0,001). The ADF method showed smaller recuperation index than Cr2O3 and AIA. The means (+ std. deviation) for the recuperation index were 55,1% (+3,7), 93,9% (+17,7) and 93,7% (+13,3) for ADF, AIA and Cr2O3, respectively. The TC, Cr2O3 and AIA techniques may be utilized for the determination of apparent digestibility in dogs.
Dog; markers; digestibility
