Effect of dietary supplementation with salmon oil on semen quality in male dogs

Introduction and aim The possibility of artificial insemination for dogs is becoming increasingly popular, necessitating that breeders not only maintain the quality of sperm but also enhance certain qualitative indicators of it. Sperm quality parameters are influenced by numerous factors, including nutritional supplements. However, only a limited number of studies have been conducted on the efficacy of male fertility supplements, particularly fatty acids, in male dogs. Salmon oil, a source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, has gained interest for its potential effects on canine reproduction. Studies conducted by other authors suggest that fatty acids are an important factor for the proper functioning of the plasma membrane of sperm cells and play a decisive role in the course of fertilization. This is because they are responsible for the necessary fluidity and permeability of the membrane, which is necessary for reaching the oocyte and fusing with it during fertilization. Furthermore, the lipid composition of the sperm plasma membrane is a key factor influencing the following characteristics: sperm motility, resistance to ambient temperature, overall sperm viability and cell membrane integrity. These factors can enhance canine fertility (sperm motility, viability, concentration, and morphology) and reproductive performance (1, 2). The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of liquid salmon oil as a short-term food supplement on semen quality parameters in dogs. [...].