SERUM PROTEIN EVALUATION OF PIT BULL, BULLMASTIFF AND CANE CORSO BREEDS OF DOMESTIC DOG (CANIS LUPUS FAMILIARIS)

The diversity of proteins, their metabolism and protein functions are attributed to a wide range of responses in cells, organs and tissues of animals. The study evaluated specific serum proteins from male and female gender of 3 dog breeds (Pit bull, Bullmastiff and Cane corso). Cellulose acetate electrophoresis technique was used to ascertain the concentrations (g/dL) of the individual serum proteins and compared to the respective normal reference values for domestic dog. Results obtained indicate that the Pit bull (male and female) and the Bullmastiff (female) had serum albumin concentrations that were higher than the normal reference range. An increase above normal in serum globulin (α₁-globulin, α₂-globulin and β₂-globulin) concentrations was observed in the female Cane corso breed, as other dog gender and breed fell within reference range. A comparison based on serum albumin/globulin (A/G) ratio of the dog breeds revealed a normal A/G concentration except for the female Cane corso (0.36 g/dL) which was lower than normal, and the female Pit bull (1.19 g/dL) which was found to be higher. Such abnormal decrease and or increase in these respective serum protein concentrations could be attributed to prolong dehydration due to the dogs regular activity and low fluid (water) replacement and or incidences of mild to acute inflammatory response/disease due to consumption of a certain diet type over time.