Zinc (Zn) is a key nutrient for dogs, playing an important role in many metabolic functions. It has been estimated that 91% of the minimum maintenance requirement for Zn is needed to support hair growth. Coat condition is perceived as being important by pet owners and is thus of fundamental concern when evaluating the adequacy of a diet for dogs.

Zn absorption has been shown to vary as a function of the amount and source of the Zn in the diet and as a function of the presence of elevated calcium and / or phytate levels in the diet.

It has been suggested that when dietary Zn is supplied in the form of a chelate with amino acids, rather than from inorganic sources, a greater proportion of Zn is absorbed an is thus available to the animal. Further, the undesirable effects that dietary antagonists, such as calcium, exert on Zn absorption may be negated