The influence of dietary composition on food preference in Sharplanina Shepherd puppies

Abstract

Pet food manufacturers aim to balance the palatability with the nutritional value of their products. Ensuring that young canines receive the best nourishment is crucial, while also promoting long-lasting engagement and satisfaction during mealtime. The study aimed to investigate if the nutritional content of food can affect food preferences in 2-month-old Sharplanina shepherd dogs and the development of neophobia when introduced to a new diet. Three different dietary plans were tested, each with varying percentages of animal-derived proteins (97% in A, 77% in B, and 94% in C). Observations of behavior were documented on camera at the beginning and end of a 10-day feeding cycle. The observations were made during the scheduled feeding times of 7 a.m., noon, and 5 p.m. According to the study, puppies showed neophobic behavior when a new diet was introduced. The puppies displayed a notable decrease in meal rate of consumption, heightened distraction during diet consumption, and increased hesitation on the first day of each new diet, specifically on day 9 and day 10. Post-consumption interest peaked significantly on day 9 and day 10, particularly when dogs consumed diet C. Through the study, it was observed that Diet C had an impact on the puppies' feed preferences, indicating a possible link between the diet's nutritional content and their food preferences. Based on the study results, it appears that puppies need at least 9 days to reduce neophobia and adapt to new food flavors and feeding schedules.