dc.description.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 an
imal-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
sumption, 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
phobia and adapt to new food flavors and feeding schedules. | sr |