Choose a Dog

Having problem teaching Fido to sit and stay when you prefer him to? Fresh research shows nutrition possibly will affect your dog’s ability to learn.

A study released at the 2004 meeting of the American Veterinary Medical Association shows docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an necessary brain-building nutrient for human babies, is fantastic for puppies, too.

The new research, conducted by The Iams Co., looked at the role DHA plays inside brain development for puppies. It found puppies nourished with high levels of DHA – equally previous to and after weaning – were smarter, extra trainable than puppies fed low amounts of DHA.

These findings correlate with those on human nutrition. Inside 2001, the Food and Drug Administration acknowledged the benefits of DHA when it approved the fortification of human infant formula using DHA to ensure formula-fed infants received the cognitive benefits of this nutrient.

“The role of DHA for puppies is similar to that for human infants – it is a major structural component of the brain,” said Dr. Dan Carey, a veterinarian using Iams. “This research shows why feeding a diet high in DHA is so crucial. Fantastic nutrition, combined with training and loving care, primes puppies for fit lives.”

Inside the Iams study, 39 puppies were evaluated for the effects of dietary DHA on learning. Puppies were fed a total and balanced diet that varied simply in DHA levels, as were the puppies’ mothers prior to delivery. Following they turned 9 weeks old, all puppy was tested inside a shape-recognition food-reward test, which included a maze course using symbols associated using the location of a food therapy.

Following 30 days of testing, the success rate for puppies nourished with improved amounts of DHA was twice that of those receiving typical amounts of DHA in their diets.

“Based on the results of this study, I would recommend that breeders and pet owners feed their dogs foods improved using DHA,” said Carmen Battaglia, founder of the “Breeding Greater Dogs” program. “I consider they’ll see greater results not simply inside their puppies since they grow and develop, but also inside better training due to greater brain development.”

Eukanuba puppy foods, which have improved levels of DHA, are perfect for dog owners who desire smarter, extra trainable puppies.