Dog Diets Research Articles

Comparative Assessment of Faecal Microbiota in Healthy and Epileptic Dogs

Idiopathic epilepsy is a neurological condition affecting dogs and cats characterized by repeated seizures for which no cause other than a hypothesized genetic predisposition can be identified. The aim of this study was to comparatively evaluate the content of mesophilic aerobic bacteria, coliform bacteria, Escherichia coli, Enterococcus spp., Staphylococcus aureus and Lactobacillus spp. in the faecal flora of healthy dogs and dogs diagnosed with epilepsy. Feces of 10 healthy dogs and 10 dogs diagnosed with epilepsy were used as study material. Selective isolation and counts were performed with inoculating the faecal samples were on Tryptic Soy Agar for mesophilic aerobic bacteria, MacConkey Agar for coliform bacteria, Eosin Methylene Blue Agar for E. coli, Bile Esculin Agar for Enterococcus spp., Mannitol Salt Agar for S. aureus and De Man, Rogosa and Sharpe Agar for Lactobacillus spp. The numbers of mesophilic aerobic bacteria, coliform bacteria, E. coli, Enterococcus spp., S. aureus and Lactobacillus spp. were 6.6x106, 2.6x105, 1.4x105, 1.6x105, 3.2x104 and 4.1 x 104 cfu/mg in the faecal flora of healthy dogs; and 9.0x106, 5.0x105, 2.8x105, 6.4x105, 6.3x104, and 1.2x104 cfu/mg in dogs diagnosed with epilepsy, respectively. As a result, there was a decrease in the number of Lactobacillus spp. in the faecal flora of dogs with epilepsy compared to healthy dogs, while the number of other bacteria increased. It was concluded that adding probiotic bacteria to the diet of epileptic dogs could help regulate the gut microbiota and reduce the severity and frequency of seizures.

Exploring the popularity of raw meat-based diets for dogs and cats: A cross-sectional opinion survey in Spain.

Research on the general public's knowledge and usage patterns of pet food, particularly regarding raw meat-based diets (RMBDs), is limited in many countries, including Spain. An anonymous cross-sectional web-based survey was conducted to assess the Spanish population's understanding and perceptions of RMBDs for cats and dogs. Of the 712 respondents, 46.77% were familiar with RMBDs, and 6% of pet owners reported using them. Dogs (7.61%) were more likely to be fed an RMBDs than cats (3.23%). While 66% of those familiar with RMBDs believed in their benefits, 96.40% recognised potential disadvantages. Concerns about risks to pets (63%) and those handling the food items (44.74%) were noted. Moreover, almost one in four owners (22.58%) who fed their pet an RMBDs lived with immunologically vulnerable people. Interestingly, confidence in veterinary advice was lower among owners using these diets. Limitations intrinsic to questionnaire studies, such as potential response bias, are acknowledged. The study highlights the importance of improved veterinarian‒client communication regarding pet nutrition, emphasising the need for veterinarians to play a more active educational role.

Effect of Wheat Dextrin Fiber on the Fecal Microbiome and Short-Chain Fatty Acid Concentrations in Dogs: Randomized, Single-Blinded, Parallel-Group Clinical Trial

The purpose of this study was to assess the practical implications of supplementing soluble fiber in the diet of dogs. Dogs with a history of managed or active chronic enteropathy were randomized to receive either wheat dextrin (fiber group) or maltodextrin (placebo group) mixed with food once daily for 28 days. Owners recorded a daily fecal score one week prior to and during the supplementation period. Shallow shotgun sequencing, quantitative PCR abundances of core bacterial taxa, and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) concentrations via gas chromatography/mass spectrometry were performed on fecal samples collected before and after supplementation. Seventeen dogs completed the study (fiber group: nine dogs; placebo group: eight dogs). The change in fecal score differed between groups, with the fiber group developing softer stools (p = 0.03). Alpha diversity, quantified PCR abundances of the SCFA-producing taxa, and fecal SCFA concentrations were not different after supplementation in either group. Fecal microbial communities differed between baseline and day 28 for fiber and placebo groups (p = 0.02, respectively); however, the size effect (ANOSIM R = 0.18 and R = 0.26, respectively) was minimal. In this small group of dogs fed variable commercial diets, the additional intake of wheat dextrin powder supplement was well accepted, but had minimal discernable clinical benefit, and could soften stools.

Diet of raccoon dogs (Nyctereutes procyonoides) in Danish wetlands with focus on ground-nesting birds and amphibians

In European countries, raccoon dogs (Nyctereutes procyonoides) are believed to impact ecosystems and potentially threaten native species. In this study, the stomachs of 525 raccoon dogs culled in Danish wetlands were analysed and compared to 53 stomachs of adult raccoon dogs killed by vehicles, from the countryside. The stomach content was analysed using traditional macroscopic technics supplemented by eDNA analysis. The diet of raccoon dogs in wetlands did not differ notably from that of raccoon dogs in other parts of Denmark except for the larger amount of bait, and less shrews and fruit. More than 80% of the diet of adult raccoon dogs in wetlands consisted of bait, birds (mainly ducks taken in autumn and songbirds), amphibians, carrion, berries, fruit, and grass. Also, insects (mainly larger beetles and aquatic insects) occurred in the diet of raccoon dogs in wetlands. Waterfowl eaten during the autumn and winter are likely to be migrating birds. A high number of carrion beetles and fly maggots indicates a high consumption of carrion of all kinds. Eggs of ground-nesting birds made up a negligible part of the raccoon dog’s diet. eDNA-analysis found no trace of shorebirds and only common species of amphibians were recorded. This study provides no evidence that raccoon dogs are a threat to ground-nesting birds nor to endangered amphibians in Danish wetlands.

Parallel Signatures of Diet Adaptation in the Invasive Common Myna Genome.

Invasive species offer uniquely replicated model systems to study rapid adaptation. The common myna (Acridotheres tristis) has been introduced to over a dozen countries and is classified as one of the most invasive birds in the world. Their multiple invasions provide an opportunity to identify repeated adaptation, as invasive populations originated from multiple source populations. We compared whole-genome resequencing data from 80 individuals from four native and seven invasive populations, representing two independent introduction pathways. Results from two different selection scan methods were combined and identified a strongly selected region on chromosome 8 that spans two copies of AMY2A, part of the alpha-amylase gene family, a putative ncRNA and an insertion-deletion structural variant (SV) that contains an ERVK transposable element (TE). Outlier SNPs and the SV are polymorphic in native populations, but fixed or close-to-fixed in the two invasive pathways, with the fixation of the same alleles in two independent lineages providing evidence for parallel selection on standing variation. Intriguingly, the second copy of AMY2A has a non-conservative missense mutation at a phylogenetically conserved site. This mutation, alongside variation in the SV, TE and ncRNA, provide possible routes for changes to protein function or expression. AMY2A has been associated with human commensalism in house sparrows, and genes in this family have been linked to adaptation to high-starch diets in humans and dogs. This study illustrates the value of replicated analyses within and across species to understand rapid adaptation at the molecular level.

Effect of commercial prescription diets containing prebiotics on clinical signs and fecal microbiome in dogs with intestinal disease.

Diet has emerged as a key modulator of the gut microbiota, offering a potential strategy for disease prevention and management. This study investigated the effects of the Prescription Diet Gastrointestinal Biome (GB) on 7 healthy dogs and 16 dogs with chronic gastrointestinal diseases (GI dogs). Our investigation monitored changes in body weight and the Canine Inflammatory Bowel Disease Activity Index (CIBDAI) in 16 GI dogs fed a GB diet. Additionally, we assessed the gut microbiota using 16S rRNA sequencing pre- (GI dogs) and post- (healthy dogs and GI dogs) administration of GB diet. In dogs with GI, a significant improvement in the severity of CIBDAI was observed post-feeding with the GB diet compared to the period pre-feeding, without any changes in body weight. Primary changes in the gut microbiome were marked by significant differences between healthy and GI dogs. However, post-feeding the GB diet in GI dogs, resulted in an increase in Turicibacter and a decrease in Escherichia-Shigella linked with gastrointestinal inflammation. In conclusion, the GB diet appears to positively influence the gut microbiota and clinical outcomes in dogs with GI. Future studies should explore these relationships by focusing on the long-term effects of diet on the gut health and disease management.

Omega Fatty Acids and Its Role in Amelioration of Canine Dermatological Disorders

Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids (FA) are crucial dietary components for dogs, playing a vital role in maintaining healthy skin. Omega-3 FA possess anti-inflammatory properties, potentially aiding in managing conditions like allergies and atopic dermatitis that cause itching and irritation. Omega-6 FA contribute to healthy skin barrier function, protecting against environmental allergens and pathogens. However, excessive omega-6 intake can promote inflammation. An optimal ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids in a dog's diet is essential. Omega-3s are found in fatty fish (salmon, mackerel) and fish oil, while omega-6s are abundant in vegetable oils (sunflower, soybean). If homemade foods are not properly balanced, they may easily be deficient in many essential nutrients. Various skin problems like alopecia, scaly skin, dry, pruritic and skin infections can result from this. Proper dietary management with balanced omega-3 and omega-6 intake can significantly benefit dogs suffering from skin conditions. A well-balanced diet is essential for maintaining the health of the skin.

All in the Details: A First Assessment for the Viability of Metabarcoding in Diet Composition Analysis of African Wild Dogs (Lycaon pictus).

DNA metabarcoding is a contemporary technique in diet composition studies and stands to fill key knowledge gaps left by traditional diet analysis methods. For endangered species such as the African wild dog (Lycaon pictus), the fulfilment of these knowledge gaps presents an opportunity for improved management practices and vulnerability assessments. There are an estimated ~600 African wild dogs remaining in South Africa. These dogs are generally understood to prey upon impala (Aepyceros melampus) and other medium-sized ungulates. Here, we present the first assessment of DNA metabarcoding as a valuable method for diet composition analysis of this highly social carnivore. DNA from faecal samples collected across seven landscape types in the Kruger National Park (KNP) was extracted and used to determine the presence of seven unique prey taxa, including novel species such as the Cape hare (Lepus capensis). Impala was identified as a prey item in all landscape types, complementing the diet preference prediction made with stable isotope analysis using the same samples and existing understanding of wild dog diet. Given recommended improvements, the application of DNA metabarcoding in wild dog diet analysis shows promising prospects for identifying novel prey species and validating previous records of this endangered canids diet.

Nutritional value of common carbohydrate sources used in pet foods.

Diet digestibility can vary based on factors such as the type of ingredients, processing techniques, formulation, fiber content, and nutrient interactions. Unlike proteins and fats, there is no specific carbohydrate requirement, which typically constitutes 30%-60% of commercial dried dog foods. Because of the significant proportion of carbohydrates in dog food, this study aimed to evaluate the differences in nutrient digestibility among barley, brown rice, corn, mung bean, and rice, which are common carbohydrate sources in commercial dog foods. All experimental diets had consistent chemical compositions. The digestibility of each carbohydrate source was evaluated using the total feces collection method in four castrated male and four neutered female beagles with an average age of 4.58 ± 0.14 years. The average daily dry matter intake of the five experimental diets was 203.0 ± 3.23 g/day. The percentage of dry matter digestibility of the apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) was the highest for rice and corn at 92.45% and 92.95%, respectively, followed by brown rice (91.61%), barley (88.81%), and mung beans (80.74%). The percentage of nitrogen-free extract digestibility was also high for rice, corn, and brown rice at 97.08%, 96.14%, and 95.56%, respectively, followed by barley at 90.10% and mung bean at 83.38%. Amino acid digestibility analysis revealed no statistically significant differences between rice, corn, brown rice, and barley, except for methionine, which is an essential amino acid. Although the ATTD and amino acid profile of the mung bean-based diet were less efficient than those of the other test diets, the overall digestibility was satisfactory and there were no significant differences in palatability. The differences in digestibility observed in mung bean-based diets compared to other grain-based diets can be attributed to variations in the starch and fiber content of the raw materials. By leveraging these characteristics, mung bean-based diets may offer strategic benefits for glycemic control and weight management in dogs. Our results may serve as a basis for formulating appropriate diets for dogs.

Beneficial Effects of Nutraceuticals, Especially Polyphenols on Canine Health

The use of nutraceuticals, mainly phytogenics, is increasingly widespread in animal nutrition, especially in dogs. The materials typically used to provide these very diverse natural compounds come from plants, but lately algae and fungi have also been used. In animal nutrition, these compounds are applied to obtain better results in the production and stability of feed and also as biofunctional substances with benefits for animal health. Polyphenols are natural compounds from the secondary metabolism of plant matter present in animal food (e.g., seeds and nuts, fruits, vegetables, herbs/aromatic plants, spices, cereals, and vegetable oils, among others). Most of the biological effects of these compounds associated with health benefits have been attributed to their antioxidant potential because they can protect cellular elements against oxidative injury, reducing the risk of dysfunctions and diseases associated with oxidative processes. Polyphenols are constituted by multiple families of substances with wide applications in pet therapy and nutrition. In this work, we review the most relevant phytogenic polyphenols, exploring their characteristics, sources, and implications for canine health. Our focus includes the effects on gastrointestinal functions and its microbiota, as well as aspects such as obesity, diabetes, and fat metabolism. Additionally, we examine their impact on cardiovascular, neurological, and immunological systems, along with their potential anti-oncogenic role. Finally, we discuss the overall role of polyphenols in dog diets and their future implications.

Endemic and elusive trophic interactions: The first comprehensive description of the diet of short-eared dogs (Atelocynus microtis) in Amazon rainforests

The short-eared dog (Atelocynus microtis) is the only endemic Amazonian canid species, which is also elusive and rarely recorded across its distribution, making it one of the least known canid species in the world. Even though it is considered to be a carnivore species, it has been reported to consume other food items, such as fruits. However, no comprehensive analysis of its diet is currently available in the literature. Here we report the first comprehensive analysis of the diet of wild and re-introduced individuals of A. microtis in the western Amazon (southeastern Peru). Its diet includes at least 34 distinct food items, including arthropods, vertebrates (fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals), fruits, and seeds. Our study confirms the potential of A. microtis to be considered omnivorous, as well as expands the known range of food items in its diet. As a mesocarnivore with an omnivorous diet, A. microtis has important potential implications for forest dynamics, such as seed dispersal and regulating prey populations, which should be further investigated.

PSIX-5 Performance of black soldier fly larvae meal as secondary protein sources in extruded dog diets

Abstract Black soldier fly larvae meal (BSFL) has gained market exposure with ties to sustainability and novelty. Graded inclusions of BSFL were assessed for nutrient digestibility, stool quality, and palatability in adult dogs. The BSFL was included at 0%, 5% and 10% in chicken-based extruded dog diets (formulated to 22% crude protein, 13% crude fat, 3% crude fiber). The study was approved by the facility’s Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee. A standard 2-bowl palatability test over a 2-d period was executed (n = 30 dogs each) to determine intake ratios between diets (0% vs. 5%, 0% vs. 10%, and 5% vs. 10%). Total tract nutrient digestibility was evaluated (n = 6 dogs per diet) with 5 d acclimation followed by 5 d total fecal collection. Stool quality was evaluated on a 1 to 5 scale. Palatability data were analyzed using paired t-test. To test for mean differences in digestibility and stool quality outcomes between 0%, 5%, and 10% BSFL dogs, we applied the Kruskal-Wallis test. Statistical significance was set at 5% type 1 error rate. Dry matter, protein, fat, and energy digestibility, and stool quality were similar between all diets (P > 0.05). Palatability was improved (P < 0.05) with inclusion of BSFL (i.e., preference for 5% and 10% vs. 0% inclusion) and improved (P < 0.05) at 10% vs. 5% inclusion. The BSFL tested showed merit as a palatable ingredient source that maintains stool quality and digestibility in adult dogs.

Raw meat diets are a major risk factor for carriage of third-generation cephalosporin-resistant and multidrug-resistant E. coli by dogs in the UK.

Raw-meat diets (RMD) for dogs, comprising unprocessed or non-heat-treated animal material, are increasingly popular. However, RMDs have been demonstrated to be contaminated with antimicrobial resistant (AMR) bacteria, and there is concern that such diets may pose a zoonotic disease risk. Additionally, dogs fed RMD may shed more AMR- fecal bacteria compared to those fed conventional cooked diets. Data from the UK remain limited; the present study investigated the presence of AMR-Escherichia coli in the feces of RMD and non-RMD (NRMD)-fed dogs in the UK, the E. coli AMR gene complement, and the lifestyle risk factors associated with AMR- E. coli carriage. Fecal samples from UK-owned dogs (N = 193 RMD, N = 239 NRMD) and questionnaires discussing lifestyle factors, were obtained between October 2020-August 2021. Samples underwent culture and antimicrobial susceptibility testing to determine the presence of AMR-E. coli. Whole genome sequencing determined AMR gene carriage. Risk factors for the presence of AMR-E. coli were determined by multivariable modeling. RMD dogs carried significantly more fecal AMR E. coli (p < 0.001), including third-generation cephalosporin resistant, extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing, and multidrug resistant isolates and multivariable modeling confirmed raw-meat diets to be a significant risk factor. The bla CTX-M-15 gene was the most frequently identified bla ESBL gene. The bla CTX-M-55 and bla SHV-66 genes were also prevalent and were only found in RMD dogs. The mobile colistin resistance gene, mcr-4 was identified in one ESBL-producing E. coli isolate from a NRMD-fed dog. This study has shown that dogs fed RMD in the UK are significantly more likely to shed E. coli which is resistant to highest priority critically important antibiotics, and multidrug resistant E. coli, than dogs fed NRMD. Additionally, AMR-E. coli isolates from RMD-fed dogs harbor multiple, diverse, and novel AMR genes. Therefore, provision of RMD to dogs could pose an important potential threat to human and animal health, especially given the close nature of the relationship many owners share with their pets. Awareness of these findings should be shared with pet owners, veterinary and medical professionals, pet food manufacturers and public health to mitigate potential risks.

A Diet Supplemented with Oil-Free Olive Pulp Flour (MOP-ManniOlivePowder®) Improves the Oxidative Status of Dogs.

Olive oil coproducts and their phenolic extracts have shown beneficial effects when added to the diets of food-producing animals, whereas data on their effects on pets are scarce. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation with olive flour (MOP®) on oxidative blood biomarkers in dogs. Thirty dogs were recruited and divided into two groups. Both groups were fed the same kibble feed twice daily. The treatment group (T) also received canned wet feed supplemented with 11.5 mg/kg of body weight of organic olive flour per day, whereas the control group (C) received the same wet feed without any supplementation. The findings showed that oil-free olive pulp flour supplementation led to a significant decrease in d-ROMs (p < 0.044) in the blood of the T group (from 101.26 to 86.67 U CARR), whereas no significant changes were observed in the C group. An increasing OXY trend was found in the blood of the T group. Polyphenols in olive flour at a dose of 11.5 mg/kg of body weight contributed to lowering the oxidative stress threshold in dogs, reducing the levels of d-ROMs in dogs and leading to increasing trends in the amount of blood antioxidants. The use of olive pulp flour in dog diets has proven to be beneficial for their health and could also reduce the waste associated with olive oil production.

PSIX-1 Evaluation of canola meal inclusion in adult dog diets and the impact on digestibility, stool quality, and palatability

PSIX-1 Evaluation of canola meal inclusion in adult dog diets and the impact on digestibility, stool quality, and palatability

The association between taurine concentrations and dog characteristics, clinical variables, and diet in English cocker spaniels: The Canine taURinE (CURE) project.

Occurrence of low blood taurine concentrations (B-TauC) and predisposing factors to taurine deficiency in English Cocker Spaniels (ECS) are incompletely understood. Investigate the occurrence of low B-TauC in a Swedish population of ECS and evaluate the association between B-TauC and dog characteristics, clinical variables, and diet composition. One-hundred eighty privately owned ECS. Dogs were prospectively recruited and underwent physical examination, blood analyses, and echocardiographic and ophthalmic examinations. Dogs with clinical signs of congestive heart failure (CHF) also underwent thoracic radiography. Taurine concentrations were analyzed in plasma (EDTA and heparin) and whole blood. Diets consumed by the dogs at the time of the examination were analyzed for dietary taurine- (D-TauC), cysteine- (D-CysC), and methionine concentrations (D-MetC). Fifty-three of 180 dogs (29%) had low B-TauC, of which 13 (25%) dogs had clinical and radiographic signs of CHF, increased echocardiographic left ventricular (LV) dimensions and volumes, and impaired LV systolic function. Five (9%) dogs with low B-TauC had retinal abnormalities. Dietary MetC, dietary animal protein source (red/white meat), and age were associated with B-TauC in the final multivariable regression model (P < .001, R2 adj = .39). Low B-TauC suggests that taurine deficiency may play a role in the development of myocardial failure and CHF in ECS. Low D-MetC and diets with red meat as the animal protein source were associated with low B-TauC. Dogs with B-TauC below the normal reference range were older than dogs with normal concentrations.

Postprandial Plasma and Whole Blood Amino Acids Are Largely Indicative of Dietary Amino Acids in Adult Dogs Consuming Diets with Increasing Whole Pulse Ingredient Inclusion

BackgroundPulse ingredients often replace grains in grain-free dog diets owing to their high-protein content. However, research to ascertain the benefit of this modification is limited. ObjectivesThis study aimed to correlate food compounds in 1 corn-inclusive control diet and 3 grain-free diets with increasing inclusions of whole pulses (≤45%; Pulse15, Pulse30, and Pulse45), formulated to meet similar macronutrient and micronutrient targets with postprandial amino acids (AAs) in healthy dogs >20 wk. MethodsDiets were analyzed for biochemical compounds using tandem mass spectrometry. Twenty-eight outdoor-housed, healthy, adult Siberian Huskies were allocated to diet, and meal responses were analyzed at baseline and weeks 2, 4, 8, 16, and 20 with samples collected at fasted and 15, 30, 60, 90, 120, and 180 min after meal presentation. Blood AAs were analyzed by ultra performance liquid chromatography and differences across week, treatment, and time postmeal were analyzed in SAS Studio. Partial least squares regression was performed in SAS Studio using biochemical compounds in the diet as predictor variables and blood AAs as response variables. ResultsIn plasma, Pulse45 had ∼32% greater postprandial Asn than Pulse15, and the control diet had ∼34% greater postprandial Leu and ∼35% greater Pro than Pulse15 (P < 0.05). In whole blood, Pulse30 had ∼23% greater postprandial Lys than the control diet, and the control diet had ∼21% greater postprandial Met and ∼18% greater Pro than Pulse45 and Pulse30, respectively (P < 0.05). Several phospholipids were correlated with postprandial AAs. Compounds in the urea cycle and glycine and serine metabolism were more enriched (P < 0.05) in plasma and whole blood, respectively. ConclusionsIn macronutrient-balanced and micronutrient-balanced canine diets that differ in their inclusion of corn-derived compared with pulse-derived ingredients, postprandial changes in circulating AAs are largely indicative of the dietary AAs. This helps further our understanding of AA metabolism in healthy dogs fed grain-free diets.

Evaluation of the nutrient digestibility at each age in dogs diet by in vitro and in vivo methods.

The objective of this study was to evaluate in vitro predictions of digestibility at each age (puppy, adult, and senior) in dogs of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), gross energy (GE), crude fiber (CF), and ether extract (EE) using dog diets. First, to determine the digestibility of dog diets using pepsin and pancreatin incubations, conduct the in vitro method. Later, 18 mixed-sex beagles were used in this experiment to compare in vivo digestibility. Beagles are divided into 3 groups according to their age and body weight: six puppies (under 1-year-old; 6.21 ± 0.56 kg), six adult dogs (2 to 7 years old; 8.16 ± 0.64 kg), and six senior dogs (over 8 years old; 6.95 ± 1.39 kg). Except for DM in puppies and adult dogs, in all cases, in vitro digestibility values were higher than in vivo digestibility values (p < 0.05). In puppies, there were strong relationships for DM and GE with r2 values of 0.95 and 0.84, respectively, between in vitro and in vivo digestibility. Also, in adult dogs, there were strong relationships for DM and GE with r2 values of 0.97 and 0.84, respectively, between in vitro and in vivo digestibility. However, in senior dogs, there was a lower relationship for DM, OM, CP, GE, CF, and EE with r2 values of 0.18, 0.42, 0.01, 0.02, 0.11, and 0.04, respectively, between in vitro and in vivo digestibility. In conclusion, in vitro, the prediction of nutrient digestibility of DM and GE in puppies and adult dogs seems to have significant potential for practical application. However, additional research is needed to compare senior dogs with the in vitro method.

Dogs under urbanization: Isotopic insight from the Bronze Age Central Plains of China (ca. 2000–1000 BCE)

Although dogs played multifaceted roles during the early stages of urbanization in China’s Central Plains, research remains limited concerning the management of dogs, the dynamics of human–dog relationships, and dogs’ entanglements with the political economy, ritual, and daily life. Here, we compare stable carbon and nitrogen isotope data from 95 dogs and associated human skeletons from 15 Late Neolithic – Bronze Age sites. Results show two distinct dietary patterns in dogs. Early sites (Xinzhai-Erlitou period, 1900–1520 BCE) show more variability in dog diets, indicative of looser approaches to dog management. Later sites (Late Shang-Western Zhou periods, 1320–770 BCE) show a widespread, homogeneous diet among dogs characterized by higher consumption of C4 millet (greater than in humans’ diets), suggesting the possibility of the emergence of specialized, broadly shared dog management practices linked to increased ritual use of dogs. This study also underscores the complexity of management practices, which would have been influenced by site-specific conditions, including environment and available resources, the site’s position in hierarchical settlement networks, and the varying roles of the dogs. Importantly, this study demonstrates that the comparison of isotopic data from broad temporal and spatial contexts can shed light on animal management practices in early urban economic systems and political economies.

Study on the labels of selected cat and dog foods from Türkiye

At first look, the label contains details about the contents and properties of the cat and dog foods. Label information must be included in accordance with national and international requirements. The sufficiency of cat and dog food labelling in Türkiye has not before been evaluated. In this study, the labelling information for 215 chosen cat and dog foods (164 cats and 51 dogs) available in Türkiye was analysed using Turkish national legislation and the Federation of the European Pet Food Industry standards. It was determined that all food labelling information was compliant with Turkish feed legislation. In comparison, only 67.1% of cat and 78% of dog diets included the metabolised energy value on the package. Cat foods have a website at 60.8%, whereas dog foods have 81.7%. It is found that the cat and dog food labels totally comply with Turkish legislation rules. On the other hand, more information may be valuable in enlightening customers. The recommended amount of food per day was unclear in numerous products, which is an area of improvement. In future studies, competencies of the daily nutrition advice information on the labels can be evaluated.