How Pet Food Influences on Hyperactive Dogs

This time we´ll review the different characteristics that a food should have (or not) for hyperactive dogs. Certain breeds of dogs historically destined for hunting, herding and rescue such as the Doberman and German Shepherd have been used for these activities precisely because of their high amount of energy. So, logically, they need a diet that is adjusted to the energy levels they use and the amount of activity they do on a daily basis.

When we exercise (both animals and humans) we produce a large amount of free radicals (molecules that are harmful to DNA). A great way for the body to neutralize the oxidative action of free radicals is through the consumption of antioxidants.

Scientific evidence

• Antioxidants

In 2018 the Journal of Animal Science published a study where American foxhounds were evaluated during their hunting season. To do this, all the dogs were divided into two groups: one was fed a balanced food labeled "for high performance"; the other group received a similar diet, but with supplements of antioxidants, vitamins C, E, lutein, zinc, and taurine. During the study, all the dogs were taken hunting for a period of between 2 and 5 hours with a frequency of 2 to 3 times a week.

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At the end, blood samples were taken to evaluate and compare the levels of oxidative stress and other blood metabolites with the samples taken before they started the diet and with others taken throughout the 7 months that the investigation lasted.

It was confirmed dogs consuming a diet rich in antioxidants have lower levels of oxidative stress; however, that group of dogs did not perform better. However, although the increase in antioxidants did not change physical performance, it did improve general health: it was found that, in the course of the research, dogs fed the diet without supplements had a large decrease in their levels of taurine and vitamin E. On the other hand, in the dogs that were given supplements, maintained or improved levels of taurine and vitamin E were observed.

• Protein

Dr. Joseph J. Wakshlag of Cornell University School of Veterinary Medicine focuses his studies on the relationship between protein intake and the health and performance status of active dogs such as the English Greyhound or Siberian Husky.

Wakshlag has stated that a study was conducted focused on analyzing dietary proteins and their ability to preserve musculoskeletal integrity, as well as to promote the maintenance of the levels of total proteins, albumin and red blood cells.

Serum hematocrit and albumin levels tend to decline while a dog is training or engaging in vigorous physical activity, and adequate protein intake is beneficial - this study stated that between 24% and 30% of metabolizable energy in the dog's diet Active ingredients should be highly digestible animal protein, ej.: lamb, beef and chicken.

Professionals Opinions

• Veterinarian Lee Danks conducted in-depth research on canine behavior and feeding, which is summarized:

Protein is frequently an influencer on behavior. High protein diets are believed to lead to increased hyperactivity. Studies in the area often focus on specific amino acid neurotransmitters and hormone precursors as responsible dietary linkages. L-tryptophan (a precursor to serotonin) is unique to dogs: the concentration of this neutral amino acid relative to others in the same group is what appears to have a greater effect on behavior. Factors such as digestibility and carbohydrate intake affect the uptake and transport of L-tryptophan across the blood-brain barrier.

Carbohydrates the type of carbohydrates determines the postprandial state of the animal, the duration of satiety and the relative energy density of the diet. The digestion and absorption of simple monosaccharides affects fluctuations in blood glucose (and the availability of L-tryptophan).

• For her part, Dr. Karen Shaw Becker has given her opinion about food for hyperactive dogs:

'Athletic dogs must consume adequate amounts of antioxidants to avoid the damage that free radicals can produce. Fresh food is a good way to provide antioxidants to dogs with intense periods of activity. Also, according to new research, it is important that all hyperactive dogs consume the right amount of taurine to protect the heart. Very active dogs need a diet rich in nutrients, the protein source must be of excellent quality and of animal origin, and the diet must be relatively high in fat'.

To consider

There are certain nutrients that, as an industry, we must make sure that they are present in a food specially designed for hyperactive dogs or that will go through periods of great physical activity, such as hunting dogs or police dogs.

• Vitamin A and carotenoids: found in the liver, in brightly colored fruits and vegetables like broccoli and carrots.
• Vitamin C: found in citrus fruits, green peppers, and green leafy vegetables.
• Vitamin E: found in nuts and seeds.
• Selenium: it is in protein sources such as fish, chicken, beef and eggs.
• Lutein: in quantity in dark green vegetables like spinach and broccoli.

Dogs that by breed or by activities are in a constant energy drain need a diet that is richer in nutrients. Your body needs certain specifications that, as we have seen in the article, can be achieved by making some adjustments to traditional food formulas. It will be up to the industry, once again, to supply the demand for these canines.

By: All Pet Food