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| Dog Food Flavor Preference |
Abstract
In
this study, food flavor preferences were examined in pet dogs and in
laboratory dogs by feeding the same foods to each group; 3 specially
formulated dry foods differing only in flavor. Three panels of
laboratory dogs were given choices between 2 of the test foods, and
their preferences were determined from quantities eaten. Sixty pet dogs
were given the test foods by their owners in the manner dry food was
usually served. The owners rated their perception of the dog's response
to each test food by using a standard rating scale.
The
laboratory dogs preferred some test foods over others. The pet-dog
owners interpreted their dogs' responses as indicating no preference for
any test food over any other, although individual owners'
interpretations did vary. Some variables were examined in the pet dogs
as a function of the variation in their perceived responses to the test
foods. Variables were selected from diverse aspects of pet dogs;
physical characteristics, feeding regime, behavior toward food, physical
and social environments. Of the variables examined, only the dog's sex
was associated with preferences for 2 of the test foods. None of the
variables were associated with preferences for all 3 foods. Several were
associated with preferences for only one food. The results of this
study indicated a need to examine typical feeding behavior in pet dogs
within the context of the home, and suggested several variables that
appear to influence food flavor preferences.
