Modern lifestyles and environmental stressors can negatively affect dogs, leading to behavioral disorders such as fear, hyperactivity, and anxiety. These conditions are often linked to altered neuroendocrine function and oxidative stress, impacting welfare and quality of life.
Sechi and colleagues (2016) conducted a randomized controlled clinical study with 69 dogs of various breeds suffering from behavioral disorders related to anxiety and chronic stress. The dogs were divided into two groups: one fed a standard diet and the other a nutraceutical diet for 45 days.
Results revealed significant improvements in the nutraceutical diet group, including increased levels of serotonin, dopamine, and β-endorphins, alongside decreased cortisol and noradrenaline levels. Additionally, oxidative stress markers (dROMs) were reduced, suggesting improved stress resilience, while antioxidant potential (BAP) remained stable.
This study provides the first evidence that targeted nutritional interventions can positively influence stress and neuroendocrine parameters in dogs, opening new avenues for managing anxiety and related behavioral disorders through diet and nutraceuticals.
Source: Sechi, S., Cerbo, A., Canello, S., Guidetti, G., Chiavolelli, F., Fiore, F., & Cocco, R. (2016). Effects in dogs with behavioural disorders of a commercial nutraceutical diet on stress and neuroendocrine parameters. The Veterinary Record, 180, 18–18.
