Composition for use in improving or maintaining the mental health of dogs

Abstract

This disclosure relates to the use of a food composition for improving or maintaining the mental health of dogs, comprising, by weight, i) at least about 0.05% nucleotides and ii) at least about 0.1% oligosaccharides, wherein the oligosaccharides are selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof.

Description

Cross - reference to related applications

[0001] 1. Cross - reference to related applications This application claims the benefit of priority of European Patent Application No. 23168400.2, filed on April 18, 2023, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Technical field

[0002] 2. Technical field Various embodiments of the present disclosure relate to the field of foods and compositions, such as food additives and supplements, and their use. These food compositions are particularly advantageous for use in improving or maintaining mental health, such as cognitive and coping mechanisms, in dogs, especially for dogs. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to foods and compositions for improving or maintaining mental health, such as cognitive and coping mechanisms, particularly in early childhood and old age. These food compositions are particularly advantageous for dogs, especially for dogs, for use in improving or maintaining mental health, such as cognitive and coping mechanisms, in stressful situations particularly in early childhood and old age.

Background art

[0003] 3. Background art Improving or maintaining mental health in dogs is particularly important at the beginning and end of their lives.

[0004] As is known in the art, neurological development in the growth of dogs is affected by genetic predisposition, environment, disease, and nutrition. Nutritional interventions for the development and maintenance of neurocognition in dogs, especially for learning, memory, and motor function challenges, have been undervalued over the years compared to nutritional interventions for humans.

[0005] Currently, data available on the effects of nutrition on neurocognitive development in young dogs or on neurocognitive impairment in older dogs is limited. Studies conducted on unsaturated fatty acids, particularly DHA, suggest that (i) early childhood nutrition may shape early cognitive characteristics (Zicker et al, 2012, J Am Vet Med Assoc, Vol.241:583-594, incorporated herein by reference) and (ii) older dogs may reduce or delay cognitive impairment (PCT application published in International Publication No. 2009 / 088433, incorporated herein by reference). Indeed, the reduction or delay of cognitive impairment remains relevant throughout the lifespan of adult dogs.

[0006] Senior dogs often suffer from some degree of cognitive impairment. In the UK, approximately one-third of dogs showed signs of confusion, restlessness, and decreased enjoyment of life, and one-fifth showed an increased incidence of soiling (Heath et al., 2007, Applied Animal Behaviour Science, Vol.105(4):284-296, incorporated herein by reference). In senior beagles (i.e., 8 years and older), complex blends of antioxidants added to maintenance foods have been shown to delay the onset of cognitive decline and be associated with neuropathological changes (Head et al., 2007, Ann NY Acad, Vol.1114:398-406, incorporated herein by reference).

[0007] Furthermore, nutritional factors can dramatically influence the development of young animals in the early stages of life. A newborn puppy's brain mass is only 10% of that of an adult dog, and significant growth occurs during the first few months of life. DHA is known as a major component of nervous system tissue and is important for brain function.

[0008] In companion animals, there remains a need for food compositions that maintain or improve mental health, including cognitive function and coping mechanisms.

[0009] In canines, there remains a need for food compositions that maintain or improve mental health, including cognitive function and coping mechanisms.

[0010] There remains a need for food compositions that develop or improve mental health, including cognitive function and coping mechanisms, in young dogs, especially puppies.

[0011] Furthermore, there remains a need for food compositions that preserve, maintain, and reduce mental health impairments, such as cognitive function and coping mechanisms, in older dogs.

[0012] This disclosure is intended to satisfy the needs described above.

[0013] This disclosure relates to food compositions for use in maintaining or improving the mental health of dogs. The food compositions of this disclosure include nucleotides and oligosaccharides, such as xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof. Korean Patent Publication No. 101987321 and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 108084 teach food compositions for companion animals, but do not intend food compositions containing nucleotides. International Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 102714 teaches food compositions for companion animals, but discloses compositions having a limited amount of nucleotides, up to 0.02% by weight. [Overview of the project]

[0014] 4. Outline of the Invention The objectives and merits of the disclosed subject matter are described below and are evident therefrom, and will be learned through the implementation of the disclosed subject matter. Further merits of the disclosed subject matter will be realized and achieved by the written description and claims of this specification, as well as by the apparatus specifically indicated in the accompanying drawings.

[0015] This disclosure relates to the use of oral compositions, including complete food compositions, used as food supplements or included as alternatives in food compositions, for maintaining or improving the mental health of dogs. These oral compositions are also referred to herein as “food compositions,” but they are not complete food compositions in themselves. A first aspect of this disclosure relates to a food composition for use in maintaining or improving the mental health of dogs, the food composition comprising, by weight %, (i) at least about 0.05% nucleotides, (ii) about 0.1% to about 0.7% xylooligosaccharides (XOS), and (iii) about 0.3% to about 1% fructooligosaccharides (FOS). In some embodiments, the nucleotides are derived from a source of nucleotides selected from a yeast extract or fraction thereof. In some embodiments, the yeast extract is selected from Kluyveromyces yeast extract or Saccharomyces cerevisae yeast extract or fraction thereof. In some embodiments, the nucleotides include a combination of pyrimidines and purines. In some embodiments, the oligosaccharide is selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the XOS comprises xylose units linked by β-(1,4) bonds at a degree of polymerization (DP) of 2 to 10, and the FOS comprises at least about 50% by weight of short-chain fructooligosaccharides (scFOS) on a dry basis. In some embodiments, the aforementioned food composition further comprises, by weight, (i) about 0.01% to about 0.1% of vitamin E, and / or (ii) about 0.0001% to about 0.001% by weight of beta-carotene, and / or (iii) about 0.1% to about 10% by weight of arginine. In some embodiments, the food composition is a dry composition, a wet composition, or a semi-wet composition. In some embodiments, the food composition is a dry composition. In some embodiments, the food composition is for improving the mental health of puppies. In some embodiments, the food composition is intended to maintain or improve the mental health of adult dogs.In some embodiments, the food composition is intended to maintain the mental health of elderly dogs.

[0016] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a food composition for use in maintaining or improving the mental health of dogs, wherein the food composition comprises, by weight %, i) at least about 0.05% of nucleotides and ii) at least about 0.1% of oligosaccharides, wherein the oligosaccharides are selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the food composition comprises, by weight %, i) about 0.05% to about 0.5% of nucleotides and ii) about 0.1% to about 2% of oligosaccharides, wherein the oligosaccharides are selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the food composition comprises, by weight, (i) about 0.05% to about 0.5% nucleotides, (ii) about 0.1% to about 0.7% xylooligosaccharides (XOS), and / or (iii) about 0.3% to about 1% fructooligosaccharides (FOS).

[0017] According to one embodiment, the disclosure relates to the use of a food composition for maintaining or improving the mental health of dogs, comprising, by weight, i) at least about 0.05% nucleotides and ii) at least about 0.1% oligosaccharides, wherein the oligosaccharides may be selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to the use of a food composition for maintaining or improving cognitive function in dogs, comprising, by weight %, i) at least about 0.05% nucleotides and ii) at least about 0.1% oligosaccharides, wherein the oligosaccharides may be selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the disclosure relates to the use of a food composition for maintaining or improving coping mechanisms in dogs, comprising, by weight, i) at least about 0.05% nucleotides and ii) at least about 0.1% oligosaccharides, wherein the oligosaccharides may be selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof.

[0020] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to the use of a food composition for maintaining or improving the mental health of dogs, comprising, by weight, i) about 0.05% to about 0.5% nucleotides and ii) about 0.1% to about 2% oligosaccharides, wherein the oligosaccharides may be selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the disclosure relates to the use of a food composition for maintaining or improving cognitive function in dogs, comprising, by weight %, i) about 0.05% to about 0.5% nucleotides and ii) about 0.1% to about 2% oligosaccharides, wherein the oligosaccharides may be selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to the use of a food composition for maintaining or improving coping mechanisms in dogs, comprising, by weight, i) about 0.05% to about 0.5% nucleotides and ii) about 0.1% to about 2% oligosaccharides, wherein the oligosaccharides may be selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof.

[0023] Another aspect of this disclosure is, in weight percent, (i) Approximately 0.05% to 0.5% nucleotides, (ii) about 0.1% to about 0.7% xylooligosaccharides (XOS), and / or (iii) Regarding the use of food compositions containing approximately 0.3% to approximately 1% fructooligosaccharides.

[0024] In some embodiments of the food composition, the nucleotide may be derived from a source of nucleotides selected from yeast extracts or fractions thereof, particularly yeast extracts selected from Kluyveromyces yeast extract or Saccharomyces cerevisae yeast extract or fractions thereof.

[0025] In some embodiments of the food composition, the nucleotide comprises a combination of pyrimidine and purine.

[0026] In some embodiments of the food composition, the oligosaccharide may be selected from xylooligosaccharide (XOS), fructooligosaccharide (FOS), and combinations thereof.

[0027] In some embodiments of the food composition, the XOS may contain XOS consisting of xylose units linked by β-(1,4) bonds at a degree of polymerization (DP) of 2 to 10, and the FOS may contain at least about 50% short-chain fructooligosaccharide (scFOS) by weight% of FOS in the food composition on a dry matter basis.

[0028] In some embodiments, the food composition - by weight, about 0.01% to about 0.1% vitamin E, and / or - by weight, about 0.0001% to about 0.001% beta-carotene, and / or - by weight, about 0.1% to about 10% arginine.

[0029] In some embodiments, the food composition may be a dry composition, a moist composition, or a semi-moist composition, particularly a dry composition.

[0030] In some embodiments, the food composition is for use in improving mental health such as cognitive function and coping mechanisms in puppies.

[0031] In some embodiments, the food composition is intended for use in adult dogs to improve or maintain mental health, such as cognitive function and coping mechanisms.

[0032] In some embodiments, the food composition is intended to maintain mental health, such as cognitive function and coping mechanisms, in older dogs.

[0033] Another aspect of this disclosure is a kit for producing food compositions for maintaining or improving mental health, such as cognitive function and coping mechanisms, in dogs. (i) Sources of nucleotides, (ii) relating to the use of a kit comprising a source of oligosaccharides selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof.

[0034] Another aspect of this disclosure is a method for producing a food composition for maintaining or improving mental health, such as cognitive function and coping mechanisms, in dogs. a) - Nucleotide supply source, - Mixing oligosaccharide sources selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof, b) The present invention relates to a method comprising heating the mixture to produce a food composition.

[0035] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for maintaining or improving the mental health of dogs, comprising (a) supplying a food composition comprising, by weight, at least, i) at least about 0.05% nucleotides and ii) at least about 0.1% oligosaccharides, wherein the oligosaccharides may be selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof, and (b) administering an effective amount of the food composition to a dog.

[0036] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a method for maintaining or improving cognitive function in dogs, comprising (a) supplying a food composition comprising, by weight, at least i) at least about 0.05% nucleotides and ii) at least about 0.1% oligosaccharides, wherein the oligosaccharides may be selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof, and (b) administering an effective amount of the food composition to a canine animal.

[0037] In one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a method for maintaining or improving a canine coping mechanism, comprising (a) supplying a food composition comprising, by weight, at least i) at least about 0.05% nucleotides and ii) at least about 0.1% oligosaccharides, wherein the oligosaccharides may be selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof, and (b) administering an effective amount of the food composition to a canine animal.

[0038] In some embodiments, the use of the food composition may be for maintaining or improving mental health, such as cognitive function and coping mechanisms, in puppies.

[0039] In some embodiments, the use of the food composition may be for maintaining or improving mental health, such as cognitive function and coping mechanisms, in adult dogs.

[0040] In some embodiments, the use of the food composition may be for maintaining or improving mental health, such as cognitive function and coping mechanisms, in aged canids.

[0041] It should be understood that both the general description above and the detailed description below are illustrative and descriptive only, and do not limit the embodiments disclosed in the claims. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0042] 5. Modes for Carrying Out the Invention While some oligosaccharides, such as xylooligosaccharides (XOS), short-chain fructooligosaccharides (scFOS), and nucleotides, are thought to have beneficial effects on gut health individually and independently, their combined use has not yet been studied in animals.

[0043] This disclosure describes the first in vivo clinical study reporting the combined effects of nucleotide and oligosaccharide sources on mental health, including cognitive function and coping mechanisms, in canines, wherein the oligosaccharides are selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof.

[0044] This efficacy demonstrates that a combination of (i) nucleotides and (ii) oligosaccharides selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), and galactooligosaccharides (GOS) may have a direct positive effect on the mental health of dogs, especially puppies.

[0045] In particular, the effects of this combination of active ingredients on maintaining or improving mental health, including cognitive function, coping mechanisms, or a combination thereof, in canines, especially puppies, have been reported herein.

[0046] As shown in the examples, food compositions comprising combinations of ingredients disclosed herein have a beneficial effect on the mental health of dogs, including, but not limited to, cognitive function and coping mechanisms, and may further include, temperament and response to stimuli, executive function and memory, and their social behavior and interactions. As shown in the examples, food compositions comprising combinations of ingredients disclosed herein have a beneficial effect on the cognitive function of dogs, which is demonstrated herein through the following cognitive function and coping mechanism tests: (i) warm-up tests, (ii) pointing gesture tests, (iii) vocalizations during memory tests, (iv) boldness tests to novel objects, and (v) surprise events: including reactivity and fear response tests. The object of this disclosure is to provide foods and compositions such as food additives and supplements, and their uses. These food compositions are particularly favorable for use in dogs, especially canines, to improve or maintain mental health, including cognitive function and coping mechanisms. These food compositions are particularly favorable, for example, in stressful situations, puppies, and / or elderly dogs.

[0047] To be clear rather than restrictive, this detailed explanation is divided into the following sub-sections.

[0048] 5.1 Definition 5.2 Food Compositions 5.3 Methods for maintaining or improving the mental health of dogs 5.1 Definition The terms used herein generally have their usual meanings in the art, within the context of this subject matter, and in the specific context in which each term is used. Specific terms are defined below to provide additional guidance for describing the compositions and methods of the subject matter of this disclosure, as well as their manufacture and use.

[0049] Where used in this disclosure, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include the plural form unless otherwise interpreted by the context. Thus, for example, a reference to "compound" includes mixtures of compounds.

[0050] As used herein, the terms “include,” “including,” “comprisese,” “comprising,” or any other variation thereof are intended to mean non-exclusive inclusion, and a process, method, article, or apparatus containing a list of elements does not necessarily contain only those elements, but may also contain elements not expressly enumerated or elements specific to that process, method, article, or apparatus.

[0051] The terms “about” or “approximately” mean within an acceptable margin of error for a particular value determined by a person skilled in the art, which depends in part on how the value is measured or determined, i.e., on the limitations of the measuring system. For example, “about” can mean within three or more standard deviations according to the practice of the art. Alternatively, “about” can mean a range of up to 20%, preferably up to 10%, more preferably up to 5%, and even more preferably up to 1% of a given value. Also, particularly with respect to a system or process, the term can mean within one order of magnitude, preferably up to five times the value, and more preferably up to twice the value.

[0052] Furthermore, the terms “at least” and “range” encompass the values ​​listed below. For example, “at least 40 ppm” should be understood to also encompass “40 ppm.” Unless otherwise specified, quantities (in particular weight percentage, parts per million (ppm), or milliequivalents / kg (mEq / kg) of fat) are expressed herein by weight on a product or composition basis, e.g., the preservative food composition according to this disclosure. In this disclosure, ranges are abbreviated to avoid the need to describe every single value within that range. Any suitable value within the range can be selected, where appropriate, as the upper limit, lower limit, or end of the range. For example, the range 1–10 represents the end values ​​of 1 and 10, as well as the intermediate values ​​of 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9, as well as all the intermediate ranges encompassed within 1–10, such as 2–5, 2–8, and 7–10.

[0053] In this specification, references to “embodiments,” “multiple embodiments,” “one embodiment,” and “various embodiments” indicate that the embodiments described may include certain features, structures, or characteristics, but not all embodiments may necessarily include certain features, structures, or characteristics. Furthermore, these terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. In addition, where certain features, structures, or characteristics are described in relation to an embodiment, it is submitted that, whether explicitly described or not, these features, structures, or characteristics will be affected in relation to other embodiments, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. After reading the description, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art how to implement this disclosure in alternative embodiments.

[0054] As used herein, the terms "dog" or "canine animal" refer to Afghan Hound, Airedale, Akita Inu, Alaskan Malamute, Basset Hound, Beagle, Belgian Shepherd, Bloodhound, Border Collie, Border Terrier, Borzoi, Boxer, Bulldog, Bull Terrier, Cairn Terrier, Chihuahua, Chow Chow, Cocker Spaniel, Collie, Corgi, Dachshund, Dalmatian, Doberman, English Setter, Fox Terrier, German Shepherd, Golden Retriever, Great Dane, Greyhound, Brussels Griffon, Irish Setter, Irish Wing This category includes animals, including companion animals, selected from a group of recognized dog breeds (some of which are further subdivided), such as the Rufhound, King Charles Spaniel, Labrador Retriever, Lhasa Apso, Mastiff, Newfoundland, Old English Sheepdog, Papillon, Pekingese, Pointer, Pomeranian, Poodle, Pug, Rottweiler, Saint Bernard, Saluki, Samoyed, Schnauzer, Scottish Terrier, Shetland Sheepdog, Shih Tzu, Siberian Husky, Skye Terrier, Springer Spaniel, West Highland Terrier, Whippet, Yorkshire Terrier, and others.

[0055] As used herein, the terms “puppy” or “multiple puppies” refer to dogs in their early stages of development, and in particular, dogs from birth to the beginning of adulthood, typically around 8 to 24 months of age, depending on the breed and expected adult weight. In some preferred embodiments, puppies may be less than about 6 months of age.

[0056] As used herein, the terms “adult dog” and “grown-up canine” may be used interchangeably herein and mean a canine animal that has passed puberty and reached its point of biological maturity.

[0057] As used herein, the terms “senior dog,” “elderly dog,” and “elderly canine animal” may be used interchangeably herein and mean a canine animal that has exceeded 70% of the average lifespan of its particular species and / or has bred a breed within that species. For example, if the average lifespan of a given dog breed is 10 years, then any dog ​​of that breed that is more than 7 years old would be considered “elderly” for the purposes of this specification.

[0058] As used herein, the term “healthy aging” refers to dogs that do not have any known diseases associated with cognitive impairment or loss of consciousness.

[0059] As used herein, the terms “mental health” or “mental state” refer to a state of mental well-being that enables an individual to cope with the stresses of life, recognize their abilities, learn well, work well, and contribute to their community. It is an integral part of health and well-being that supports the ability of individuals and groups to make decisions and to build relationships. Mental health includes emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It can influence how we think, feel, learn, and act (commonly referred to as “cognitive functions”). It can also help us determine how we cope with stress, relate to others, and make choices (commonly referred to as coping mechanisms). According to this disclosure, mental health includes, but is not limited to, cognitive functions, coping mechanisms, and combinations thereof.

[0060] As used herein, the terms “cognitive function” or “multiple cognitive functions” refer to any intelligent brain process or state involved in learning and / or memory, including but not limited to attention, understanding, recognition, reasoning, judgment, intuition, information acquisition, information processing, working memory, short-term memory, long-term memory, forward memory, retrograde memory, memory retrieval, discriminative learning, decision-making, inhibitory response control, attentional set-shifting, delayed reinforcement learning, reverse learning, temporal integration of spontaneous behavior, and expression of awareness of the surroundings and self-care. The cognitive function of canine animals may be assessed according to any method known in the art, including the use of a T-maze or any other maze in which the animal uses spatial information. Other tests known in the prior art, such as problem-solving tasks, novel object recognition tasks, and olfactory recognition tasks, may also be used to assess cognitive function. Cognitive function may also be measured using positron emission tomography (PET), functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), or any other imaging technique capable of measuring brain function. In animals, cognitive function can also be measured using electrophysiological techniques. In certain embodiments, cognitive function can also be assessed according to one or more of the cognitive tests disclosed herein.

[0061] As used herein, the terms “coping mechanisms” or “multiple coping mechanisms” refer to any intelligent brain processes or states involved in an object’s response, reaction, behavioral adaptation, or management of a given situation, stimulus, or any physiological and / or psychological stress. Coping mechanisms may vary, for example, according to individual experiences, childhood exposures, and cognitive functions that influence the perception of a potential stressful event and the physiological and behavioral responses thereto.

[0062] As used herein, the term “maintaining the mental health” of a canine animal means preventing, reducing, or delaying a decline in the mental health of that canine animal. Determining whether a canine animal’s mental health is being maintained can be done by any method known in the art, in particular by one or more of the cognitive and coping mechanism tests disclosed herein.

[0063] As used herein, the term “maintaining cognitive function” in a canine animal means preventing, reducing, or delaying the decline of the cognitive function of the canine animal. Determining whether to maintain cognitive function in a canine can be carried out by any method known in the art, in particular by one or more of the cognitive tests disclosed herein.

[0064] As used herein, the term “maintaining coping mechanisms” in a canine animal means preventing, reducing, or delaying a decline in such coping mechanisms. Determining the maintenance of a canine animal’s coping mechanisms may be carried out by any method known in the art, in particular by one or more of the coping mechanism tests disclosed herein.

[0065] As used herein, the term “improves mental health” in canines refers to an improvement in mental health-related processes or conditions compared to control canines. For example, testing whether a test food composition enhances the mental health of dogs includes evaluating the mental health of dogs given the test food composition and comparing them to the mental health of dogs of the same age range given a control food composition. Determining the enhancement of a dog’s mental health may be carried out by any method known in the art, in particular, in accordance with one or more of the cognitive and coping mechanism tests disclosed herein.

[0066] As used herein, the term “improves cognitive function” in canines refers to an improvement in processes or conditions related to cognitive function compared to control canines. For example, testing whether a test food composition enhances the cognitive function of dogs includes evaluating the cognitive function of dogs given the test food composition and comparing it to the cognitive function of dogs of the same age range given a control food composition. Determining the enhancement of cognitive function in dogs may be carried out by any method known in the art, in particular in accordance with one or more of the cognitive tests disclosed herein.

[0067] As used herein, the term “improve coping mechanisms” in canines refers to an improvement in a process or state related to coping mechanisms compared to a control canine. For example, testing whether a test food composition enhances the coping mechanisms of a dog includes evaluating the coping mechanisms of the dog given the test food composition and comparing them to the coping mechanisms of dogs of the same age range given a control food composition. Determining the enhancement of a dog’s coping mechanisms may be carried out by any method known in the art, in particular in accordance with one or more of the coping mechanism tests disclosed herein.

[0068] The term “ppm” or “parts per million” is used herein in accordance with its conventional meaning. More precisely, it refers herein to the weight (mg / kg) of the preservative food composition or the animal food containing the preservative food composition relative to its total weight (unless otherwise indicated).

[0069] Where used herein, unless otherwise specified, the terms "by weight" or "by weight" mean the weight percentage of the food composition on a dry matter basis.

[0070] As used herein, the term “maintain” also includes reducing the likelihood of a condition occurring or recurring.

[0071] As used herein, the term “effective amount” refers to the amount of an ingredient sufficient to achieve the intended compositional or physiological effect when present in a composition. It is understood that various biological factors can affect a substance’s ability to perform its intended task. Therefore, in some cases, the “effective amount” may depend on these biological factors. Furthermore, while the achievement of a physiological effect can be measured by those skilled in the art using evaluations known in the art, it is recognized that individual variability may make the achievement of a physiological effect a subjective judgment. Determining the effective amount is well within the scope of those skilled in the art of nutritional science.

[0072] As used herein, “administer” and “to administer” refer to the method by which the composition is presented to the subject. Most preferably, as used herein, the administration of a food composition may be achieved by an oral method.

[0073] As used herein, “oral administration” refers to a route of administration that can be achieved in particular by swallowing or inhaling the food composition.

[0074] As used herein, “food composition” refers to any molecule or substance, or combination of mixtures thereof, that may be added to food, including beverages, to prevent undesirable chemical changes. Food compositions disclosed herein may be dry foods or wet foods. In particular, animal food product food compositions may be dried animal food products or dry food compositions.

[0075] As used herein, the term “nutritionally complete” means an animal food that contains all known and necessary nutrients in appropriate amounts and proportions, for example, as recognized in the field of animal nutrition and based on the recommendations of the competent authority, for the intended recipient of the animal food. Such foods can thus serve as a source of food intake to sustain life without the addition of supplemental nutrients. Nutritionally complete food products may include carriers, diluents, or excipients. Depending on the intended use, the carriers, diluents, or excipients may be selected to be suitable for use by animals. As used herein, “nutritional support” means that this disclosure may be used to overcome nutritional deficiencies in the diet of a companion animal, as a result, the companion animal may have a complete daily nutritional food intake.

[0076] As used herein, the term “functional foods” refers to food products that provide essential nutrients for maintaining health. These food compositions often contain biologically active or biologically available compounds such as probiotics, amino acids, multivitamins, and antioxidants, and are found to be useful in treating diseases and disorders or maintaining normal health. Examples of functional foods include functionally complete foods and functional complements.

[0077] As used herein, the terms “dried animal food product” or “dried food composition” generally refer to a food product or composition having a water content of less than about 12% by weight, and generally less than about 7% by weight. Dried animal food products may be formed by an extrusion molding process. In some embodiments, a dried animal food product may be formed from a core and a coating, forming a coated dried animal food, also called a coated dried animal food product. Naturally, when the term “dried animal food product” is used, it may refer to an uncoated dried animal food product or a coated dried animal food. A dried animal food composition may be kibble. In certain embodiments, for example, but not limited to, kibble may include particles, pellets, pet food fragments, dehydrated meat, meat analogues, vegetables, and combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, for example, but not limited to, kibble may include pet snacks such as meat or vegetable jerky, rawhide, and biscuits.

[0078] Dried food compositions can be manufactured by mixing ingredients and kneading together to produce a consistent dough that can be cooked. Generally, they can be the final product of a process that includes an extrusion step followed by a drying step. The process of producing dried pet food can usually be carried out by baking and / or extrusion molding. The dough can typically be fed into a machine called an expander and / or extruder, which uses pressurized steam or hot water to cook the raw materials. Inside the extruder, the dough is subjected to extreme pressure and high temperature. The dough is then extruded through a die (particularly holes for sizing and shaping) and can then be cut using a knife. The expanded dough pieces are processed into dried products such as kibble by passing them through a dryer, which reduces the moisture content to a predetermined target value and ensures food stability until consumption. The product / kibble can then be sprayed with fats, oils, minerals, vitamins, mixtures of natural extracts, and flavorings and sealed in packaging as needed.

[0079] As used herein, the term "kibble" includes particulate pellet-like components of animal feed, such as dog and cat feed, which typically have a moisture or water content of less than about 12% by weight relative to the total weight of the kibble. The texture of kibble can range from hard to soft. The internal structure of kibble can range from bloated to dense.

[0080] As used herein, the terms “core” or “core matrix” mean particulate pellets of a dried animal food product, i.e., kibble, which are typically formed from a core matrix of components. The particulate pellets can be coated to form a coating on the core, which can be a coated dried animal food product. The core can be uncoated or partially coated. In one uncoated embodiment, the particulate pellets may comprise the entire dried animal food product. The core may comprise farinas material, proteinaceous material, and mixtures and combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the core may comprise a core matrix of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats.

[0081] As used herein, the term “coating” typically means partial or complete covering of a core, covering at least a portion of the surface, for example, the surface of the core. A core may be partially covered with a coating, in which case only a portion of the core is covered, while another portion of the core is not covered and is therefore exposed. In another embodiment, the entire core may be covered, thereby preventing the entire core from being exposed. Thus, the coating can cover from a negligible amount to the entire surface. In one embodiment, the food compositions of this disclosure may be suitable for the preparation of dried animal food products by coating.

[0082] As used herein, the terms “moist animal food product” or “moist food composition” generally refer to a food product or composition having a water content of more than about 12% by weight, and usually more than about 30% by weight. In certain embodiments, moist food consists of chunks, more specifically, chunks in gravy form. In certain embodiments, moist food consists of chunks and gravy, chunks of jelly, loaf, mousse, terrine, and bite form. Examples of “chunk and gravy” products include pre-formed meat particles prepared by making a meat emulsion and passing this meat emulsion through a muzzle under pressure and then cooking. Products such as cooked meat are diced into chunks and finally mixed with weight or flavorings. The two components are then filled into containers, usually cans or pouches, which are seamed or sealed and sterilized. In contrast to ground loaf, chunk and gravy compositions have individual chunks (i.e., minced meat and grain fragments) that are physically separated during cooking. These individual particles are present in a gravity-type liquid in the final container. When serving, chunks and gravy products can flow out of the can and easily mix with other dry products. While chunked and gravy products allow for better integrity of individual ingredients, the uneven formulation of chunked and gravy products may be undesirable to consumers.

[0083] Moist food compositions are generally packaged in can-like containers and are considered “moist” in appearance due to the moisture they contain. Two types of moist compositions are generally known in the art. The first is known in the art as “ground loaf.” Loaf products are typically prepared by contacting a mixture of constituent elements under heat to produce an essentially homogeneous intracellular honeycomb-type mass or ground loaf. The mass of ground loaf is then packaged in a cylindrical container such as a can. During packaging, the ground loaf takes the shape of the container so that the ground loaf must be cut when serving companion animals.

[0084] In certain embodiments, a moist food composition can be packaged. In this way, consumers can identify the ingredients in the food product from the packaging and confirm that it is suitable for the particular pet in question. The packaging may be metal, plastic, paper, or card.

[0085] As used herein, the terms “semi-moist food,” “semi-moist food composition,” or “semi-moist food product” refer particularly to food compositions having an intermediate moisture content of about 12% to about 30% by weight. Thus, such semi-moist food compositions are generally the final products of processes that enable intermediate moisture content values ​​between dry and moist foods. In some embodiments, the process may include a step of adding a humectant. In some embodiments, the process includes an extrusion step using superheated steam (SHS) and subsequent processing steps. In some embodiments, the semi-moist food according to this disclosure contains more than about 12% by weight and up to about 30% by weight of moisture. Exemplarily, semi-moist food compositions have a moisture content of about 11% to about 25% by weight.

[0086] As used herein, “extruded product” refers to any product, such as animal food, that has been processed by being fed through an extruder or pelletizing process. Extruded products may be dry or wet. Preferably, the extruded product is a dry extruded product. In certain embodiments, the extruded product is a dry animal food product, in particular kibble. In one embodiment of extrusion, kibble can be formed by an extrusion process, in which a starch-containing raw material is extruded under heat and pressure to gelatinize the starch and form a pelletized kibble shape, which can form a core. Any type of extruder can be used, and non-limiting examples include single-screw extruders and twin-screw extruders.

[0087] As used herein, the term “protein source” may include “animal protein source,” “plant protein source,” or any other amino acid source, or a combination thereof. According to some embodiments, the protein source may include or consist of hydrolyzed proteins, for example, partially or completely hydrolyzed proteins. Methods for partially or completely hydrolyzing proteins are well known. Hydrolyzates may be produced by any known chemical or enzymatic method, such as the methods disclosed in U.S. Patents 5,589,357, 4,879,131, 5,039,532 and European Patent No. 1,236,405, which are incorporated herein by reference in non-limiting examples. According to some embodiments, the protein source is not hydrolyzed.

[0088] As used herein, the term “amino acid” may refer to any natural or non-natural amino acid. In a non-exclusive form, amino acids may be selected from alanine, arginine, asparagine, aspartic acid, cysteine, glutamic acid, glutamine, glycine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, proline, serine, taurine, threonine, tryptophan, tyrosine, and valine, or combinations thereof.

[0089] As used herein, the term “amino acid source” means a material containing amino acids. Such amino acid sources include, but may not be limited to, plant proteins, animal proteins, proteins derived from single-cell organisms, and free amino acids.

[0090] As used herein, the term “animal protein” refers to a protein source derived from animals. Such animal proteins include, but are not limited to, meat (e.g., pork, beef, or veal), poultry (e.g., chicken), fish, organs (e.g., liver, spleen, or heart), viscera (e.g., viscera of chicken or pork), and combinations thereof. Animal proteins can be selected in a non-exclusive manner from poultry, beef, chicken, chicken meal, lamb, lamb meal, dried eggs, fish, fishmeal, meat and bone meal, meat by-products, meat meal, turkey, plasma, or bone marrow.

[0091] As plant protein or plant-based protein, plant proteins can be selected in a non-exclusive manner from soybeans, chickpeas, peas, corn gluten, rice, insects, lentils, or barley.

[0092] As used herein, the term “antioxidant” refers to any molecule, composition, or product that delays or prevents the oxidation of animal food products, particularly oxidizable fats. The antioxidant food compositions or products of this disclosure may prevent or delay the oxidation process. Furthermore, antioxidants may preserve the fresh attributes and nutritional quality of the corresponding food composition or product. The antioxidants of this disclosure may include or consist of synthetic or natural antioxidants. Advantageously, the food composition or product may contain a smaller amount of synthetic antioxidants. According to some embodiments, such antioxidant food compositions may contain a minimum or undetectable amount of synthetic antioxidants. For example, such antioxidant food compositions may contain less than about 1% by weight of synthetic antioxidants of the total weight of the corresponding composition. Advantageously, the antioxidants that may be present in such food compositions or products consist solely of non-synthetic (i.e., natural) antioxidants.

[0093] As used herein, the term “synthetic antioxidant” refers to a chemically synthesized, non-natural compound that can be added to food as a preservative to help prevent lipid oxidation. Thus, in a non-exclusive form, this term includes the following compounds: butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), TBHQ (tert-butylhydroxyquinone), propyl gallate (PG), dodecyl gallate (DG), octyl gallate (OG), and chelating agents such as ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA).

[0094] As used herein, the term “natural antioxidant” refers to a naturally occurring compound that possesses antioxidant properties.

[0095] The “antioxidant” properties of a given product or composition of this disclosure can be evaluated by determining its ability to delay or prevent the oxidation of molecules such as lipids, lipoproteins, proteins, or DNA over a given length.

[0096] As used herein, the term “fat” refers to the total amount of digestible, partially digestible, and indigestible fats or oils present in embodiments of this disclosure, in particular a food or composition whose fatty acid formation should be prevented or delayed. As used herein, the terms “lipid,” “fat,” and “oil” are synonymous.

[0097] The components of oils and fats are known in chemistry to have a tendency to absorb and react with oxygen. Rancidity occurs primarily from the products formed during oxidation. Dissolved or absorbed oxygen usually reacts first to form peroxides. The formation of peroxides is accelerated by moisture, heat, light, or catalysts. Low molecular weight aldehydes, ketones, and acids are formed in further decomposition, and these materials give oils or fats undesirable odors and tastes.

[0098] For quality assessment, methods known to those skilled in the art may be used, such as peroxide value measurement (PV), hexanal value measurement, ferric thiocyanate method (FTC), thiobarbiturate method (TBA), anisidine index measurement, conjugated diene measurement, or any method for measuring the stability of oxygen cylinders or rancimats, etc. Accordingly, according to a preferred embodiment, antioxidant properties can be evaluated by measuring the major primary products (i.e., hydroperoxides) resulting from lipid oxidation, as well as secondary compounds (including alkanes, alkenes, aldehydes, ketones, alcohols, esters, acids, and hydrocarbons). In a non-exclusive form, these antioxidant properties can be evaluated by measuring the "peroxide value" (PV) or hexanal value.

[0099] As used herein, “peroxide value” (PV) refers to a marker for primary oxidative degradation compounds of fatty acids. Otherwise, PV is used for the quantification of primary fatty acid products. The peroxide value of fresh food products is less than about 10 milliequivalents / kg (mEq / kg), but if the peroxide value is about 20 to about 40 mEq / kg, the food is considered rancid. According to a preferred embodiment, these values ​​should be measured at the end of the shelf life. According to one embodiment, a value of up to 10 mEq / kg is considered rancid. Methods for analyzing the PV of animal food products are well known to those skilled in the art. Exemplarily, those skilled in the art may use NF EN ISO 3960 (April 2017 edition).

[0100] As used herein, “hexanal value” refers to a marker of the secondary oxidative degradation compound of fatty acids. A hexanal value of fresh food products is less than approximately 15 ppm, but if the hexanal value is between approximately 15 and 40 ppm, the food is considered rancid. According to a preferred embodiment, these values ​​should also be measured at the end of the shelf life. According to one embodiment, a value of up to approximately 15 ppm is considered rancid. Methods for analyzing hexanal levels in animal foods are well known to those skilled in the art. Exemplarily, those skilled in the art may use the AOCS method Cg4-94 (AOCS.1997).

[0101] As used herein, and unless otherwise specified, the term “nucleotide” may particularly refer to a 5' nucleotide, which is a nucleotide having a phosphate group at the 5' position of ribose. Preferably, “nucleotide” is understood to be a subunit of deoxyribonucleic acid (”DNA”) or ribonucleic acid (”RNA”). Such 5' nucleotides can be obtained, for example, by processing the starting material with a 5' nucleotidase and / or phosphatase. Thus, in a non-exclusive manner, the 5' nucleotides according to this disclosure may be selected from adenosine monophosphate (AMP), guanosine monophosphate (GMP), inosine monophosphate (IMP), uridine monophosphate (UMP), cytidine monophosphate (CMP), thymidine monophosphate (TMP), xanthosine monophosphate (XMP), or a mixture of two or more thereof. For example, a nucleotide may be AMP, GMP, or IMP, or a mixture thereof, or a nucleotide may be GMP alone, or IMP alone, or a mixture thereof.

[0102] As used herein, and unless otherwise specified, the term “nucleotide source” refers to any source, in particular a natural source, which is natural, processed, or provided as a raw material containing the nucleotides defined above. For example, a nucleotide source suitable for the present disclosure may be hydrolyzed, for example, partially or completely. For example, a nucleotide source suitable for the present disclosure may include or consist of biological extracts, such as nucleotide sources of bacterial or yeast extracts. In a non-exclusive form, yeast may be selected from Kluyveromyces or Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Examples of such nucleotide sources include, or may consist of, the petMOD® and / or pet petMOD® S supply material sources commercialized by PROSOL SPA. Quality control of yeast extract nucleotides can be achieved by any method known in the art, such as ion-pair high-performance liquid chromatography.

[0103] Furthermore, as used herein, the term “polynucleotide” refers to a polymeric form of nucleotides of any length, which are either ribonucleotides or deoxynucleotides, and includes both double-stranded DNA and single-stranded DNA, as well as RNA. Thus, the terms “nucleotide” and “5' nucleotide” are used separately from polynucleotides throughout this specification.

[0104] As used herein, and unless otherwise specified, the term “oligosaccharide” refers to a compound containing two or more monosaccharide units linked by glycosidic bonds. Therefore, it can refer to all types of oligosaccharides, including those found in natural and synthetic sources, including those obtained via microorganisms.

[0105] In the context of this disclosure, and in particular in the food compositions and products of this disclosure, oligosaccharides that may be considered include those selected from gluco-oligosaccharides, galactooligosaccharides, fructooligosaccharides, manno-oligosaccharides, arabino-oligosaccharides, xylo-oligosaccharides, or any combination thereof.

[0106] Examples of oligosaccharides may further include functional oligosaccharides. Functional oligosaccharide compositions can be produced, for example, by combining one or more sugars with one or more functional compounds in the presence of a catalyst.

[0107] More specifically, particularly in the context of combinations with nucleotides, the oligosaccharides specifically considered are selected from galactooligosaccharides (GOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), xylooligosaccharides (XOS), or any combination thereof.

[0108] The oligosaccharides according to this disclosure may be characterized in particular based on the types of oligosaccharides present and / or the degree of polymerization (DP). The oligosaccharide content of the reaction products resulting from polymerization can be determined, for example, by a combination of high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and spectrophotometric methods. For example, the average degree of polymerization (DP) of oligosaccharides can be determined as the number average of species containing 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10-15, and more than 15 anhydrous sugar monomer units.

[0109] As used herein, the term “long oligosaccharide” refers to an oligosaccharide composition having an average degree of polymerization (DP) of about 8, about 9, about 10, about 11, about 12, about 13, about 14, about 15, about 16, about 17, about 18, about 19, or about 20.

[0110] As used herein, the term “short oligosaccharide” refers to an oligosaccharide having an average degree of polymerization (DP) of about 2, about 3, about 4, about 5, about 6, or about 7. In particular, short oligosaccharides may refer to short-chain fructooligosaccharides (scFOS). Examples of scFOS include 1-kestose, nistose, 1F-β-fructofuranosylnistose, or combinations thereof. For example, the scFOS according to this disclosure is a short-chain fructooligosaccharide (scFOS) obtained from sucrose, consisting of a combination of 1-ketose (GF2) (about 37%), nistose (GF3) (about 53%), and 1F-β-fructofuranosylnistose (GF4) (about 10%). GF2, GF3, and GF4 are formed by sucrose (glucose-fructose) molecules linked to one, two, or three fructose units, respectively, which are added to the fructose units of sucrose via β2-1 glycosidic bonds.

[0111] As used herein, and unless otherwise specified, the term “arginine” may refer to any arginine or arginine source, in particular any L-arginine or L-arginine source that may be used synthetically or naturally. Food components that may contain L-arginine in significant amounts include, for example, nuts, nut pastes and / or nut flours, seeds, seed pastes and / or seed flours, or gelatin. For example, L-arginine may be derived from any available arginine source, such as Arachis hypogaea (peanuts), Juglans regia (walnuts), Prunus amygdalus (almonds), Corylus avellana (hazelnuts), Glycine max (soybeans), Carya illinoensis (pecans), Amacardium occidentale (cashews), and Macadamia integrifolia, M. tetraphylla (madadamia nuts).

[0112] 5.2 Food Compositions This specification provides food compositions for use in canine animals to maintain or improve mental health, including cognitive function and coping mechanisms, including (i) improving the mental health of puppies, (ii) improving or maintaining the mental health of adult dogs, and (iii) maintaining the mental health of elderly dogs.

[0113] A first aspect of this disclosure relates to a food composition for use in maintaining or improving the mental health of dogs, the food composition comprising, by weight %, (i) at least about 0.05% nucleotides, (ii) about 0.1% to about 0.7% xylooligosaccharides (XOS), and (iii) about 0.3% to about 1% fructooligosaccharides (FOS). In some embodiments, the nucleotides are derived from a source of nucleotides selected from a yeast extract or a fraction thereof. In some embodiments, the yeast extract is selected from Kluyveromyces yeast extract or Saccharomyces cerevisae yeast extract or a fraction thereof. In some embodiments, the nucleotides include a combination of pyrimidine and purine. In some embodiments, the oligosaccharides are selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the XOS comprises xylose units linked by β-(1,4) bonds at a degree of polymerization (DP) of 2 to 10, and the FOS comprises short-chain fructooligosaccharides (scFOS) at least about 50% by weight of the FOS in the food composition on a dry basis. In some embodiments, the food composition further comprises, by weight, (i) about 0.01% to about 0.1% of vitamin E, and / or (ii) about 0.0001% to about 0.001% by weight of beta-carotene, and / or (iii) about 0.1% to about 10% by weight of arginine. In some embodiments, the food composition is a dry composition, a wet composition, or a semi-wet composition. In some embodiments, the food composition is a dry composition. In some embodiments, the food composition is for improving the mental health of puppies. In some embodiments, the food composition is for maintaining or improving the mental health of adult dogs. In some embodiments, the food composition is intended to maintain the mental health of elderly dogs.

[0114] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a food composition for use in maintaining or improving the mental health of dogs, wherein the food composition comprises, by weight %, i) at least about 0.05% of nucleotides and ii) at least about 0.1% of oligosaccharides, wherein the oligosaccharides are selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the food composition comprises, by weight %, i) about 0.05% to about 0.5% of nucleotides and ii) about 0.1% to about 2% of oligosaccharides, wherein the oligosaccharides are selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the food composition comprises, by weight, (i) about 0.05% to about 0.5% nucleotides, (ii) about 0.1% to about 0.7% xylooligosaccharides (XOS), and / or (iii) about 0.3% to about 1% fructooligosaccharides (FOS).

[0115] According to one embodiment, the food composition used for dogs according to the present disclosure may contain, by weight %, i) at least about 0.05% nucleotides and ii) at least about 0.1% oligosaccharides, the oligosaccharides of which can be selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof.

[0116] According to some embodiments, the food composition used for dogs according to the present disclosure may contain, by weight %, i) at least about 0.06%, 0.07%, 0.08%, 0.09%, 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, or 0.5% of nucleotides, and ii) at least about 0.1% of oligosaccharides, the oligosaccharides of which can be selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof.

[0117] According to some embodiments, the food composition used for dogs according to the present disclosure may contain, by weight %, i) at least about 0.05% nucleotides and ii) at least about 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4%, 0.5%, 0.6%, 0.7%, 0.8%, or 0.9% oligosaccharides, the oligosaccharides of which can be selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof.

[0118] In certain embodiments, the listed compositions may be dry compositions.

[0119] According to some embodiments, the food composition used for dogs according to the present disclosure may contain, by weight %, i) at least about 0.05% nucleotides and ii) at least about 0.1% oligosaccharides, the oligosaccharides of which can be selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), and combinations thereof.

[0120] According to some embodiments, the food composition used for dogs according to this disclosure may comprise, by weight %, i) at least about 0.05% nucleotides and ii) at least about 0.1% fructooligosaccharides (FOS).

[0121] According to some embodiments, the food composition used for dogs according to this disclosure may comprise, by weight %, i) at least about 0.05% nucleotides and ii) at least about 0.1% xylooligosaccharides (XOS).

[0122] According to some embodiments, the food composition used for dogs according to this disclosure may comprise, by weight %, i) at least about 0.05% nucleotides and ii) at least about 0.1% galactooligosaccharides (GOS).

[0123] In certain embodiments, the food composition used for dogs according to this disclosure may contain, by weight %, i) about 0.05% to about 0.5% nucleotides and ii) about 0.1% to about 2% oligosaccharides, the oligosaccharides of which can be selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof.

[0124] In certain embodiments, the food composition used for dogs according to this disclosure may contain, by weight %, i) about 0.05% to about 0.5% nucleotides and ii) about 0.1% to about 2% oligosaccharides, the oligosaccharides of which can be selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), and combinations thereof.

[0125] For example, the food composition used for dogs according to this disclosure may contain, by weight, i) about 0.05% to about 0.5% nucleotides and ii) about 0.1% to about 2% fructooligosaccharides (FOS).

[0126] For example, the food composition used for dogs according to this disclosure may contain, by weight %, i) about 0.05% to about 0.5% nucleotides and ii) about 0.1% to about 2% xylooligosaccharides (XOS).

[0127] In certain embodiments, the food composition used for dogs according to this disclosure is, by weight %, (i) at least about 0.05% nucleotides, (ii) at least about 0.1% xylooligosaccharides (XOS), and / or (iii) May contain at least about 0.3% fructooligosaccharides (FOS).

[0128] According to some embodiments, the food composition used for dogs according to this disclosure is, in weight %, (i) at least about 0.05% nucleotides, (ii) at least about 0.1% xylooligosaccharides (XOS), and (iii) May contain at least about 0.3% fructooligosaccharides (FOS).

[0129] According to some embodiments, the food composition used for dogs according to this disclosure is, in weight %, (i) at least about 0.05% nucleotides, (ii) May contain at least about 0.3% fructooligosaccharides (FOS).

[0130] In certain embodiments, the food composition used for dogs according to this disclosure is, by weight %, (i) Approximately 0.05% to 0.5% nucleotides, (ii) about 0.1% to about 0.7% xylooligosaccharides (XOS), and / or (iii) May contain approximately 0.3% to 1% fructooligosaccharides (FOS).

[0131] According to some embodiments, the food composition used for dogs according to this disclosure is, in weight %, (i) Approximately 0.05% to 0.5% nucleotides, (ii) May contain approximately 0.1% to 0.7% xylooligosaccharides (XOS).

[0132] According to some embodiments, the food composition used for dogs according to this disclosure is, in weight %, (i) Approximately 0.05% to 0.5% nucleotides, (ii) May contain approximately 0.3% to 1% fructooligosaccharides (XOS).

[0133] In certain embodiments of the food compositions used for dogs according to this disclosure, the nucleotides may be derived from a source of nucleotides from yeast extracts or fractions thereof, in particular from Kluyveromyces yeast extract and / or Saccharomyces cerevisae yeast extract, or yeast extracts selected from fractions thereof.

[0134] In various embodiments of the food compositions used in accordance with this disclosure, the nucleotide may include a combination of pyrimidine and purine.

[0135] In various embodiments, the nucleotides in food compositions used in accordance with this disclosure may include pyrimidine-purine combinations having a weight ratio of pyrimidine to purine in the range of about 9:1 to about 1:1.

[0136] According to some embodiments, the nucleotides may include pyrimidine-purine combinations having a weight ratio of pyrimidine to purine in the range of about 9:1 to about 1:1, including, but not limited to, 9:1, 8:1, 7:1, 6:1, 5:1, 4:1, 3:1, 2:1, and 1:1.

[0137] In certain embodiments of the food compositions used in accordance with this disclosure, the nucleotide may include pyrimidines selected from cytidine monophosphate (CMP), uridine monophosphate (UMP), thymidine monophosphate (TMP), and / or combinations thereof.

[0138] In certain embodiments, in a food composition used in accordance with this disclosure, the nucleotide may include a purine selected from adenosine monophosphate (AMP), guanosine monophosphate (GMP), inosine monophosphate (IMP), xanthosine monophosphate (XMP), and / or combinations thereof.

[0139] In certain embodiments of the food compositions used in accordance with this disclosure, the oligosaccharide may be selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), and / or combinations thereof.

[0140] Short-chain oligosaccharides and long-chain oligosaccharides may be considered in accordance with this disclosure.

[0141] In certain embodiments of the food composition used in accordance with this disclosure, the oligosaccharide may contain at least two units, for example, several sugar units from 2 to 10, and therefore may contain 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 sugar units. Alternatively, the oligosaccharide may contain 10 or more sugar units.

[0142] In certain embodiments of the food compositions used in accordance with this disclosure, the sugar XOS may comprise an XOS consisting of xylose units linked by β-(1,4) bonds having a degree of polymerization (DP) of 2 to 10, and thus may comprise degrees of polymerization of 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10.

[0143] In certain embodiments of the food compositions used in accordance with this disclosure, the sugar XOS may comprise 2 to 7 xylose molecules linked by β-1,4 glycosidic bonds.

[0144] In certain embodiments of the food composition used in accordance with this disclosure, the sugar FOS may comprise at least about 50% by weight of short-chain fructooligosaccharides (scFOS) on a dry matter basis.

[0145] In certain embodiments of the food composition used in accordance with this disclosure, the sugar FOS may comprise, on a dry matter basis, at least about 50%, 51%, 52%, 53%, 54%, 55%, 56%, 57%, 58%, 59%, 60%, 61%, 62%, 63%, 64%, 65%, 66%, 67%, 68%, 69%, 70%, 71%, 72%, 73%, 74%, 75%, 76%, 77%, 78%, 79%, 80%, 81%, 82%, 83%, 84%, 85%, 86%, 87%, 88%, 89%, or further 90% of the food composition as short-chain fructooligosaccharides (scFOS).

[0146] In certain embodiments of the food compositions used in accordance with this disclosure, the scFOS may comprise two, three, or four fructose units linked to one glucose unit (also referred to as GF2, GF3, and / or GF4, respectively).

[0147] In certain embodiments of the food composition used in accordance with this disclosure, the XOS comprises xylose units linked by β-(1,4) bonds with a degree of polymerization (DP) of 2 to 10, and the FOS comprises short-chain fructooligosaccharides (scFOS) making up at least about 50% by weight of the FOS in the food composition on a dry basis.

[0148] In certain embodiments, the food composition used in accordance with this disclosure may further comprise at least one component selected from vitamin E, arginine, and beta-carotene. More specifically, the food composition used in accordance with this disclosure may further comprise at least two components selected from vitamin E, arginine, and beta-carotene.

[0149] In certain embodiments, the food composition used in accordance with this disclosure may further contain about 0.01% to about 0.1% by weight of vitamin E, which may include 0.01%, 0.02%, 0.03%, 0.04%, 0.05%, 0.06%, 0.07%, 0.08%, 0.09%, and 0.1% by weight.

[0150] In certain embodiments, the food composition used in accordance with this disclosure may further contain about 0.0001% by weight to about 0.001% by weight of β-carotene.

[0151] In certain embodiments, the food composition used in accordance with this disclosure may further contain about 0.1% to about 10% by weight of arginine, which may include 0.1% by weight, 0.2% by weight, 0.3% by weight, 0.4% by weight, 0.5% by weight, 0.6% by weight, 0.7% by weight, 0.8% by weight, 0.9% by weight, 1% by weight, 2% by weight, 3% by weight, 4% by weight, 5% by weight, 6% by weight, 7% by weight, 8% by weight, 9% by weight, and 10% by weight.

[0152] In certain embodiments, the food composition used in accordance with this disclosure is -By weight%, approximately 0.01% to approximately 0.1% of vitamin E (this may include 0.01% by weight, 0.02% by weight, 0.03% by weight, 0.04% by weight, 0.05% by weight, 0.06% by weight, 0.07% by weight, 0.08% by weight, 0.09% by weight, and 0.1% by weight), and / or -By weight %, approximately 0.0001% to approximately 0.001% beta-carotene, and / or -By weight%, it may further contain approximately 0.1% to approximately 10% arginine (including 0.1% by weight, 0.2% by weight, 0.3% by weight, 0.4% by weight, 0.5% by weight, 0.6% by weight, 0.7% by weight, 0.8% by weight, 0.9% by weight, 1% by weight, 2% by weight, 3% by weight, 4% by weight, 5% by weight, 6% by weight, 7% by weight, 8% by weight, 9% by weight, and 10% by weight).

[0153] In certain embodiments, the food composition used in accordance with this disclosure may be a dry composition, a wet composition, or a semi-wet composition, and may be, for example, a dry composition.

[0154] In certain embodiments, the food composition used in accordance with this disclosure may be a nutritionally complete food or a functional supplement.

[0155] 5.3 How to maintain or improve your dog's mental health As specified elsewhere in this Specification, food compositions comprising the combination of ingredients disclosed herein have a beneficial effect on the mental health of dogs, including their temperament and response to stimuli, executive function and memory, and cognitive function and coping mechanisms, including their social behavior and interactions. As shown in the Examples, food compositions comprising the combination of ingredients disclosed herein have a beneficial effect on the mental health of dogs, as demonstrated herein through a series of cognitive and coping mechanism tests, including (i) a warm-up test, (ii) a pointing gesture test, (iii) vocalizations during a memory test, (iv) a boldness test to a novel object, and (v) a surprise event: a test of reactivity and fear.

[0156] Various canine cognitive tests conducted herein are disclosed in more detail in the examples herein.

[0157] The food compositions disclosed herein are intended to improve or maintain the mental health of canines, which may include one or more of the following: canine temperament, canine response to stimuli, canine social behavior and interactions, particularly interactions with humans.

[0158] Most preferably, the canine animal may be a healthy canine animal and therefore unaffected by any detectable pathological cognitive deficit or mental disorder, i.e., unaffected by any cognitive disorder or any disease associated with post-traumatic stress disorder.

[0159] In some embodiments, the food compositions disclosed herein are intended to improve the mental health of puppies, including cognitive function and coping mechanisms, which include one or more of the puppy's temperament, response to stimuli, social behavior and interactions, and especially interactions with humans.

[0160] According to these embodiments, this disclosure relates to the use of the food compositions disclosed herein for improving the mental health of puppies.

[0161] According to these embodiments, this disclosure relates to the use of the food compositions disclosed herein for improving cognitive function in puppies.

[0162] According to these embodiments, the present disclosure relates to the use of food compositions disclosed herein to improve coping mechanisms in puppies.

[0163] According to these embodiments, the present disclosure relates to a method for improving the mental health of puppies, comprising the step of administering a food composition described herein to the puppy.

[0164] According to these embodiments, the present disclosure relates to a method for improving the cognitive function of puppies, comprising the step of administering a food composition described herein to the puppy.

[0165] According to these embodiments, the present disclosure relates to a method for improving the coping mechanism of puppies, which includes the step of administering a food composition described herein to the puppy.

[0166] As is well known in the art, it is desirable to maintain or enhance the cognitive function and / or coping mechanisms of adult dogs.

[0167] In some other embodiments, the food compositions disclosed herein are intended to maintain or improve mental health in adult dogs, including cognitive function and coping mechanisms, which may encompass the temperament of adult dogs, their responses to stimuli, their social behavior and interactions, and especially their interactions with humans.

[0168] According to these other embodiments, the disclosure relates to the use of the food compositions disclosed herein for maintaining or improving the mental health of adult canine animals.

[0169] According to these other embodiments, the disclosure relates to the use of the food compositions disclosed herein for maintaining or improving the cognitive function of adult canine animals.

[0170] According to these other embodiments, the disclosure relates to the use of the food compositions disclosed herein for maintaining or improving the coping mechanisms of adult canine animals.

[0171] According to these other embodiments, the Disclosure relates to a method for maintaining or improving the cognitive function of adult dogs, comprising the step of providing adult dogs with the food composition described herein.

[0172] Furthermore, it is desirable to maintain the mental health of older dogs, including cognitive function and coping mechanisms, in order to prevent, reduce, or delay the natural decline in mental health that may be observed in older dogs, including healthy older dogs.

[0173] In some further embodiments, the food compositions disclosed herein are intended to maintain mental health, including cognitive function and coping mechanisms, in aged canine animals, and this mental health may encompass one or more of the temperament of aged dogs, the response of aged dogs to stimuli, the social behavior and interactions of aged dogs, particularly interactions with humans.

[0174] According to these further embodiments, the disclosure relates to the use of the food compositions disclosed herein for maintaining the mental health of elderly canine animals.

[0175] According to these further embodiments, the disclosure relates to the use of the food compositions disclosed herein for maintaining cognitive function in aged canine animals.

[0176] According to these further embodiments, the disclosure relates to the use of the food compositions disclosed herein for maintaining coping mechanisms in aged canine animals.

[0177] According to these further embodiments, the disclosure relates to a method for maintaining the mental health of aging canines, comprising the step of administering the food composition described herein to the aging canines.

[0178] According to these further embodiments, the disclosure relates to a method for maintaining cognitive function in aged canines, comprising the step of administering a food composition described herein to the aged canine animal.

[0179] According to these further embodiments, the present disclosure relates to a method for maintaining coping mechanisms in aging canine animals, comprising the step of providing aging canine animals with the food composition described herein.

[0180] Most preferably, the aged canine animal may be a healthy aged canine animal, i.e., an aged canine animal that is not affected by any disease related to loss of cognitive function or any cognitive impairment.

[0181] In certain embodiments, this disclosure relates to food compositions described herein for use in methods for improving mental health in canine animals, such as cognitive function and coping mechanisms, which may include one or more of the temperament of dogs, the response of dogs to stimuli, the social behavior and interactions of dogs, and in particular interactions with humans.

[0182] Furthermore, in another aspect, the disclosure relates to the nutritional use of the food composition described herein for improving or maintaining the mental health of canine animals, namely, the food composition comprising, by weight %, i) at least about 0.05% nucleotides and ii) at least about 0.1% oligosaccharides, wherein the oligosaccharides may be selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof.

[0183] According to one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to the nutritional use of a food composition described herein for improving or maintaining cognitive function in canines, i.e., a food composition comprising, by weight %, i) at least about 0.05% nucleotides and ii) at least about 0.1% oligosaccharides, wherein the oligosaccharides may be selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof.

[0184] According to one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to the nutritional use of a food composition described herein for improving or maintaining the coping mechanisms of canine animals, namely, a food composition comprising, by weight %, i) at least about 0.05% nucleotides and ii) at least about 0.1% oligosaccharides, wherein the oligosaccharides may be selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof.

[0185] Furthermore, in another aspect, the present disclosure relates to the nutritional use of the food composition described herein for improving mental health in puppies, including cognitive function, coping mechanisms, and combinations thereof, namely, the food composition comprising, by weight %, i) at least about 0.05% nucleotides and ii) at least about 0.1% oligosaccharides, wherein the oligosaccharides may be selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof.

[0186] Furthermore, in another aspect, the present disclosure relates to the nutritional use of the food composition described herein for improving mental health in adult dogs, including cognitive function, coping mechanisms, and combinations thereof, namely, the food composition comprising, by weight %, i) at least about 0.05% nucleotides and ii) at least about 0.1% oligosaccharides, wherein the oligosaccharides may be selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof.

[0187] Furthermore, in another aspect, the disclosure relates to the nutritional use of the food composition described herein for improving mental health in aged canine animals, including cognitive function, coping mechanisms, and combinations thereof, namely, the food composition comprising, by weight %, i) at least about 0.05% nucleotides and ii) at least about 0.1% oligosaccharides, wherein the oligosaccharides may be selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof.

[0188] Furthermore, in another aspect, the present disclosure relates to a method of nutrition for improving or maintaining mental health in canines, including cognitive function, coping mechanisms, and combinations thereof, comprising administering to canines a food composition described herein, i.e., a food composition comprising, by weight %, i) at least about 0.05% of nucleotides and ii) at least about 0.1% of oligosaccharides, wherein the oligosaccharides may be selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof.

[0189] In the embodiments described above, the nutritional method may include administering the food composition to a puppy in order to improve its mental health.

[0190] In the embodiments described above, the nutritional method may include administering the food composition to a puppy in order to improve its cognitive function.

[0191] In the embodiments described above, the nutritional method may include administering the food composition to puppies in order to improve the coping mechanism.

[0192] In other embodiments of the above-described model, the nutritional method may include administering the food composition to an adult dog in order to improve or maintain its mental health.

[0193] In the embodiments described above, the nutritional method may include administering the food composition to a puppy in order to improve its cognitive function.

[0194] In the embodiments described above, the nutritional method may include administering the food composition to puppies in order to improve the coping mechanism.

[0195] In yet another embodiment of the above-described part, the food composition may be administered to an elderly dog ​​in order to maintain its mental health.

[0196] In another aspect, the Disclosure provides a method for improving or maintaining mental health, comprising (a) supplying a food composition comprising, by weight, i) at least about 0.05% nucleotides and ii) at least about 0.1% oligosaccharides, wherein the oligosaccharides can be selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof, and (b) administering an effective amount of the food composition to a canine animal.

[0197] In another aspect, the Disclosure provides a method for improving or maintaining cognitive function in a canine animal, comprising (a) supplying a food composition comprising, by weight %, i) at least about 0.05% nucleotides and ii) at least about 0.1% oligosaccharides, wherein the oligosaccharides can be selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof, and (b) administering an effective amount of the food composition to the canine animal.

[0198] In another aspect, the Disclosure provides a method for improving or maintaining coping mechanisms in canines, comprising (a) supplying a food composition comprising, by weight, at least i) at least about 0.05% nucleotides and ii) at least about 0.1% oligosaccharides, wherein the oligosaccharides can be selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof, and (b) administering an effective amount of the food composition to the canines.

[0199] In the embodiments described above, the nutritional method may include administering the food composition to a puppy in order to improve its mental health.

[0200] In other embodiments of the above-described model, the nutritional method may include administering the food composition to an adult dog in order to improve or maintain its mental health.

[0201] In yet another embodiment of the above-described part, the food composition may be administered to an elderly dog ​​in order to maintain its mental health.

[0202] In another embodiment, a kit for producing the food composition described herein, (i) Sources of nucleotides, (ii) A kit is disclosed comprising a source of oligosaccharides selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof.

[0203] Advantageously, the kit can be provided in a manner that allows for the mixing, preferably heating, of the nucleotide and oligosaccharide sources for the direct production of a food composition. In this regard, those skilled in the art can adapt the content of each source of nucleotides and oligosaccharides with respect to the estimated final amount required for the food composition.

[0204] The kit may be adapted for use in methods for improving or maintaining the mental health of canine animals, as described elsewhere in this disclosure.

[0205] According to various embodiments, a method for producing a food composition, a) - Nucleotide supply source, - A step of mixing oligosaccharide sources selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof, b) A method is further provided which includes the step of heating a mixture to produce a food composition. [Examples]

[0206] 6. Examples The subject matter of this disclosure will be better understood by referring to the following examples provided herein, but will not be limited thereto. The materials and methods used in the examples are summarized below.

[0207] Example 1: Composition formulation materials and method A. Cohort of canine animals Puppies aged 3-4 weeks were divided into two groups: (i) a first group of 26 puppies given a control diet, and (ii) a second group of 27 puppies given a test diet. Therefore, the study began from weaning (3-4 weeks of age). Behavioral testing was performed once per puppy, approximately 8 weeks of age. The test protocol was designed for 2 days per puppy.

[0208] B. Diet composition B.1. Control diet The control diet has the following composition: protein: 33.0% (w / w), fat content: 14.0% (w / w), crude ash: 8.26% (w / w), crude fiber: 2.19% (w / w), nutritional supplements: vitamin A: 16300 IU, vitamin D3: 917 IU, vitamin E: 118 mg, E4 (copper): 13 mg, E6 (zinc): 150 mg.

[0209] B.2. Test diet The test diet has the following composition: protein: 33.0% (w / w), fat content: 14.0% (w / w), crude ash: 8.26% (w / w), crude fiber: 2.19% (w / w), nutritional additives: vitamin A: 16400 IU, vitamin D3: 920 IU, vitamin E: 500 mg, E4 (copper): 13 mg, E6 (zinc): 150 mg.

[0210] The test diet further comprises a combination of i) nucleotides and ii) oligosaccharides (FOS, XOS) as described in this disclosure.

[0211] B. Assessment of cognitive function Most of the experimental studies conducted to assess cognitive function in dogs were derived from or adapted from Bray et al. (2020, Anim Behav, Vol.166:193-206) and Bray et al. (2021, Anim Cogn, Vol.24(2): 311-328).

[0212] Cognitive function is assessed more specifically through one or more of the following further described tests, named the “Warm-up Test,” the “Pointing Gesture Test,” and the “Auditory Memory Test.” The results of the latter indicate the subject’s memory ability, starting from a period of 15 to 20 seconds (see results below), and are therefore suitable for assessing cognitive function.

[0213] The coping mechanism is evaluated more specifically through one or more of the following: “Vocal memory test,” “Boldness test to novel objects,” and “Surprising event.” The results of the “Vocal memory test” are also related to the subject’s vocal behavior and therefore correspond to the coping mechanism.

[0214] The "warm-up test" aims to determine the dog's ability to select the bait location immediately after the reward hidden in that location is revealed. A higher score indicates a worsening condition and reflects a greater number of tests required to meet the criteria. According to the "warm-up test," the subject must pass the warm-up criteria before completing other tasks with the cups. The warm-up test is also conducted to ensure that the subject is motivated to search for the reward and to prevent lateral bias. These tests consist of three stages: (1) a cup familiarization game with no visible placement of cups and in free form, (2) alternating visible placement of one cup, and (3) visible placement of two cups.

[0215] According to this test, the results are determined according to the number of tests taken to reach the criterion during the warm-up of the second test session. The canine animals must be correctly selected in the first four of the five consecutive tests. For conducting the warm-up test, those skilled in the art can refer in particular to Bray et al. (2020, Animal Behavior, Vol.166C:193-206) or Bray et al. (2021, nim Cogn, Vol.24:311-328).

[0216] The "pointing gesture" test assesses a dog's ability to use a pointing gesture to find hidden food. Higher scores reflect greater use of communicative cues from the human. This task measures the dog's ability to utilize a pointing gesture to find a hidden reward. The experimenter extends the index finger of the opposite hand and points to the point where the dog should gaze (preceded by verbal communication and eye contact with the dog) until the end of the test. Twelve tests are conducted. A dependency measure determines the percentage of tests in which the dog's first choice is to the location where the food is placed, and a choice is defined as the dog physically touching the cup with its nose or forelegs.

[0217] According to this test, the results are determined according to the percentage of correct selections across all 12 directional cue tests. For conducting pointed gesture tests, those skilled in the art can refer in particular to Hare et al. (1998, Evol Commun Vol.2:137-159) or Milkosi et al. (1998, Anim Cogn, Vol.1:113-121).

[0218] According to "Occurrence During Memory Tests," the ability of dogs to recall the location of a hidden treat after time delays of varying lengths is measured. Two opaque containers are placed in front of the dogs. The experimenter then presents the dogs with a food reward, which is placed under one of the containers. A delay is imposed before the subject can retrieve the treat, which increases between blocks of six tests (5 seconds, 10 seconds, 15 seconds, and 20 seconds). Only dogs that correctly selected the treat in at least four of the six tests at 10 seconds proceed to the 15-second delay, and only dogs that correctly selected the treat in at least four of the six tests at 15 seconds proceed to the 20-second delay. The dependent measure is the percentage of tests in which the subject first retrieves the treat from its original location. Thus, according to "Occurrence During Memory Tests," the ability to remember the location of the treat after delays of 5, 10, 15, and then 20 seconds is tested, and vocalizations are recorded during these tests (this may indicate that the dog is showing dissatisfaction while waiting to retrieve the treat). This examination will be conducted as follows, according to its various stages.

[0219] (i) Vocalizations during a memory test with a 10-second delay at average intensity. In this test, results were judged over six 10-second delay tests, and the intensity of the dog's vocalizations was averaged on the following scale from 0 to 4: 0 = none, 1 = moan, 2 = bark, 3 = bark / high-pitched voice, 4 = howl.

[0220] (ii) Vocalization during a memory test with a 10-second delay at maximum intensity. In this test, the results are judged over six 10-second delay tests to assess the maximum intensity of the dog's vocalization on a scale of 0 to 4, where 0 = none, 1 = groan, 2 = bark, 3 = bark / high-pitched voice, 4 = howl.

[0221] (iii) Vocalizations during a memory test with a 15-second delay at average intensity. In this test, the results were judged over six 15-second delay tests, with the intensity of the dog's vocalizations averaged on a scale of 0 to 4, where 0 = none, 1 = moan, 2 = whine, 3 = bark / high-pitched voice, 4 = howl. NA = Puppy did not meet the criteria to continue the 15-second test (correctly answered 4 out of 6 in the preceding test block).

[0222] (iv) Vocalization during a memory test with a 15-second delay at maximum intensity. In this test, the results were judged over six 15-second delay tests, and the maximum intensity of the dog's vocalization was evaluated on a scale of 0 to 4, where 0 = none, 1 = moan, 2 = whine, 3 = bark / high-pitched voice, 4 = howl. NA = Puppy did not meet the criteria to continue the 15-second test (correctly answered 4 out of 6 in the preceding test block).

[0223] (v) Vocalizations during a memory test with a 20-second delay at average intensity. In this test, the results were judged over six 20-second delay tests, with the intensity of the dog's vocalizations averaged on a scale of 0 to 4, where 0 = none, 1 = moan, 2 = whine, 3 = bark / high-pitched voice, 4 = howl. NA = Puppy did not meet the criteria to continue the 20-second test (4 out of 6 correct answers in the preceding test block).

[0224] (vi) Vocalization during a memory test with a 20-second delay at maximum intensity. In this test, the results were judged over six 20-second delay tests, and the maximum intensity of the dog's vocalization was evaluated on a scale of 0 to 4, where 0 = none, 1 = moan, 2 = bark, 3 = bark / high-pitched voice, 4 = howl. NA = The dog did not meet the criteria to continue the 20-second test (4 out of 6 correct answers in the preceding test block).

[0225] For the purpose of performing vocalizations during memory tests, those skilled in the art may refer in particular to Dore et al. (1996, Anim Learn Behav, Vol.24:142-149).

[0226] The "Boldness to Novel Objects" test measures a dog's reaction to an unfamiliar object using a method adapted from previously published research. A mechanically moving cat is placed in a cage with the dog. The experimenter and handler leave the room, leaving the cat and dog to move and meow. After 2 minutes, the experimenter re-enters the room and encourages the dog to approach the cat. Finally, the handler re-enters the room, places the dog approximately 1 meter in front of the cat, and at this point the experimenter again encourages the dog to approach. The subject's behavior is scored from video using behavioral records that include measurements such as time to approach, amount of time spent in proximity and contact, vocalizations, and willingness to approach after the human returns to the room. Thus, according to this test, the dog is left in the test space with the novel object (mechanical cat) for 2 minutes ("alone" time). Scoring measures the reaction to the novel object (mechanical cat), including fear behavior and approach / avoidance. The score is derived from principal component analysis. A higher score reflects faster approach and interaction with new objects.

[0227] According to this test, the result is determined according to the amount of time, in seconds, until the puppy makes its first sound during solitary time (the first two minutes). If the dog does not make any sound, it receives the highest score of 120 seconds. Sounds include groans / growls, whining, barking / shouting, or howling. For conducting a boldness test to a novel object, those skilled in the art can refer in particular to Bray et al. (2017, Anim Cogn, Vol.20:923-939), Goddard et al. (1984, Appl Anim Behav Sci, Vol.12:267-278), King et al. (2003, Appl Anim Behav Sci, Vol.82:45-64) or Marshall-Pescini et al. (2017, Front Psychol, Vol.8).

[0228] "Surprising Events": In the responsiveness and fear tests, a dog's response to a series of unexpected, potentially startling stimuli is measured using methods adapted from previously published research. Three potentially startling stimuli are presented to the dog in sequence, and the dog's behavioral responsiveness and subsequent recovery are scored from video using behavioral recordings. After each surprise event, the experimenter sets the stimulus on the ground, and the dog is allowed to explore freely on its own for 15 seconds. The experimenter then returns and verbally prompts the dog to approach the kibble near the previously initiated stimulus and eat it. After the third event (a loud noise), the handler and experimenter immediately leave the test area and stand in the corner, leaving the dog alone in the test area for 1 minute. The dog's behavior is scored from video using measures related to fear and departure behavior, as well as behavioral recordings including approach to or avoidance of the stimulus. Key component analysis is used to derive summary variables that capture individual differences in behavior. To conduct a surprising event test, those skilled in the art can refer to Bray et al. (2017, Anim Cogn, Vol.20:923-939), Sherman et al. (2015, J Vet Behav, Vol.10:94-102), or Van Der Borg et al. (1991, Appl Anim Behav, Vol.32:237-251).

[0229] According to a stage of the test called the "sheet response," dogs are presented with a potentially initiating stimulus, i.e., a section of sheet metal (sheet) that is manipulated to produce a vibrating sound. The response to the stimulus is scored. The score is derived from principal component analysis, with higher scores reflecting stronger responses to the initiating stimulus. According to this test, the results are determined according to the dog's initial response score to the sheet stimulus. Initiation within 1 second - immediate response. Most extreme response until the stimulus hits the ground. Rated on a scale of 1 to 4 (higher score indicates stronger response): 1 = no response to the stimulus ~ 4 = avoidance response. To conduct the sheet response test, those skilled in the art can refer to Bray et al. (2020, Anim Behav, Vol.166C:193-206) or King et al. (2003, Appl Anim Behav Sci, Vol.82:45-64).

[0230] According to a test called the "Sheet Vocalization Intensity" test, dogs are presented with a potentially initiating stimulus, i.e., a section of sheet metal (sheet) that is manipulated to produce a vibrating sound. The response to the stimulus is scored. The score is derived from principal component analysis, with higher scores reflecting a stronger response to the initiating stimulus. According to this test, the result is determined at any point before being picked up for re-appearance, according to the maximum vocalization intensity during the presentation of the sheet stimulus. Scores 0-4: 0 = none, 1 = growl / growl, 2 = whine, 3 = squeak / bark, 4 = howl. To conduct the Sheet Vocalization Intensity test, those skilled in the art can refer to Bray et al. (2020, Anim Behav, Vol.166C:193-206).

[0231] In the phase of the test referred to as “Orientation When the Experimenter Is Alone,” after completing the novel stimulus phase and the re-approach phase, the experimenter and handler stand just outside the cage, leaving the dog inside the cage for one minute and silently ignoring the dog. Scored behaviors include vocalization and orientation towards the experimenter. According to this test, the result is determined in seconds according to the amount of time the dog faces / orients towards the experimenter during the one minute of silent standing outside the cage. The dog's head must be facing the experimenter; if the body is orienting but the head is turned away, this is not counted. For conducting the experimenter orientation test alone, those skilled in the art can refer to Bray et al. (2020, Anim Behav, Vol.166C:193-206).

[0232] According to a test phase called "latency to vocalization while alone," after completing the novel stimulus phase and repetition phase, the experimenter and handler stand immediately outside, and the dog is left alone in the cage for one minute, silently ignoring the dog. Scored behaviors include vocalization and orientation towards the experimenter. According to this test, the result is determined in seconds according to the amount of time it takes for the dog to vocalize for the first time in one minute while the experimenter stands silently outside the cage. If the dog does not vocalize at all, it receives the highest score of 60 seconds. Vocalizations include growling / snorting, whining, barking / shouting, or howling. To conduct the latent vocalization while alone, those skilled in the art can refer to Bray et al. (2020, Anim Behav, Vol.166C:193-206).

[0233] According to the stage of the test called "Maximum Vocalization in Solitude," after completing the novel stimulus and repetition stages, the dog is left in its cage for one minute while the experimenter and handler stand immediately outside, and the dog is silently ignored. Scored behaviors include vocalization and orientation towards the experimenter. According to this test, the result is determined according to the maximum vocalization intensity during the one minute while the experimenter stands silently outside the cage. Scores 0-4: 0=none, 1=groan / growl, 2=weep, 3=creak / bark, 4=howl. For conducting the Maximum Vocalization in Solitude test, those skilled in the art can refer to Bray et al. (2020, Anim Behav, Vol.166C:193-206).

[0234] C. Statistics The significance of the results was assessed according to the well-known t-test (parameter test) and Wilcoxon test (non-parameter test), regardless of whether the variable tested was continuous or not.

[0235] One embodiment of the food composition of this disclosure that is useful for maintaining or improving the mental health of dogs is disclosed in Example 1.

[0236] One possible combination of a nucleotide source and an oligosaccharide source provided in this disclosure is given below.

[0237] [Table 1]

[0238] Nucleotide-rich yeast extracts are selected from petMOD® and petMOD®S supply material sources, which are commercialized by PROSOL SPA.

[0239] The xylooligosaccharide (XOS) source was an XOS powder composition containing 35% to 40% of the source's dry weight, which was a combination of corn maltrodextrin (30-35%) and corn fiber containing xylose and xylan (25-35%).

[0240] The short-chain fructooligosaccharide (scFOS) source was a PROFEED® composition containing short-chain fructooligosaccharides (sc-FOS) derived from sucrose. These consisted of a combination of 1-kestose (GF2) (approximately 37%), nistose (GF3) (approximately 53%), and 1F-β-fructofuranosylnistose (GF4) (approximately 10%). GF2, GF3, and GF4 are formed by sucrose (glucose-fructose) molecules linked to one, two, or three fructose units, respectively, which are added to the fructose units of sucrose via β2-1 glycosidic bonds.

[0241] Example 2: Evaluation of the effects of the food composition of Example 1 on the mental health of dogs, including cognitive function and coping mechanisms.

[0242] The results of several tests conducted to evaluate the effects of the food compositions according to this disclosure, particularly the food composition according to Example 1, on the cognitive function of dogs are disclosed in Table 2 at the end of this specification.

[0243] As shown in Table 2, the results of all cognitive tests conducted show a statistically significant positive effect of the food composition according to this disclosure on the cognitive function of the tested dogs, particularly the cognitive function of the tested puppies.

[0244] The "Warm-up Test" is designed to test the executive function and memory of canine animals. The results of the "Warm-up Test" demonstrate higher attention and faster comprehension in puppies given the food composition according to this disclosure.

[0245] The "pointing gesture" test focuses on (i) executive function and memory, as well as (ii) social behavior and interaction skills in canine animals. The results of the "pointing gesture" test demonstrate improved autonomy in puppies given the food composition according to this disclosure, showing that these puppies do not wait for human help to find solutions.

[0246] The “vocalization during memory testing” focuses on (i) temperament and (ii) executive function and memory skills of canine animals. The results of the “vocalization during memory testing” demonstrate improved resilience in puppies given the food composition according to this disclosure. These puppies exhibit increased patience, reduced irritability, improved ability to cope with frustration, and better retention of memory.

[0247] The "Boldness to Novel Objects" test focuses on canine animal substrates. The results of the "Boldness to Novel Objects" test show that puppies given the food composition according to this disclosure are less afraid of discovering new objects, more ignorant, more likely to explore independently without fear, more autonomous, and more confident.

[0248] The “Surprising Event: Reactivity and Fear” test (“Sheet Response” and “Sheet Vocalization Intensity” test) focuses on the canine animal's substrate. The “Surprising Event: Reactivity and Fear” test (“Experimenter Orientation When Alone,” “Vocalization Delay When Alone,” and “Maximum Vocalization When Alone” test) focuses on (i) temperament and (ii) the canine animal's social behavior and interaction. The results of the “Surprising Event: Reactivity and Fear” test indicate that puppies given the food composition according to this disclosure were less anxious and responsive (Sheet Response and Sheet Vocalization Intensity test) when faced with surprising events, and were also more autonomous and confident in the experimenter when tested alone. These puppies had fewer vocalizations when alone and adapted better to the situation (“Vocalization Latency When Alone” and “Maximum Vocalization When Alone” test).

[0249]

Table 2-1

[0250]

Table 2-2

[0251] List of References -Zicker et al., 2012, J Am Vet Med Assoc, Vol. 241:583-594 -Heath et al., 2007, Applied Animal Behaviour Science, Vol. 105(4):284-296 -Head et al., 2007, Ann NY Acad, Vol. 1114: 398-406 -Bray et al. (2020, Anim Behav, Vol.166C:193-206) -Bray et al. (2021, Anim Cogn, Vol.24(2):311-328). -Hare et al. (1998, Evol Commun, Vol.2:137-159) -Milkosi et al. (1998, Anim Cogn, Vol.1:113-121) -Dore et al. (1996, Anim Learn Behav, Vol.24:142-149) -Goddard et al. (1984, Appl Anim Behav Sci, Vol.12:267-278) -King et al. (2003, Appl Anim Behav Sci, Vol.82:45-64) -Marshall-Pescini et al. (2017, Front Psychol, Vol. 8). -Bray et al. (2017, Anim Cogn, Vol.20 :923-939) -Sherman et al. (2015,J Vet Behav,Vol.10:94-102) -Van Der Borg et al. (1991,Appl Anim Behav,Vol.32:237-251)

Claims

1. A food composition for use in maintaining or improving the mental health of dogs, comprising, by weight, (i) at least about 0.05% by weight of nucleotides, (ii) about 0.1% to about 0.7% of xylooligosaccharides (XOS), and (iii) about 0.3% to about 1% of fructooligosaccharides (FOS).

2. The food composition for use according to claim 1, wherein the nucleotide is derived from a source of nucleotides selected from a yeast extract or a fraction thereof.

3. The food composition for use according to claim 2, wherein the yeast extract is selected from Kluyveromyces yeast extract or Saccharomyces cerevisae yeast extract or a fraction thereof.

4. The food composition for use according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the nucleotide comprises a combination of pyrimidine and purine.

5. The food composition for use according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the oligosaccharide is selected from xylooligosaccharide (XOS), fructooligosaccharide (FOS), and combinations thereof.

6. The food composition for use according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the XOS comprises XOS consisting of xylose units linked by β-(1,4) bonds with a degree of polymerization (DP) of 2 to 10, and the FOS comprises short-chain fructooligosaccharides (scFOS) in weight percent of the FOS in the food composition on a dry basis, at least about 50%.

7. The aforementioned food composition (i) Vitamin E in weight % of approximately 0.01% to approximately 0.1%, and / or (ii) Approximately 0.0001% to 0.001% by weight of beta-carotene and / or (iii) A food composition for use according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising approximately 0.1% to approximately 10% by weight of arginine.

8. The food composition for use according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the food composition is a dry composition, a wet composition, or a semi-wet composition.

9. The food composition for use according to claim 8, wherein the food composition is a dried composition.

10. A food composition for use according to any one of claims 1 to 9 for improving the mental health of puppies.

11. A food composition for use according to any one of claims 1 to 9, for maintaining or improving the mental health of adult dogs.

12. A food composition for use according to any one of claims 1 to 9, for maintaining the mental health of senior dogs.

13. A food composition for use in maintaining or improving the mental health of dogs, wherein the food composition comprises, by weight %, i) at least about 0.05% nucleotides and ii) at least about 0.1% oligosaccharides, wherein the oligosaccharides are selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof.

14. The food composition for use according to claim 13, wherein the food composition comprises, by weight, i) about 0.05% to about 0.5% of nucleotides and ii) about 0.1% to about 2% of oligosaccharides, wherein the oligosaccharides are selected from xylooligosaccharides (XOS), fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and combinations thereof.

15. The aforementioned food composition is, by weight %, (i) Approximately 0.05% to approximately 0.5% nucleotides, (ii) Approximately 0.1% to 0.7% xylooligosaccharides (XOS), and / or (iii) A food composition for use according to claim 13 or 14, comprising approximately 0.3% to approximately 1% fructooligosaccharide (FOS).

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