This chapter examines the parallels between obesity in Labradors and the broader human obesity crisis. Through the story of Leo the Labrador, it reveals how genetics and behaviors in pets can mirror those in humans, offering insights into health management for both species.
Labradors are known for being greedy dogs, and now scientists have come up with a theory about the genetic factors that may be behind their behaviour. In this episode from April 2024, the Guardian’s science correspondent and flat-coated retriever owner Nicola Davis visits the University of Cambridge to meet Dr Eleanor Raffan and Prof Giles Yeo to find out how understanding this pathway could help treat the obesity crisis in humans. Help support our independent journalism at
theguardian.com/sciencepod