This chapter explores a study connecting genetics with dog behavior, particularly around food and energy. It then parallels this with human obesity, discussing the increasing prevalence of over-nutrition and the intertwined roles of genetics and environment.
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