Genetic Factors in Canine Obesity

Certain dog breeds, particularly Labradors and flat-coated retrievers, exhibit a genetic variant in the POMC gene that appears to contribute to obesity. This mutation affects the brain's processing of hunger and fullness signals, making these dogs more likely to overeat. Research reveals that about a quarter of Labradors possess this variant, with a higher prevalence in guide dogs, which may indicate a selection for more food-motivated traits in working environments. Understanding this genetic influence helps explain why some dogs are more prone to weight gain, offering insights into obesity's complexities in both pets and humans.