Obesity is increasingly recognized as one of the most serious health problems facing domestic dogs, affecting around 30% of dogs in veterinary clinics. Horiuk and Kozhyn (2025) emphasize that excess adipose tissue is not merely a fat reservoir but a complex organ with key roles in metabolism, hormone regulation, and immune function.
Excess body fat leads to the release of adipokines such as leptin and adiponectin, which regulate energy balance and glucose metabolism. When dysregulated, these hormones contribute to insulin resistance, chronic inflammation, and disruptions in lipid metabolism. As a result, obese dogs face elevated risks of type 2 diabetes, hypothyroidism, dyslipidemia, osteoarthritis, respiratory issues, and cardiovascular problems.
Risk factors include breed predisposition (Labradors, Cocker Spaniels, Beagles), age, sex, neutering, and reduced physical activity. Improper feeding practices further accelerate the condition. Importantly, obesity shortens life expectancy and diminishes quality of life by increasing the likelihood of chronic pain and surgical complications.
Prevention and management strategies revolve around dietary control, structured physical activity, and early diagnosis. The authors stress that obesity in dogs must be viewed as not only a veterinary issue but also part of the broader “One Health” initiative, linking animal and human health through shared approaches to nutrition, lifestyle, and disease prevention.
Source: Horiuk, V., & Kozhyn, V. (2025). Metabolic and endocrine disorders in obesity in dogs. Scientific Messenger of LNU of Veterinary Medicine and Biotechnologies. Published March 15, 2025.
