Obesity is one of the most prevalent health issues in companion dogs, yet its presence among show dogs—those judged on conformation and breed standards—has received little attention. In a study published in Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica, S. Lindåse and colleagues evaluated the body condition score (BCS) of dogs competing at one of Sweden’s largest dog shows to assess both the prevalence of overweight and its relationship to competition outcomes.
The research included 120 dogs from six popular breeds, whose body condition was scored by trained veterinary personnel using a 9-point BCS scale, where scores of 6 or higher indicated overweight. The results showed that 32% of dogs were overweight, though nearly all were only mildly so (BCS 6), and no dog was classified as obese (BCS 8–9). Significant breed differences were observed (p < 0.0001): Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and French Bulldogs had the highest average scores (5.6–5.7) and the greatest prevalence of overweight (50–67%).
Importantly, analysis revealed that body condition did not influence competition results. Lean and overweight dogs received awards and top placements at similar rates, dispelling the belief that “sturdier” dogs perform better in the show ring. The authors stress that promoting leanness is essential for canine health and performance, especially for breeds already predisposed to obesity-related conditions such as joint stress and respiratory issues.
The findings indicate that the prevalence of overweight among Swedish show dogs mirrors that of the general pet population. The researchers recommend educating owners, breeders, and judges about healthy body condition and proper BCS assessment, especially in breeds with a traditional appearance of robustness. Awareness campaigns could help prevent obesity and improve the welfare and longevity of show and companion dogs alike.
Source: Lindåse, S., Feltenmark, T., Krantz, M., & Söder, J. (2021). Overweight in Swedish Show Dogs – Prevalence and Association with Performance in Competition. Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica, 63. Published April 26, 2021.
