A recent study published in Science on March 6 has highlighted genetic factors influencing obesity in Labrador retrievers. These dogs are known for their persistent begging and tendency to overeat, contributing to their status as one of the most overweight dog breeds alongside golden retrievers, cocker spaniels, and beagles.
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Researchers, led by veterinary surgeon and geneticist Eleanor Raffan from the University of Cambridge, previously identified a gene variant known as POMC that predisposes Labradors to overeating. However, this new study reveals that additional genetic factors are at play.
The team examined DNA samples from 241 British Labrador retrievers and gathered data on aspects such as body fat mass, begging behavior, and dietary regulation by their owners. They discovered five genes associated with obesity, with the DENND1B gene showing the most significant impact. Labradors carrying a specific variant of DENND1B had approximately 8 percent more body fat compared to those without the variant. This gene is also linked to higher body mass index in humans.
Leveraging these findings, the researchers developed a risk scoring system to assess individual Labradors' genetic predisposition to obesity. Adam Boyko, a canine geneticist at Cornell University who was not part of the study, noted that this system allows owners to rank their pets based on inherited obesity-related genes.
The study also highlighted behavioral differences in Labradors based on their genetic risk. High-risk Labradors were found to beg more frequently and exhibited a stronger drive to seek food. Moreover, the study underscored the importance of dietary management; for high-risk dogs, stricter dietary regulation from owners significantly influenced their weight management. Raffan stated that high-risk Labradors could maintain a healthy weight if properly managed, while low-risk dogs tended to stay at a healthy weight regardless of diet.
While genetic testing for obesity risk in Labradors may not be necessary, Raffan suggests that pet owners should be aware of their dog's tendencies. Dogs that appear prone to overeating could be more genetically driven to seek food. Consequently, managing their diet could be crucial, although practice often proves challenging due to the dogs’ strong food motivation.