Risk Factors Associated with Obesity in Dogs

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and risk factors for obesity of dogs presented to the clinics of GADVASU in which healthy adult dogs were screened for obesity on a 5-point scale of Body Condition Score. Detailed information was obtained through a questionnaire of 70 normal dogs and 180 overweight/obese dogs to evaluate the risk factors associated with obesity in companion dogs. Obesity rates were analyzed concerning breed, age, sex, neutering, duration of owning food control, feeding frequency, food type, nutritional supplements, owner age, and health, number of persons per household, number of pets per household, feeding type, and frequency, table scraps, treats, exercise duration, exercise status, exercise type, living environment, vaccination, and deworming. The overall canine obesity rate in clinics was 36%. The risk factors for dog obesity were middle age group, neutering, owner awareness, duration of owning, feeding type, table scraps, treats, feeding frequency, exercise status, regularity, duration and type of exercise, owner health, owner age, number of family members, living environment. By dog breed, the prevalence of obesity was high in Labrador Retrievers (55.55%), followed by Pug (18.89%), and Beagle (8.33%).

s, treats, feeding frequency, exercise status, regularity, duration and type of exercise, owner health, owner age, number of family members, living environment. By dog breed, prevalence of obesity was high Labrador Retrievers (55.55%) followed by Pug (18.89%), Beagle (8.33%).