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 Scientists have found that chubby Labrador retrievers possess the same fat gene as humans, which causes them to constantly seek out food and become obese.


 Almost half of the dogs in Britain
 are considered to have excess weight or obesity
 , where overly generous owners are frequently blamed for spoiling their pets excessively.


 However, scientists from the University of Cambridge stated that
 Owners of slender canines have no basis for ethical supremacy.
 since genetic factors might be behind weight gain in dogs.


 The research indicated that certain dogs possess an obesity-related genetic variation called DENND1B, making these canines more prone to excessive eating habits similar to those observed in humans.


 The team discovered that Labradors carrying the gene possessed approximately 8 percent greater body fat compared to those without it.


 Natalie Wallis, a PhD student from the Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience at the University of Cambridge, stated, "Our findings indicate that dogs with a higher genetic predisposition to obesity showed greater interest in food."


 We assessed the frequency with which dogs bothered their owners for food as well as whether they had picky eating habits.


 Dogs with a significant genetic predisposition to obesity exhibited indications of possessing a stronger appetite, similar to humans who have a high genetic likelihood of being obese.


 The research team assessed the body fat levels in pets' dogs, evaluated their "greediness," and collected a saliva sample for genetic analysis.


 Next, they examined the genetics of each dog and through comparison
 the weight condition of the canine
 From its genetic material, researchers managed to distinguish which genes were associated with canine obesity.


 Overall, they pinpointed five genes linked to obesity in dogs, with DENND1B showing the most significant effect.


 DENND1B directly influences a brain pathway that manages the body’s energy balance and has been associated with this process.
 increased Body Mass Index in people
 .


 Eleanor Raffan, who works at Cambridge, stated: "Examining the dogs revealed something significant: owning a lean dog doesn’t make an owner ethically better."


 The statement holds for individuals who are not overweight as well. If someone has a significant genetic predisposition to obesity, they tend to overeat and gain weight easily when abundant food is accessible, unless they make an extraordinary effort to prevent this.

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 Even though identifying gene variations that cause obesity might result in new therapies to mitigate their impact, scientists stated they were hesitant to modify these genes because they may serve crucial additional roles within the body.


 Alyce McClellan, who is part of Cambridge’s department of physiology, development and neuroscience, stated: "These genes"
 do not readily appear as suitable candidates for medications aimed at reducing body weight
 because they regulate various essential physiological functions in the body that ought not to be disrupted.


 However, these findings highlight the significance of basic neural pathways in regulating hunger and body mass.


 The researchers indicated that dog owners can prevent their pets from feeling constantly hungry by dividing up the daily food portion into smaller servings. This could be achieved through methods such as utilizing puzzle feeders, dispersing the food throughout the yard to prolong eating time, or selecting meals that remain nourishing yet are particularly appealing to the animals.


 Ms. Raffan added, "This research highlights the genetic similarities between dogs and humans. By examining dogs, we were able to concentrate on this specific gene, leading to significant progress in comprehending how our brains control our eating habits and energy consumption."


 The study, featured in the journal Science, received funding from Wellcome, the BBSRC, and the Dogs Trust.


 
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Why Chubby Dogs (and Humans) Can't Resist Overeating

Unknown animals, dogs, nutrition, obesity, pet owners

Scientists have found that chubby Labrador retrievers possess the same fat gene as humans, which causes them to constantly seek out food and become obese. Almost half of the dogs in Britain are co…