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Frequency, breed predisposition and demographic risk factors for overweight status in dogs in the UK
Objectives To evaluate the prevalence and risk factors for overweight status in dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK. Materials and Methods A retrospective study design was used to estimate the 1‐year (2016) period prevalence of overweight status. The clinical records were randomly ordered a...
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Published in: | Journal of small animal practice 2021-07, Vol.62 (7), p.521-530 |
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Main Authors: | , , , , , , |
Format: | Article |
Language: | English |
Subjects: | |
Citations: | Items that this one cites Items that cite this one |
Online Access: | Get full text |
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Summary: | Objectives
To evaluate the prevalence and risk factors for overweight status in dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK.
Materials and Methods
A retrospective study design was used to estimate the 1‐year (2016) period prevalence of overweight status. The clinical records were randomly ordered and manually validated for dogs with overweight status during 2016. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression modelling were used to evaluate associations between risk factors (breed, brachycephalic status, adult bodyweight, bodyweight relative to breed‐sex mean, age, sex‐neuter and insurance) and overweight status.
Results
There were 1580 of 22,333 dogs identified as overweight during 2016. The estimated 1‐year period prevalence for overweight status recorded in dogs under veterinary care was 7.1% (95% confidence interval 6.7–7.4). After accounting for confounding factors, eight breeds showed increased odds of overweight status compared with crossbred dogs. The breeds with the highest odds included the Pug (OR 3.12, 95% confidence interval 2.31 to 4.20), Beagle (OR 2.67, 1.75 to 4.08), Golden Retriever (OR 2.58, 1.79 to 3.74) and English Springer Spaniel (OR 1.98, 1.31 to 2.98). Being neutered, middle‐aged and insured were additionally associated with overweight status.
Clinical Significance
Targeted overweight prevention strategies should be prioritised for predisposed breeds, such as Pugs and Beagles. The findings additionally raise questions about further preventative efforts following neutering. The prevalence estimate suggests veterinary professionals are underreporting overweight status and therefore could be missing key welfare opportunities. |
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ISSN: | 0022-4510 1748-5827 |
DOI: | 10.1111/jsap.13325 |