How obesity and overweight affect blood and heart markers in dogs

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Canine obesity is an increasingly concerning issue that negatively impacts dogs' health, quality of life, and lifespan. AIM: This study aimed to evaluate the adipokine profiles of overweight (OW) and obese (OB) dogs and their associations with various hematological, biochemical, hormonal, and cardiovascular markers. METHODS: A total of 84 dogs were classified according to their body condition scores as normal weight (NW), OW, or OB, and were subsequently subjected to blood pressure measurement, blood testing, and urine sampling. RESULTS: The findings revealed that OB dogs had higher serum concentrations of leptin and resistin while exhibiting lower levels of adiponectin when compared to NW dogs. Additionally, they showed higher systolic blood pressure. Serum creatinine levels were lower in OB dogs, and urinary specific gravity was reduced in both OW and OB dogs compared to their NW counterparts. Furthermore, total leukocyte counts and neutrophil counts were elevated in OW and OB dogs. The study also found that serum insulin levels were positively correlated with triglycerides, cholesterol, and C-reactive protein. CONCLUSION: Canine obesity is reflected in altered adipokine concentrations and is associated with insulin resistance, as well as changes in renal function, protein metabolism, and hematological markers.