Overweight in Dogs: Underlying Causes, Methodology, Impact on Dog Health and One Health Aspects

Dear Colleagues,

Overweight and obesity in dogs is an increasing problem, with a prevalence of up to 50% in many countries. Excess adiposity may have detrimental effects on dog health with a risk of an earlier onset of chronic diseases, reduced wellbeing and a shortened life.

Understanding the underlying causes of canine overweight development and risk factors involved can refine prevention strategies and reduce incidence. The development of new body condition assessment techniques can aid the identification, treatment and follow-up of overweight dogs in the clinic as well as in research settings. Perspectives on contributing management factors as well as knowledge and attitudes among dog owners are essential in understanding the complex etiology of canine overweight. The owner and dog relationship and the effects of a shared lifestyle on body conditions and health in owners and dogs warrants further investigation in a broader “One Health perspective”, to improve welfare and health in both people and dogs.

To highlight the importance of canine overweight management, we are pleased to invite you to this Special Issue, which aims to publish original research articles or reviews on “Overweight in Dogs: Underlying Causes, Methodology, Impact on Dog Health and One Health Aspects”. We call on researchers to contribute their recent findings, especially focusing on but not limited to the following areas related to overweight and/or obesity in dogs:

• Underlying causes, risk factors, prevention and treatment;
• Physiology, metabolism and gut microbiota;
• Interventions of weight gain or weight loss;
• Co-morbidities, concurrent diseases and welfare;
• Effects of nutrition and/or physical activity;
• Body condition (BCS) assessment;
• Owner knowledge and attitudes;
• Methodology and One Health aspects.

We look forward to receiving your contributions.

Dr. Josefin Söder
Dr. Johanna Penell
Dr. Katja Höglund
Guest Editors

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