Researchers from the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom reported that roughly a quarter of Labrador Retrievers carry a POMC gene mutation that predisposes them to obesity. The findings were published in the science journal Science Advances (SciAdv).
The POMC gene is linked to how the body manages energy use and hunger. With the mutation, Labradors tend to seek out food more often and burn about 25% fewer calories than their non-mutant peers.
In the study, 87 adult Labradors participated, all of whom were either healthy or mildly overweight.
During the first phase, dogs received a can of food every 20 minutes until they felt full. The researchers observed that Labradors carrying the POMC mutation consumed amounts of canned food comparable to healthy dogs, suggesting that all dogs reached satiety after similar portions.
On a separate day, the dogs were given a standard portion of food. Three hours later, they were offered sausages placed in a clear box with a perforated lid. The design let the dogs see and smell the treat but prevented immediate consumption.
Results showed that those with the POMC mutation were more persistent in attempting to retrieve the treat from the box, indicating a stronger drive to obtain food than dogs without the mutation.
In a further test, the dogs slept in a controlled room while the researchers monitored their breathing. The data demonstrated that Labradors with the mutation expended roughly 25% less energy than their healthier counterparts, even when resting.
The study highlights how genetic factors can shape appetite and activity levels, complicating weight management for owners and veterinarians alike.
“Owners often face judgment when their dogs appear overweight, yet genetics can play a substantial role in a pet’s body condition,” said the study leader Dr. Eleanor Raffan. “Labradors with this genetic variation are constantly drawn to food, and keeping them fit requires thoughtful strategies that address both diet and activity.”
Experts advise Labrador owners in North America to use puzzle feeders and other slow-feeding devices to pace meals and reduce the urge to snack quickly, a practical approach that can help manage weight without sacrificing enjoyment or welfare.
Note: The report emphasizes that recognizing genetic predispositions is essential for designing effective weight-control plans and for informing veterinary care decisions in diverse populations across Canada and the United States. Continued research aims to translate these insights into actionable guidelines for breeders, owners, and clinicians while ensuring the well-being of dogs with food-marming tendencies.
At the same time, veterinarians recommend routine checkups and weight monitoring, along with individualized exercise plans, to support Labradors with a higher obesity risk. Family practices that integrate behavior coaching with nutrition can make a difference in long-term health outcomes for these dogs, aligning with broader goals of responsible pet ownership and welfare.
The study underscores that genetics, environment, and daily routines all contribute to a dog’s weight trajectory. Owners who understand their Labrador’s unique biology are better equipped to tailor feeding strategies, activity levels, and enrichment to keep their canine family members healthy and happy over the years.
In practical terms, households dealing with a potential POMC-linked obesity tendency should consider portion-controlled meals, high-protein, moderate-fat diets, and enrichment activities that promote mental stimulation and physical exertion. The combination of dietary management and targeted play can help mitigate the impact of the mutation and maintain a balanced weight for Labrador retrievers.