Genetic Mutation Increases Obesity Risk in Labradors

A quarter of Labrador retrievers carry a POMC gene mutation, leading to heightened hunger and lower calorie burning, necessitating careful weight management.

A quarter of all Labrador retrievers carry a genetic mutation in the POMC gene, leading to increased hunger and reduced calorie burning, significantly raising their risk of obesity.
The mutation affects about 25% of Labradors and 66% of flat-coated retrievers, altering brain pathways related to body weight regulation and triggering a starvation signal.
Labradors with the POMC mutation do not consume more food than those without it in controlled tests, but they exhibit a stronger focus on food and a lower resting metabolic rate.
Effective management of affected dogs includes strict diet control, increased exercise, and mental stimulation to distract from constant hunger.
The POMC gene and its pathways are similar in dogs and humans, with ongoing research into human obesity potentially benefiting from these findings.