Obesity genes that cause dogs to pile on the pounds have been identified, with the same genes associated with obesity in humans.

Researchers examining British Labrador retrievers have identified multiple genes connected to canine obesity. The investigations revealed that these same genes, including one called DENND1B, are associated with obesity in humans as well.

We led a study to find out how genes have such a significant influence on why humans (and dogs) become overweight. It was their reputation for greediness that led us to focus on labrador retrievers. Genes are responsible for 40%-70% of human obesity – the rest is related to life experience.

Pippa, a 12-week-old Labrador retriever, was minding her business, lazily chewing a stick. But when her owner uttered a single word, “biscuit”, it was like Pippa was possessed. Ears pricked, she was at attention,

The researchers explained that dogs are a "good model" for studying human obesity as they develop obesity through similar environmental influences as humans. The post Scientists identify obesity genes shared by humans and dogs appeared first on Talker.

Researchers studying a population of pet British Labrador retrievers have identified multiple genes associated with canine obesity and show that these genes are also associated with obesity in humans.