Abstract

Obesity in dogs has become a global concern, largely as a result of reduced physical activity and excess caloric intake. This condition is associated with numerous metabolic changes, including alterations in glucose and lipid homeostasis, hormonal disruptions, impaired liver function, persistent low-grade inflammation, and increased oxidative stress. This concise review presents up-to-date research on the metabolic consequences of canine obesity, with a focus on their implications for clinical practice and the identification of early markers of metabolic dysfunction. Special attention is given to the processes involved in insulin resistance, disordered adipokine signaling, hepatic fat accumulation, and the growing recognition of the gut microbiome’s role in obesity. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for prompt detection and for developing evidence-based approaches to prevent and treat obesity in the canine population.

Key words: Obesity, Dogs, Metabolism, Insulin resistance, Dyslipidemia, Adipokines, Hepatic steatosis