Adiposity DNA Testing for Labrador Retrievers: Guide for Owners
The Labrador retriever is one of the UK's most beloved dog breeds, celebrated for its friendly nature, intelligence, and versatility. Labradors excel not only as family pets but also in working roles and canine sports. Their affectionate personalities and adaptability make them wonderful companions.
Despite these qualities, Labrador retrievers are prone to gaining excess weight, a challenge worsened in some by a genetic predisposition. Many owners unknowingly overlook weight gain in their dogs, putting them at health risk.
This article explores adiposity, also known as hereditary obesity, in Labrador retrievers, explains the genetic factors involved, and details how DNA testing can aid responsible breeding and better weight management.
What is adiposity or hereditary obesity in Labrador retrievers?
Adiposity refers to excessive body fat accumulation causing overweight or obesity. While any dog can become overweight from overeating or lack of exercise, some Labradors carry genetic mutations increasing their appetite and body fat beyond typical levels.
The POMC gene mutation is well known in Labradors for causing increased appetite and food-seeking behaviour, leading to weight gain. However, recent research in 2025 has shown that additional genes, especially DENND1B and four others, also contribute significantly to obesity risk in this breed.
Labradors with these genetic predispositions face greater challenges in maintaining healthy weight and require careful dietary management.
How is Labrador adiposity inherited?
Adiposity in Labradors follows an autosomal recessive inheritance pattern. This means a puppy inherits the condition only if it receives affected genes from both parents.
- Two clear (unaffected) parents produce clear puppies.
- Two affected parents produce affected puppies.
- Two carriers have a 25% chance of affected puppies, 50% carriers, and 25% clear puppies.
- Affected x clear parents produce carrier puppies.
- Carrier x clear parents produce 50% carriers and 50% clear puppies.
- Carrier x affected parents produce 50% affected and 50% carrier puppies.
Why DNA testing is important for Labrador breeders and owners
DNA testing for adiposity enables breeders and owners to identify their dog's genetic status, helping prevent breeding affected puppies. By testing prospective breeding stock, it is possible to avoid mating two affected or carrier dogs, drastically reducing hereditary obesity prevalence in litters.
For pet owners, testing explains unexplained weight gain despite proper diet and exercise and supports informed care decisions. Knowledge of genetic risk encourages stricter portion control and regular monitoring.
How to get a Labrador adiposity DNA test
To test your Labrador for the adiposity marker, visit your vet to arrange a DNA sample, usually a cheek swab or blood draw. This sample is sent to a UK-accredited lab that assesses the dog's status as clear, carrier, or affected.
The cost varies by provider but is generally affordable. Knowing your dog's genetic profile empowers you to work closely with your vet on tailored diet and lifestyle plans. Test results also guide ethical breeding choices if you intend to breed.
Managing obesity risk: practical care tips
- Strict diet control: Feed measured, high-quality food compliant with your dog's energy needs.
- Limit treats: Use training treats sparingly and consider low-calorie options.
- Regular exercise: Daily walks and play to burn calories and maintain muscle mass.
- Weight monitoring: Regular weigh-ins and body condition assessment with your vet.
- Vet check-ups: Routine health assessments to detect early obesity-related complications.
Obesity increases risk of diabetes, joint problems, heart disease, and decreased lifespan. Early intervention maintains quality of life.
Conclusion
Adiposity or hereditary obesity in Labrador retrievers has a significant genetic basis, with the POMC and DENND1B genes playing major roles. While genetics shape risk, responsible owners and breeders can control environmental factors such as diet and exercise to safeguard their dog's health.
DNA testing is an invaluable tool for identifying at-risk dogs, preventing hereditary transmission, and guiding effective weight management. With informed care, Labradors can lead happy, healthy lives free from obesity-related problems.
