A groundbreaking study by the University of Queensland is turning the spotlight on one of the most overlooked health issues among pet dogs: obesity. Labrador retrievers and golden retrievers, two of Australia’s most popular and obesity-prone breeds, are at the center of this 28-week research project aimed at uncovering how excess weight affects canine gut health, metabolism, fat tissue, and brain function.
Amara Schultz, the owner of two-year-old labrador Archie, immediately knew her affectionate, food-loving companion was an ideal fit for the study.
“He’s very mellow, very loving, very chill… loves his food,” Ms Schultz said. “He’s got that classic labrador face, and it’s just too easy to give in to those eyes.”
But Archie’s days of indulgence are over—for now. He is joining dozens of retrievers in a structured program that includes a regulated diet, tailored exercise plans, and monitoring through wearable activity trackers—dubbed “doggy Fitbits.”
A Holistic Approach to Pet Health
Leading the study is Dr Erika Meler, who emphasized the project’s broader ambitions.
“We want our research to benefit not just these breeds, but the wider population of companion animals,” she said.
Participating dogs will undergo full veterinary health assessments and receive carefully calibrated meal plans—all free for owners. The data collected will help researchers measure how physical activity and dietary changes impact both the body and mind of the animals.
“We’re interested in the intensity and duration of exercise,” Dr Meler explained, noting that the activity trackers provide invaluable insight into each dog’s daily routine.
The Hidden Toll of Pet Obesity
Dr Meler pointed out that many pet owners may not recognize when their dogs are overweight.
“People often see a ‘curvy’ dog and think it’s just cute—but the health risks are real and long-term,” she said.
Overweight dogs face many of the same health problems as humans, including diabetes, cardiovascular issues, hypertension, and joint diseases.
“Sticking to the right amount of food is often the hardest part—just like for people,” she added. “But there are ways to make it manageable, like breaking meals into smaller portions or associating feeding with walks.”
Exploring the Gut-Brain Connection
A key focus of the study is the relationship between the gut microbiome and brain function.
“This is a rapidly developing field in human medicine—and it’s equally fascinating in dogs,” said Dr Meler. “We want to understand how gut bacteria influence canine mood and cognition, and how the brain might affect gut health in return.”
To explore this, researchers will use canine cognition tests, such as puzzle games involving treat-finding and logic challenges. Dog owners will also complete regular surveys to evaluate any changes in their pets’ behaviour and their own interactions with them.
Addressing a Widespread Problem
With estimates suggesting that one in three Australian dogs is overweight—and nearly one in four obese—Dr Meler hopes the study will inspire owners to take preventive action.
“For anyone with a dog that’s carrying a bit of extra weight, your next vet visit is a good time to start the conversation,” she advised.
For Ms Schultz, the motivation is simple: ensuring Archie enjoys the longest, healthiest life possible.
“Any knowledge that helps our dogs live happy, healthy lives and stay with us longer is absolutely worth it,” she said.