<b>Canine obesity, overweight, and adipokine serum concentration are associated with hematological, biochemical, hormonal, and cardiovascular markers</b>

Background: Canine obesity is an increasingly concerning issue that negatively impacts dogs' health, quality of life, and lifespan. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the adipokine profiles of overweight and obese dogs and their associations with various hematological, biochemical, hormonal, and cardiovascular markers. Methods: A total of 84 dogs were classified according to their body condition scores as normal weight, overweight, or obese, and were subsequently subjected to blood pressure measurement, blood testing, and urine sampling. Results: The findings revealed that obese dogs had higher serum concentrations of leptin and resistin while exhibiting lower levels of adiponectin when compared to normal-weight dogs. Additionally, they showed higher systolic blood pressure. Serum creatinine levels were lower in obese dogs, and urinary specific gravity was reduced in both overweight and obese dogs compared to their normal-weight counterparts. Furthermore, total leukocyte counts and neutrophil counts were elevated in overweight and obese dogs. The study also found that serum insulin levels were positively correlated with triglycerides, cholesterol, and C-reactive protein. Conclusion: Canine obesity is reflected in altered adipokine concentrations and is associated with insulin resistance, as well as changes in renal function, protein metabolism, and hematological markers.