title: Low-maintenance energy requirements of obese dogs after weight loss.
abstract: Weight rebound after successful weight loss is a well-known phenomenon in humans and dogs, possibly due to the fact that energy restriction improves metabolic efficiency, reducing post-weight-loss maintenance energy requirements (MER). The aim of the present study was to estimate post-weight-loss MER in obese pet dogs that had successfully lost weight and did not subsequently rebound. A total of twenty-four obese dogs, successfully completing a weight management programme at the Royal Canin Weight Management Clinic, University of Liverpool (Wirral, UK), were included. In all dogs, a period of >14 d of stable weight ( < 1 % change) was identified post-weight loss, when food intake was constant and activity levels were stable (assessed via owners' diary records). Post-weight-loss MER was indirectly estimated by determining dietary energy consumption during this stable weight period. Multivariable linear regression was used to identify factors that were associated with post-weight-loss MER. The mean length of stable weight after weight loss was 54 (SD 34.1) d. During this time, MER was 285 (SD 54.8) kJ/kg(0.75) per d. The rate of prior weight loss and food intake during the weight-loss phase was positively associated with post-weight-loss MER, while the amount of lean tissue lost was negatively associated with post-weight-loss MER. MER are low after weight loss in obese pet dogs (typically only 10 % more than required during weight-loss MER), which has implications for what should constitute the optimal diet during this period. Preserving lean tissue during weight loss may maximise post-weight-loss MER and help prevent rebound.
authors: Department of Obesity and Endocrinology, Institute of Ageing and Chronic Disease, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Chester High Road, Neston, Wirral CH64 7TE, UK. ajgerman@liv.ac.uk
authors: Alexander J
authors: AJ
authors: German
authors: Shelley L
authors: SL
authors: Holden
authors: Nicola J
authors: NJ
authors: Mather
authors: Penelope J
authors: PJ
authors: Morris
authors: Vincent
authors: V
authors: Biourge
mesh_terms: D000222:Adaptation, Physiological; D000818:Animals; D004283:Dog Diseases / Q000178:diet therapy*; D004285:Dogs; D002149:Energy Intake; D004734:Energy Metabolism; D005260:Female; D008297:Male; D009765:Obesity / Q000178:diet therapy / Q000662:veterinary*; D015431:Weight Loss / Q000502:physiology*