Porky pooches have piled on the pounds during lockdown in Milton Keynes, survey reveals

And Labrador Retrievers have been named as the ‘porkiest’ breed, with the average dog gaining 4.1 lb since the beginning of the year.

The research conducted by dog-friendly holiday specialists Dog Friendly Retreats found more than half the owners admitted to overfeeding their dog with snacks and treat because they were spending more time with them during the day in lockdown.

A third of owners said the number of walks they had taken their dog on had reduced, with three quarters said they had not been prioritising their dog through lockdown.

Research by PDSA vets suggests dog obesity was already a growing problem with 31 per cent of owners not knowing their animal’s current weight nor body condition score, and with 15 per cent of believing that giving their pet scraps/leftovers was an appropriate main daily meal.

Additionally, it was discovered that 1.3 million UK dogs (13 per cent of dogs) are not walked every day, which are all contributing factors to obesity.

The Dog Friendly Retreats survey found the average dog had gained 2.7lb. Pets living in households with children were the exception though, and many of these had stayed slim.

French Bulldogs were named as the second chubbiest breed, with the average dog putting on 3.8 lb. Next were Daschunds, who put on 3 lb on average, followed by Beagles (2.1 lb ) and German Shepherds (2lb).

The research, which can be seen here, is accompanied by a guide on how to increase a dog’s activity levels, as well as the best-rated walks in the UK for humans and their canine companions. The guide includes vet-approved top tips such as how to keep your dog moving regularly and safely monitor their food intake.

Josh Williams of Dog Friendly Retreats, said: “Dogs are still undeniably mans’ best friend but sometimes we can treat our friends just a little bit too well. I’m not surprised that being home with our dogs more often is affecting their weight, after all, it’s been affecting the waistlines of us humans too!"

He added: “Helping our dogs get back in their prime is as simple as a few lifestyle tweaks and I’m sure the whole family will feel happier and healthier for it, including our furry friends.”