Insulin Resistance and Pancreatic Beta-Cell Function in Obese Dogs: A Case-Control Study at Veterinary Clinics in Abuja

Canine obesity is a growing health concern in urban Nigerian companion animal practice, associated with an increased risk of orthopaedic disease, respiratory compromise, dermatological disorders, and endocrine dysfunction. The relationship between obesity, insulin resistance, and impaired pancreatic beta-cell function has been well-characterised in humans but remains incompletely described in Nigerian companion dogs. This study conducted a case-control investigation of insulin resistance and beta-cell function in obese and lean dogs presented at veterinary clinics in Abuja, Federal Capital Territory. Thirty obese dogs defined as body condition score above 7 on a 9-point scale and 30 lean control dogs with body condition score of 4 to 5 were enrolled. Fasting plasma glucose, insulin, C-peptide, triglycerides, and cholesterol were measured. An insulin sensitivity index was calculated from fasting insulin and glucose using established formulae. A modified oral glucose tolerance test was performed to assess dynamic beta-cell response. Obese dogs had significantly higher fasting insulin concentrations, lower insulin sensitivity indices, and significantly higher C-peptide levels compared with lean controls. Dynamic glucose tolerance testing showed delayed return to baseline glucose in obese dogs, consistent with impaired insulin action. Triglycerides and cholesterol were significantly elevated in the obese group. Insulin resistance severity correlated positively with body condition score. These findings confirm clinically relevant insulin resistance in obese Nigerian companion dogs and highlight the need for targeted nutritional and weight management programmes at Abuja veterinary clinics to reduce metabolic disease risk. Keywords: insulin resistance, obesity, dogs, beta-cell, Abuja.