Hypertriglyceridemia and Insulin Resistance in Dogs (Planned by SCE)

The normal metabolism of triglycerides and fatty acids in dogs has many unique features. Therefore caution is advisable when extrapolating concepts relating to fat metabolism from other species, especially people, laboratory rodents, and food-producing animals. Endogenously synthesized triglycerides are cleared from circulation more efficiently in dogs than in other species. The role of dietary triglycerides in energy metabolism during exercise is also different in dogs. Fatty acids are stored in adipose tissue and in skeletal muscle, and are the primary energy source for exercise in dogs.

Hypertriglyceridemia is associated with obesity in dogs and with endocrine conditions that affect fat metabolism, including Cushing’s syndrome, diabetes, and hypothyroidism. These same conditions are also associated with insulin resistance. Therefore it is problematic to determine causal relationships between hypertriglyceridemia and insulin resistance in dogs.

The current evidence in dogs pertaining to associations between hypertriglyceridemia, insulin resistance, and related health conditions will be discussed.

1. Outline the normal physiology of fat metabolism in dogs, including dietary and exercise interactions.

2. Describe the potential causal relationships that determine an association between hypertriglyceridemia and insulin resistance in dogs.