In vivo assessment of canine muscle adiposity by real time ultrasonography and image analysis

Introduction Obesity in dogs is a growing concern. Different surveys report a recent increase in dog obesity, their estimates ranging from 22 to over 50%. Surveillance of dog body condition score (BCS) is a routine practice but it is not sensitive enough. Ultrasound (US) assessment of body fat deposits was previously used in different species to predict adiposity, and shows several advantages, like its relative low cost, portability, and great repeatability. In human, intramuscular fat was associated with obesity systemic effects.