DOGS in Branksome are among the UK’s heaviest, according to a recent study.

Pets at Home analysed the weights of over half a million dogs across the country and found that pooches in this part of Poole are seventh most likely to be overweight in the country and weigh an average of 43 per cent more than their ideal weight.

Dr Maeve Moorcroft, veterinary advisor for Pets at Home, said: “It’s interesting to see that on average the nation’s dogs are struggling to maintain their ideal weight. One of the things many pet owners struggle with is not spoiling their beloved dog with too many treats and snacks, for example cheese and chocolate, which can be harmful to their health.

“However, just as in humans, eating too many treats and carrying extra pounds can have consequences for canines, including damage to joints, bones and ligaments, problems with breathing and digestion and even quality and length of life in extreme cases.

“That’s why it’s important for pet owners to feed a balanced, nutritious diet to their dog.”

The town where dogs are most overweight is Swinton in Yorkshire, according to the study.

On average dogs in County Durham’s Consett are closest to their ideal weight, at just 0.99 per cent overweight. Meanwhile dogs in Bridport and Atherton were actually found to be ever so slightly underweight.