Pudgy dogs die more than two-and-a-half years earlier than pets of a healthy weight, a study of 20 years of veterinary records has shown.

Researchers at the University of Liverpool examined the lifespan of 50,000 dogs from 12 popular breeds taken to 900 Banfield Pet Hospitals in the US between 1994 and 2015.

They discovered that in all breeds being overweight reduced longevity, from a minimum of five months in German Shepherds to two years and six months for male Yorkshire Terriers.

Dogs that are overweight are more likely to suffer problems such as joint disease, breathing issues, and cancer, as well as having a poorer quality of life, which could impact lifespan, researchers believe.

Alex German, Professor of Small Animal Medicine at the University of Liverpool, said: “For many owners, giving food, particularly tasty table scraps and tidbits, is the way we show affection for our pets.

“Owners are often unaware that their dog is overweight, and many may not realise the impact that it can have on health.

“Being careful about what you feed your dog could go a long way to keeping them in good shape and enabling them to be around for many years to come.”