Such factors may occur in dogs. Dogs tend to become overweight when they are between 2 and 12 years of age, especially around the 6 year mark. Young dogs, too, in general, are less likely to be overweight since their energy requirements are high since they are growing and are generally more active. A dog becoming overweight when under two years of age is a real warning sign. For me, large amounts of chocolate come to mind.
Animals have similar responses to stress.
Some nutritionists feel dogs may overeat simply because they are bored and there literally is not much else to do. Some dogs may not get into the garbage can because they are hungry but because they need something to do - the food they find is just a bonus. The competition for food, whether perceived or actual, makes some dogs much more focused on their food and can lead to obesity. Conversely, an inside dog uses relatively few calories to maintain normal body temperature. Various medications can influence metabolism and appetite.