Obesity is a chronic metabolic disease that arises as a result of complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors, which underscores the importance of exploring and implementing evidence-based prevention strategies.To provide insight into the pathogenesis and treatment of obesity, animal models are indispensable research tools. This review summarizes the classification and characteristics of the available animal models of obesity, emphasizing the advantages and disadvantages of each. It thus provides a reference for the selection of an appropriate models for each study.