We need your help to improve dog health
One of the hardest parts about carrying out research is trying to find owners and their dogs to participate in studies. More participants means more data, making it more likely that scientists can find solutions to current dog health problems.
Are you a researcher that needs help?
If you would like us to help promote your research, including general breed health surveys, please complete our BARC submission form. Please note: The Royal Kennel Club will not support or assist research that may involve experimental procedures that inflict pain or suffering to animals.
Can you help?
Below is a list of research projects that need your help. Please search by breed and see if you are able to participate. If you can’t, we’d still really appreciate your help spreading the word, especially on social media.
Most recently added research
| Breed and Research | Sample | Name and contact details |
|---|---|---|
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The ManyDogs Consortium aim to understand what the dog community would like to see in future canine science research and using these efforts to support researchers |
Complete the survey here |
Contact Ella Williamson |
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Sussex Spaniel The RKC in collaboration with the Roslin Institute and Sussex Spaniel Association are investigating genetic diversity in the Sussex Spaniel and how this can help support a sustainable and healthy breed population. |
DNA samples from UK Registered Sussex Spaniels. Dogs are being invited directly, however if you are interested or have not received an invitation, please register your interest here. |
Read more about this project here or contact the Health & Breeding Support Team at health@royalkennelclub.com |
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This research study focuses on the moral, emotional, and workplace experiences of people who currently work or volunteer, or previously worked or volunteered, in animal-related fields. |
Complete the survey here. Participants from under-studied areas, particularly breeders, are especially encouraged to take part. |
If you have any questions, please contact Jamie McNally PhD Survey closes: 31 Oct 2026 |
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Border, Jack Russell, and Parson Russell Terrier The aim of the study is to determine the degree of association between the activities of selected small terrier breeds and their behaviour in the home environment. The information obtained through this questionnaire may contribute to a better understanding of the needs of small terrier breeds. |
Click here for the survey |
If you have any questions, please contact the project supervisor via dokoupilova@af.czu.cz |
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Flat Coated Retriever Investigating the genetics of renal dysplasia in Flat Coated Retrievers, with the aim of identifying genetic variants that may be responsible for the disease. In the longer term, this research could help breeders make more informed breeding decisions and reduce the risk of affected puppies being born. |
DNA samples from Flatcoated Retrievers who have been diagnosed with renal dysplasia, or from close relatives of affected dogs, such as parents and siblings can be submitted to the University of Cambridge Canine Genetics Centre. |
To sign up, or read more about this project, visit Renal Dysplasia – The Canine Genetics Centre |
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All breeds This survey aims to better understand the experiences, challenges and needs of all breeders, so we can continue to support responsible breeding through practical, evidence-based action. |
Breeder Insights & Experience Survey – Fill out form All breeders who have bred a litter of puppies within the last 10 years, including non-RKC dogs and crossbreeds. |
If you have any questions, please contact the Royal Kennel Club Health & Breeding Support Team (Royal Kennel Club) |
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Miniature Schnauzer Researchers at the University of Edinburgh are looking for owners to complete their survey investigating the breed’s behavioural traits. The aim of the study hopes to better understand how commonly specific behaviours appear in the population. |
If you have any questions, please contact the Royal Kennel Club Health & Breeding Support Team (Royal Kennel Club) |
All research projects by breed
If you are have any queries about the research being undertaken, or would like more information, please contact the researchers directly.
Multi-breed and other
| Breed and Research | Sample/Survey | Name and contact details |
|---|---|---|
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This research study focuses on the moral, emotional, and workplace experiences of people who currently work or volunteer, or previously worked or volunteered, in animal-related fields. |
Complete the survey here. Participants from under-studied areas, particularly breeders, are especially encouraged to take part. |
If you have any questions, please contact Jamie McNally PhD Survey closes: 31 Oct 2026 |
|
This survey aims to better understand the experiences, challenges and needs of all breeders, so we can continue to support responsible breeding through practical, evidence-based action. |
Breeder Insights & Experience Survey – Fill out form All breeders who have bred a litter of puppies within the last 10 years, including non-RKC dogs and crossbreeds. |
If you have any questions, please contact the Royal Kennel Club Health & Breeding Support Team (Royal Kennel Club) |
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To investigate the potential role of heart disease in unexplained puppy deaths. Breeders can participate by allowing post-mortem heart exams for puppies lost before 4 weeks. |
Heart & lungs For more information please read the owner information sheet |
For further information please contact Caroline Cutler (veterinary cardiologist and project lead) via puppyhearts2025@gmail.com |
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Identifying legal mechanisms to reduce welfare problems arising from the breeding of dogs as companion animals, with a focus on brachycephalic dog breeds. |
Participants will be invited to respond to a 45-60 min interview via video call. |
Further details can be supplied from Tamara Katamine
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All breeds with a chiari-like malformation/ Improving diagnosis and treatment of canine neuropathic pain. |
Dogs with clinical signs of CM/SM by MRI to the RVC for pain assessment, treatment and blood sampling. |
Sandra Sachis
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Researching the development of a collar-held device for lameness detection in dogs Recruiting dogs with any degree of lameness and some sound dogs |
A short session at the University of Surrey School of Veterinary Medicine. To participate, please contact Peter Sewell |
Contact Peter Sewell University of Surrey School of Veterinary Medicine. |
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Researching the genetics and pathogenesis of canine diabetes using blood and saliva samples of diabetic dogs Samples required from dogs with a diagnosis of diabetes (hyperglycaemia, glucosuria). |
Further details and sample submission forms available at www.rvc.ac.uk/diabetesregister |
Contact Brian Catchpole
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All breeds (tumour samples) Flat Coated Retrievers, Rottweilers and Golden Retrievers (buccal swabs) Histiocytic sarcomas and mastocytomas |
To participate, contact David Sargan |
Comparative Genetics Group, Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine University of Cambridge |
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Investigating the effects of Imepitoin (Pexion) on the behaviour of dogs with idiopathic epilepsy Dogs must be between 1-10 years, not yet received anti-epileptic drugs, and only experience single seizures. (Diagnosis must be confirmed by vet or neurology specialist) |
To participate, contact Rowena Packer Holger Volk |
Clinical Investigations Centre For more information contact 0170 766 6058
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All breeds affected by degenerative myelopathy Kinematic and genetic analyses of degenerative myelopathy (DM) |
Dogs participating in the gait analysis will need to travel to the Langford Veterinary Centre. |
Contact Jacob Neeves or call 07791 191314 Dr. Nicolas Granger, Bristol University & Langford Veterinary Centre
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The ManyDogs Consortium aim to understand what the dog community would like to see in future canine science research and using these efforts to support researchers |
Complete the survey here |
Contact Ella Williamson |
Individual breeds A-C
| Breed | Research | Sample | Name and contact details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Australian Shepherd |
The study hopes to scientifically assess whether or not simple measures can be used to legally determine a dog’s type. This research project aims to identify physical shape similarities and difference between different breeds of dog. Currently, in some countries including the UK, the shape of a dog can have legal implications (e.g. under the Dangerous Dogs Act), however there seems to be no systematic study evaluating whether or not such a distinction has any validity |
Three specific conformation photos are needed of the dog from:
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Research is being conducted by the University of Lincoln. For further information please email Health and Breeding Support Team (The Kennel Club)
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| Bavarian Mountain Hound |
To look at the overall health of Bavarian Mountain Hounds in the UK and collect information that will help improve our knowledge on the prevalence of any existing conditions and identify any potential emerging issues, in order to improve the breed’s health and welfare for future generations. |
Complete the survey |
For further information, please contact Health and Breeding Support Team (The Kennel Club)
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| Bichon Frise |
Paroxysmal dyskinesia To investigate the underlying genetic mutation suspected to cause paroxysmal dyskinesia in Bichon Frise – healthy and affected dogs required. |
Blood samples. |
Mark Lowrie Dovecote Veterinary Hospital, 5 Delven Lane, Castle Donington, Derby, DE74 2L
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| Border Collie |
The big brainy Border Collie study Part 1: studying the breed’s brain development and how seizures and behavioural abnormalities arise in the breed. ALL breed owners wanted to complete survey, click here.
Part 2: Recruiting 1-8 year old epileptic and non-epileptic Border Collies. |
Part 1: Complete the survey.
Part 2: Epileptic and non-epileptic dogs for a 1-2 day visit to the centre for an MRI, EEG, behavioural test, sample submission and activity monitoring (no cost to owner).
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Dr Rowena Packer |
| Border Collie |
How dogs hear us: Vocav perception by the domestic dog |
Studying the response of puppies to vocal queues and how this changes as they grow. Non-invasive assessments of hearing at different ages. |
Holly Root-Gutteridge
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Border Terrier |
The aim of the study is to determine the degree of association between the activities of selected small terrier breeds and their behaviour in the home environment. The information obtained through this questionnaire may contribute to a better understanding of the needs of small terrier breeds. |
Click here for the survey |
If you have any questions, please contact the project supervisor via dokoupilova@af.czu.cz |
| Boxer |
To collect information that will help improve our knowledge on what the breeding community would like to see if we were to develop a Kennel Club/ Veterinary Cardiology Society (VCS) heart scheme, and ensure the scheme is suitable for all breeders. This health survey is open to all breeders (or prospective breeders) of Boxers. |
For further information, please contact Health and Breeding Support Team (The Kennel Club)
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Investigating the link between nasal fold bacteria and corneal ulcers. |
Volunteers will need to visit the Queen Mother Hospital in Hatfield and will be given a free eye test.
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A screening day is being held on Saturday 22 October at the RVC’s Queen Mother Hospital at Hawkshead Ln, Brookmans Park, Hatfield, AL9 7TA.
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| Bulldog |
Non-invasive respiratory function assessment in brachycephalic dogs |
Measurements taken from healthy and diagnosed dogs with brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) as well as dogs whose BOAS status is currently uncertain (>2 years of age and hasn't undergone any upper airway surgery). |
Nai-Chieh Liu Tel: 01223 337621 Queen's Veterinary School Hospital, University of Cambridge (measurements taken at this venue, but investigators can come to you where there is the opportunity to take measurements from many dogs at once). |
| Cavalier King Charles Spaniel |
Improving diagnosis and treatment of canine neuropathic pain |
Participants will need to bring their dog(s) to the Royal Veterinary College. |
Sandra Sachis Royal Veterinary College
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Chinese Crested |
Breed health survey To look at the overall health of the Chinese Crested and collect information that will help improve knowledge on prevalence of any existing conditions and identify any potential emerging issues, in order to improve the breed’s health and welfare for future generations. |
For further information please contact: lyndenlyons@outlook.com |
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| Cirneco dell’Etna |
Breed health survey |
For further information contact: Cirneco dell’Etna Breed Health Survey
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| Cocker Spaniel |
Multi-systemic immune-mediated disease in the English Cocker Spaniel |
Samples required from both healthy dogs and dogs diagnosed with chronic pancreatitis and/or immune-mediated conditions. |
Penny Watson Francisca Coddou Tel: 01223360908 University of Cambridge Send samples to: FAO Fran Coddou Department of Veterinary Medicine Madingley Road Cambridge CB3 0ES |
| Clumber Spaniel |
Using DNA testing, the Clumber Spaniel Club is investigating the prevalence of progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) within the UK population of Clumber Spaniels. Any Clumber that is found to be genetically “affected” will be offered a free eye test under the BVA/KC/ISDS Eye Scheme to see if they are also clinically affected by the condition. It is hoped that this study will help to identify how many Clumbers carry the gene for PRA and also how many are actually clinically affected by the condition. |
Samples required from 50 Clumber Spaniels aged 8 years or over. |
For further information please email Clumber Spaniel Club - PRA study or phone Carole Page on 01489 589734 (Clumber Spaniel Breed Health Coordinator)
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Individual breeds D-F
| Breed | Research | Sample | Name and contact details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dachshund | Breed health survey To continuously monitor the overall health of the Dachshund variety’s and collect information that will help improve knowledge on prevalence of any existing conditions and identify any potential emerging issues, in order to improve the breed’s health and welfare for future generations. |
Click here to report. | For further information please email Dachshund Health |
| Entlebucher Mountain Dog |
A survey o look at the overall health, wellbeing and behaviour of UK Entlebucher Mountain Dogs. | Click here for the survey | For further information please contact Entlebucher Mountain Dog Club of Great Britain |
|
Field Spaniel |
To look at the overall health of the Field Spaniel and collect information to improve our knowledge on the prevalence of any existing conditions and identify any potential emerging conditions, in order to improve the breed’s health and welfare for future generations. |
For further information please contact Health and Breeding Support Team (The Kennel Club)
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Finnish Lapphund |
To look at the overall health of the Finnish Lapphund and collect information to improve our knowledge on the prevalence of any existing conditions and identify any potential emerging conditions, in order to improve the breed’s health and welfare for future generations. |
For further information please contact Health and Breeding Support Team (The Kennel Club)
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Flat Coated Retriever |
To record data about the causes of death in the Flat Coated Retriever. Click here for the survey |
For further information please contact a member of the Society Health Sub Committee, contact details available online. |
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Flat Coated Retriever |
Investigating the genetics of renal dysplasia in Flat Coated Retrievers, with the aim of identifying genetic variants that may be responsible for the disease. In the longer term, this research could help breeders make more informed breeding decisions and reduce the risk of affected puppies being born. |
DNA samples from Flatcoated Retrievers who have been diagnosed with renal dysplasia, or from close relatives of affected dogs, such as parents and siblings can be submitted to the University of Cambridge Canine Genetics Centre.
|
To sign up, or read more about this project, visit Renal Dysplasia – The Canine Genetics Centre |
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Investigating the link between nasal fold bacteria and corneal ulcers. The Kennel Club are working with researchers at the Royal Veterinary College. |
Volunteers will need to visit the Queen Mother Hospital in Hatfield and will be given a free eye test. Photographs, measurements of the face and a facial swab will also need to be taken. Volunteers will need to:
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A screening day is being held on Saturday 22 October at the RVC’s Queen Mother Hospital at Hawkshead Ln, Brookmans Park, Hatfield, AL9 7TA. Limited number of spaces are available on a first come first serve basis. If you are interested in taking part please email Amy Andrews |
| French Bulldog | Non-invasive respiratory function assessment in brachycephalic dogs | Measurements taken from healthy and diagnosed dogs with brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) as well as dogs whose BOAS status is currently uncertain (>2 years of age and hasn't undergone any upper airway surgery). Following measurements are taken by the study investigator (appointment required): (1) Respiratory flow trace measurement; (2) DNA sample collections from cheek swabs: (3) head/body dimension measurement using a fabric soft tape and photography |
Email
Nai-Chieh Liu
Tel: 01223 337621 Queen's Veterinary School Hospital, University of Cambridge (measurements taken at this venue, but investigators can come to you where there is the opportunity to take measurements from many dogs at once). |
| German Shepherd Dog | Understanding the genetics of Canine inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in GSDs | Samples required and preservation methods: EDTA blood sample - stored at 4C° before shipping or saliva sample (cheek swab) - stored at room temperature Samples are required from GSDs diagnosed with IBD (at any age) and GSDs older than 8 who are healthy or suffering from conditions other than IBD. |
Prof. Karin Allenspach Atiyeh Peiravan (MSc, MMB, PhD Scholar) To request a saliva collection kit, please email Ativeh Peiravan . Please send samples to: The Clinical Investigation Centre, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL9 7TA |
| Golden Retriever | GOdogs Project – investigating the genetics of obesity in dogs | Saliva/cheek swab sample (using GOdogs kit). Samples are required from all dogs. Any age, any weight status (under, ideal and overweight), healthy (not on regular medication). Dogs will also ideally visit owners local veterinary practice (Free of charge) to be conditioned scored and weighed and their clinical history submitted – they will assist with arrangements. . To participate, please fill out the questionnaire here, or alternatively contact the researchers via their website here. |
Email
Eleanor Raffan
GOdogs Project MRC Institute of Metabolic Science Level 4 Addenbrooke's Hospital Box 289 Hills Road Cambridge CB2 0QQ Tel: (01223) 336792 Please be sure to contact before collecting the samples. The easiest way to do this is via the website. |
Individual breeds G-I
| Breed | Research | Sample | Name and contact details |
|---|---|---|---|
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Havanese |
This survey aims to help us understand factors affecting longevity and causes of death in the breed. |
For further information please Andrea Akkad
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| Havanese | To continuingly monitor the overall health of the Havanese and collect information that will help improve knowledge on prevalence of any existing conditions and identify any potential emerging issues, in order to improve the breed’s health and welfare for future generations. |
Complete an online survey |
For further information please email Andrea Akkad |
| Hungarian Wire Haired Vizsla | To continuingly monitor the overall health of the Hungarian Wire Haired Vizsla and collect information that will help improve our knowledge on the prevalence of any existing conditions and identify any potential emerging issues, in order to improve the breed’s health and welfare for future generations. |
Click here for the health reporting form Click here for the death reporting form |
For further information please contact Health (Hungarian Wire Haired Vizsla association) |
| Italian Spinone |
To look at the overall health of the Italian Spinone and collect information that will help improve our knowledge on the prevalence of any existing conditions and identify any potential emerging issues, in order to improve the breed’s health and welfare for future generations. |
For further information, please contact Elaine Kirkham |
Individual breeds J-L
| Breed | Research | Sample | Name and contact details |
|---|---|---|---|
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Jack Russell Terrier |
The aim of the study is to determine the degree of association between the activities of selected small terrier breeds and their behaviour in the home environment. The information obtained through this questionnaire may contribute to a better understanding of the needs of small terrier breeds. |
Click here for the survey |
If you have any questions, please contact the project supervisor via dokoupilova@af.czu.cz |
| Labrador Retrievers | Breed differences in inhibitory control To use dual measurements of inhibitory control in domestic dogs to investigate behavioural tendencies, and breed differences. This will enable us to make more confident, evidence based recommendations on breed suitability for owners, as well as contribute to basic knowledge and new hypotheses regarding inhibitory control in domestic dogs. |
No sample required. Requirements for participants: • Ages 2-9 years • Healthy (excludes dogs with any disorders affecting mobility, canine cognitive dysfunction, and human or animal directed aggression behavioural problems Click here to sign up. This study only requires owners and their dogs to visit the University of Lincoln on one occasion for a 2 hour task. |
Thomas Rowland
University of Lincoln www.lincolnpetscando.co.uk |
| Labrador Retriever | Dogslife: A longitudinal study of canine health | No samples required at present - online questionnaire only. The project requires you to complete a few questions each month. |
Dylan Clements
University of Edinburgh www.dogslife.ac.uk |
| Labrador Retriever | How dogs hear us: vocal perception by the domestic dog | Studying the response of puppies to vocal queues and how this changes as they grow. Non-invasive assessments of hearing at different ages. |
Holly Root-Gutteridge |
Individual breeds M-O
| Breed | Research | Sample | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mastiff | The study hopes to scientifically assess whether or not simple measures can be used to legally determine a dog’s type. This research project aims to identify physical shape similarities and difference between different breeds of dog. Currently, in some countries including the UK, the shape of a dog can have legal implications (e.g. under the Dangerous Dogs Act), however there seems to be no systematic study evaluating whether or not such a distinction has any validity | Three specific conformation photos are needed of the dog from:
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Research is being conducted by the University of Lincoln. For further information please email Health and Breeding Support Team (The Kennel Club) |
|
Miniature Schnauzer |
Researchers at the University of Edinburgh are looking for Miniature Schnauzer owners to complete their survey investigating the breed’s behavioural traits. The aim of the study hopes to better understand how commonly specific behaviours appear in the population. |
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Individual breeds P-R
| Breed | Research | Sample | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Parson Russell Terrier |
The aim of the study is to determine the degree of association between the activities of selected small terrier breeds and their behaviour in the home environment. The information obtained through this questionnaire may contribute to a better understanding of the needs of small terrier breeds. |
Click here for the survey |
If you have any questions, please contact the project supervisor via dokoupilova@af.czu.cz |
| Parson Russell Terrier | To continuously monitor the overall health of the Parson Russell Terrier and collect information that will help improve our knowledge on the prevalence of any existing conditions and identify any potential emerging conditions, in order to improve the breed’s health and welfare for future generations. | Complete the online health reporting form | For further information Sarah Broadberry |
| Parson Russell Terrier | To establish the level of DNA testing for a range of genetic disorders in UK registered Parson Russell Terriers. | Complete the genetic testing survey | For further information please email
Sarah Broadberry
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Investigating the link between nasal fold bacteria and corneal ulcers. The Kennel Club are working with researchers at the Royal Veterinary College. |
Volunteers will need to visit the Queen Mother Hospital in Hatfield and will be given a free eye test. Photographs, measurements of the face and a facial swab will also need to be taken. Volunteers will need to:
|
A screening day is being held on Saturday 22 October at the RVC’s Queen Mother Hospital at Hawkshead Ln, Brookmans Park, Hatfield, AL9 7TA. Limited number of spaces are available on a first come first serve basis. If you are interested in taking part please email Amy Andrews
|
| Pug | Non-invasive respiratory function assessment in brachycephalic dogs | Measurements taken from healthy and diagnosed dogs with brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) as well as dogs whose BOAS status is currently uncertain (>2 years of age and hasn't undergone any upper airway surgery). Following measurements are taken by the study investigator (appointment required): (1) Respiratory flow trace measurement; (2) DNA sample collections from cheek swabs: (3) head/body dimension measurement using a fabric soft tape and photography |
Nai-Chieh Liu
Tel: 01223 337621 Queen's Veterinary School Hospital, University of Cambridge (measurements taken at this venue, but investigators can come to you where there is the opportunity to take measurements from many dogs at once). |
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Pug |
To investigate the outcome of Pugs suffering with mast cell tumors in the UK. The study will assess the effects of gender, neuter status, and body condition score on the potential outcome of each dog. |
For further information please email. |
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Pyrenean Sheepdog |
To look at the overall health of the Pyrenean Sheepdog and collect information that will help improve our knowledge on the prevalence of any existing conditions and identify any potential emerging issues, in order to improve the breed’s health and welfare for future generations. |
For further information please email. |
Individual breeds S-Z
| Breed | Research | Sample | Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
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Investigating the link between nasal fold bacteria and corneal ulcers. The Kennel Club are working with researchers at the Royal Veterinary College. |
Volunteers will need to visit the Queen Mother Hospital in Hatfield and will be given a free eye test. Photographs, measurements of the face and a facial swab will also need to be taken. Volunteers will need to:
|
A screening day is being held on Saturday 22 October at the RVC’s Queen Mother Hospital at Hawkshead Ln, Brookmans Park, Hatfield, AL9 7TA.
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Shih Tzu |
The BOAS Research Group at the University of Cambridge are conducting a study to identify and define the risk of respiratory disease in different brachycephalic breeds |
For this study, the researchers will perform breathing assessments, clinical examinations, take conformational measurements and may use whole-body barometric plethysmography. This can be done in Cambridge or the researchers can travel in certain circumstances |
To take part please email Francesca Tomlinson |
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Spanish Water Dog |
To continuously monitor the overall health of the Spanish Water Dog and collect information that will help improve our knowledge on the prevalence of any existing conditions and identify any potential emerging conditions, in order to improve the breed’s health and welfare for future generations. |
Click here for the survey
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For more information, or a papy copy of the form, please contact Joy via health@swds.org.uk |
| St Bernard | Breed health survey |
Click here for the survey |
For further information please email
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| Staffordshire Bull Terrier | The study hopes to scientifically assess whether or not simple measures can be used to legally determine a dog’s type. This research project aims to identify physical shape similarities and difference between different breeds of dog. Currently, in some countries including the UK, the shape of a dog can have legal implications (e.g. under the Dangerous Dogs Act), however there seems to be no systematic study evaluating whether or not such a distinction has any validity | Three specific conformation photos are needed of the dog from:
A Consent form will also need to be signed |
Research is being conducted by the University of Lincoln. For further information please email Health and Breeding Support Team (The Kennel Club) |
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Standard Poodle |
Standard Poodles can sadly be affected by bloat (otherwise known as gastric dilation, GD); which can sometimes lead to the emergency condition of “twisted stomach” (GDV). The University of Nottingham together with the Standard Poodle breed club have developed a new survey, which aims to identify approaches that can reduce the likelihood of one or both conditions happening. |
For further information please contact Health and Breeding Support Team (The Kennel Club)
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Sussex Spaniel |
The RKC in collaboration with the Roslin Institute and Sussex Spaniel Association are investigating genetic diversity in the Sussex Spaniel and how this can help support a sustainable and healthy breed population. |
DNA samples from UK Registered Sussex Spaniels. Dogs are being invited directly, however if you are interested or have not received an invitation, please register your interest here. |
Read more about this project here or contact the Health & Breeding Support Team at health@royalkennelclub.com |
| West Highland White Terrier | To identify the current treatment options and their perceived benefit for westie lung disease, and to examine the effect of immunosuppressive therapy in a subset of patients. | Diagnosed or suspicious of the disease | The research is being conducted by the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh. Please visit the Westie lung website for more information and to participate please email (Westie lung disease) research |
| West Highland White Terrier | Non-invasive gait analysis in West Highland Terriers We hope to analyse the way these dogs walk, run and move in their day-to-day life and use this data to produce improved breed-specific hip implants for dogs that need it. |
Sample information We are looking for adult (but not geriatric) dogs who are of normal or better fitness to participate in a session of motion analysis at the main University of Liverpool campus This involves around 20 small infrared markers and sensors attached to the skin with sticky tape. |
For more information please contact: Karl Bates Institute of Ageing and Chronic Disease, University of Liverpool, L69 3BX |
| West Highland White Terrier | West Highland White Terrier – Pulmonary Fibrosis | Breed Health Survey studying pulmonary fibrosis in the breed. Survey open to dogs of any age, healthy and affected dogs, and dogs that have previously died as a result of fibrosis. Click here for survey. |
For further information please email Elodie Roels . |
| Working Cocker Spaniel (WCS) |
To identify Working Cocker Spaniels affected by Episodic Ataxia. 7 WCS all younger than 1yo and born in the UK have already been identified as suffering with episodes of incoordination and body swaying. These episodes may last from few minutes to 24 hours, although dogs are completely normal and healthy between episodes. We are looking to identify other possible affected dogs and perform genetic investigations. |
Providing a video recording of the episodes is mandatory to be enrolled in the study. Sample will be a cheek swab or a blood sample. See attached videos for examples of episodic ataxia. |
Please contact Ana Cloquell for further information or to send a video recording of the episode. |
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Scottish Terrier |
To continuously monitor the overall health of the Scottish Terrier and collect information that will help improve our knowledge on the prevalence of any existing conditions and identify any potential emerging conditions, in order to improve the breed’s health and welfare for future generations. |
Please note dogs should be 6 years old or younger. Complete the survey here |
For further information please contact the Kennel Club Health Team |
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Scottish Terrier |
To collect information and investigate vacuolar hepatopathy in the Scottish Terrier breed in order to better understand and manage the disease. |
Complete the survey here |
For further information please contact the Kennel Club Health Team |
Disclaimer
The arrangements, scope of study, funding/remuneration etc. are matters to be agreed directly between researchers and participants. The Royal Kennel Club provides no warranties or representations about researcher or participant, and the parties should make and rely upon their own enquiries as appropriate.