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Participate in Research

Canine health researchers are seeking dogs to participate in studies that will advance science and improve canine health. Whether you live near a research institution or can participate remotely, your involvement can make a difference. Join us in advancing research that leads to healthier lives for dogs of all breeds and backgrounds!

Join a Research Study

University of California, Davis Logo
2025 Active Grant
Liver Health ● $233,211.00
03429: Characterization of Copper Associated Hepatopathy in Labrador Retrievers: A Multi-omics Approach
Sample Type: Blood Sample, Tissue Sample
Breed(s): Labrador Retriever
Study Location: University of California, Davis
North Carolina State University Logo
2024 Active Grant
Epilepsy ● $19,848
03243-A: Comparison of Clorazepate and Levetiracetam as Pulse Therapy for the In-Home Management of Cluster Seizures in Dogs with Idiopathic Epilepsy: A Pilot Study
Sample Type: Clinical Study
Breed(s): All Dogs
Study Location: North Carolina State University
University of Pennsylvania Logo
2024 Active Grant
Hemangiosarcoma ● $73,257
03187: Investigating Volatile Organic Compounds as Potential Markers of Canine Hemangiosarcoma by Trained Bio-detection Dogs
Sample Type: Blood Sample
Breed(s): All Dogs
Study Location: University of Pennsylvania
Cornell University Logo
2023 Active Grant
General Health & Wellness ● $113,914
03172: Identification of Genetic Risk Factors for Gingival Enlargement in Boxers
Sample Type: Blood Sample
Breed(s): Boxer, Bulldog
Study Location: Cornell University
Washington State University Logo
2023 Closed Grant
General Health & Wellness ● $11,081
03180-A: Agility Dog Activity Load Measurement Using a Web-based Application and Handler-provided Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE)
Sample Type: Clinical Study
Breed(s): All Dogs
Study Location: Washington State University
University of Zurich Logo
2023 Closed Grant
Skin & Allergies ● $114,048
03162: Fecal Microbiota Transplantation for Treatment of Canine Atopic Dermatitis
Sample Type: Clinical Study
Breed(s): All Dogs
Study Location: University of Zurich

Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) DNA Repository

The Canine Health Information Center (CHIC), co-sponsored by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) and the AKC Canine Health Foundation (CHF), is a DNA repository that collects and stores canine DNA specimens along with associated genealogical and phenotypic data. This resource supports future research aimed at reducing the prevalence of inherited diseases in dogs.

Objectives:

  • Accelerate research by streamlining specimen collection
  • Provide researchers with optimized family groups for research
  • Enable breeders to access future DNA-based disease tests as they become available
  • Encourage collaboration between breeders/owners and researchers to support genetic discovery

Visit the CHIC DNA Repository and Certification Program to learn how your participation – whether by providing samples or updating the health history of dogs with existing samples – helps advance canine health research.

Learn More