Welcome to the Canine Genetics Centre
Our Research
We investigate the genetic basis of inherited diseases that affect dogs and identify genetic variants that underpin those diseases.
Our News
Keep up-to-date with everything we do via our regular news articles – research updates, publications & fundraising efforts.
Our Publications
We endeavour to publish all of our research in peer-reviewed journals as soon as possible. Check out our current publication list.
Become a Friend of the CGC
By making a regular donation, as a friend, you will be helping to contribute to our future financial stability. Thank you!
Becoming a Friend of the CGC is easy. Simply set up a direct debit for £5 or more ($10 in the United States) a month. That’s it. By making a regular donation you will play a crucial role in enabling us to keep our extensive programme of research running.
DNA Tests available from CAGT
Support the Canine Genetics Centre by using Canine Genetic Testing (CAGT) for all your DNA testing needs.
The CGC undertakes research leading to the development of DNA tests, offered by CAGT. All profits from CAGT are reinvested in future research undertaken at the CGC.
Main Research Areas
Inherited Eye Diseases (CRIEDD)
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
Sudden death in Labradors
Get involved with our research!
If you would like to get involved in any of our areas of research, including collaboration please contact us.
Or, if you are interested in contributing sample(s) to our research please do request a swab kit.
About us
We aim investigate the genetic basis of inherited diseases that affect dogs and identify genetic variants that underpin those diseases.
Using the group’s unparalleled level of skill and expertise within canine genetics, since the inception of the CGC, 22 DNA tests have been developed to identify carrier and affected dogs from 50 breeds.
Our Team
With more than 100 years of combined experience in canine genetics, our group offers a substantial breadth of expertise that underpins and strengthens our research.
Cathryn Mellersh
Senior Research Associate
Katherine Stanbury
Research Associate
Ellen Schofield
Research Associate (Bioinformatician)
Louise Pettitt
Research Assistant
Bryan McLaughlin
Research Coordinator
Jim Johnson
TBC
Bruno Lopes
PhD Student (& Vet)
Our work in numbers
Having developed more than 40 DNA tests and published over 100 papers in canine genetics, our work has contributed to the prevention of inherited disease in over one million dogs.
DNA TESTS DEVLOPED
43
PUBLICATIONS
108
SAMPLES ARCHIVED
+43K
DOGS TESTED
+1M
Explore Our News Articles
Banking DNA from popular sires as an investment in the future health of a breed
A week ago the Royal Kennel Club (RKC) published[…]
Companion Animal Genetic Health 2025 – Cambridge
Scientific research is all about discovering new things and[…]
Can you be our Friend this holiday season?
The Canine Genetics Centre set up their Friends scheme[…]
Engage with us
If you would like to hear from us with updates about what we are working on, exciting new results and events, there are are number of ways to keep in touch. You can subscribe to our mailing list or follow us on social media.
