The University of Missouri Canine Genetics Laboratory conducts research to identify mutations that cause hereditary disorders in dogs.  To date we have identified over 70 disease-causing mutations.  A list of publications that describe many of these discoveries can be found on the lab Publications page.  Once we have identified a disease-causing mutation, we offer a test for it that can be used to screen dogs prior to breeding and for disease diagnosis.  A list of the tests we currently offer can be found on the lab DNA Tests page.

A research project is typically initiated when a dog owner or veterinarian contacts us about a dog with a disorder that appears to be hereditary.  We gather as much information as we can about the disease signs and the identities of any close relatives of the affected dog.  Based on this information, we may screen the dog for known disease mutations.  If the dog does not have a known mutation, we will perform a whole genome sequence analysis.  Based on this analysis in conjunction with assessment of the disease characteristics, we can often pinpoint the genetic basis for the disorder.

If you have a dog that is exhibiting signs of a disorder that appears to be hereditary, please contact us and we will provide you with information on sample and information submission.

Active research projects

Below are short descriptions of some of our current research projects.

Epilepsy in Standard Schnauzers

A seizure disorder characterized by grand mal seizures with onset between 12 and 20 months of age occurs in Standard Schnauzers. A 2023 health survey conducted by the Standard Schnauzer Club of America that included 1,401 Standard Schnauzers owned by 1,055 individuals indicated that the prevalence of idiopathic epilepsy within this group was 1.3%. We are currently undertaking a study to identify the molecular genetic basis for this disorder. For this study, we are recruiting affected dogs, their affected and unaffected littermates and their parents. For each dog enrolled in the study, we would need a blood sample, a completed study questionnaire and a pedigree. If you are interested in participating in this study, please contact Liz Hansen at mucvmk9genetics@missouri.edu.

Glaucoma in Bouvier des Flandres (Bouviers)

Some Bouviers suffer from a form of glaucoma that appears to be inherited as an autosomal recessive trait. We are conducting a study to identify the genetic basis for this disorder. For this study, we are recruiting affected dogs, their affected and unaffected littermates and their parents. For each dog enrolled in the study, we would need a blood sample, a completed study questionnaire and a pedigree. If you are interested in participating in this study, please contact Rebecca Welly at wellyr@missouri.edu.

Epilepsy in Rottweilers

A seizure disorder has been reported in multiple litters from multiple lines of Rottweilers. Affected dogs have had unaffected parents and littermates, suggesting that this is an autosomal recessive disorder. We are currently undertaking a study to better characterize this disorder and to identify its genetic basis. For this study, we are recruiting affected dogs, their affected and unaffected littermates and their parents. For each dog enrolled in the study, we would need a blood sample, a completed study questionnaire and a pedigree. If you are interested in participating in this study, please contact Rebecca Welly at wellyr@missouri.edu.

Scottish Terrier Cramp Disorder (Scottie Cramp)

Scottie Cramp in Scottish Terriers has been reported to be inherited as an autosomal recessive trait characterized by spasms and both hyperflexion and hyperextension of the legs.  Signs become apparent after exercise, excitement or stress and may include a stiff gait and arched spine, becoming immobilized and sometimes rolling onto a side. Affected dogs recover from these bouts quickly with no apparent lasting effect. The signs typically become apparent in puppyhood and do not progress or recede with age. The disorder has been recognized for decades, but the causative mutation has yet to be identified. For this study, we are recruiting affected dogs, their affected and unaffected littermates and their parents. For each dog enrolled in the study, we would need a blood sample, a completed study questionnaire and a pedigree. If you are interested in participating in this study, please contact Rebecca Welly at wellyr@missouri.edu.