VetGen - The leader in veterinary genetic disease research and genetic disease detection services for purebred animals

Genetic Disease


VetGen is working toward the development of new DNA Tests for inherited diseases in many breeds of dog. Participation in VetGen's research is completely free and confidential. Samples are conveniently collected using our oral cheek swab kits. Current major research projects include:

Early-onset (or Juvenile) cataract
VetGen is interested in collecting samples from families of dogs in which two or more are affected.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy
We are interested in collecting samples from a few affected dogs.

Canine Hip Dysplasia
We are interested in collecting samples from families of dogs in which two or more are affected.

Inherited Epilepsy
We are interested in collecting samples from families of dogs in which two or more are affected.

von Willebrand's Disease (vWD)
VetGen is interested in collecting samples from dogs that have had a low result on the vonWillebrand's factor assay test, or dogs that have had a history of bleeding thought to be due to vWD. To date vWD testing is available through VetGen for the Doberman Pinscher, Scottish Terrier, Poodle, Manchester Terrier, Shetland Sheepdog, Pembroke Welsh Corgi and Bernese Mountain Dog.

Breeds Early Onset (or Juvenile) Cataract Progressive Retinal Atrophy Canine Hip Dysplasia Inherited Epilepsy von Willebrand's Disease
Airedale Terrier families
Alaskan Malamute families
All not listed in description low vWF/bleeders
American Cocker Spaniel families affecteds
Australian Shepherd families
Beagle families
Bernese Mountain Dog families
Boston Terriers families
Bullmastiff families
Collie families
Dalmatian families
English Springer Spaniel families
German Shepherd families families
Golden Retriever families families
Irish Setter families
Labrador Retriever families affecteds families
Miniature Schnauzer families
Newfoundland families
Old English Sheepdog families
Poodle families affecteds
Portuguese Water Dog affecteds families
Rottweiler families
Samoyed families


Please keep in mind that VetGen is currently collecting samples from these breeds. In the future and as research develops, we will expand the number of breeds in which we collect samples.

Dog lovers who are interested in helping VetGen's research should contact us.