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Itchy dog project to tackle canine dermatitis
Only purebred Labradors and golden retrievers can be registered with the project.
Study could impact breeding methods and future treatment

Owners of Labradors and golden retrievers are being invited to take part in a new study into canine dermatitis.

Launching at Crufts, the Itchy Dog Project will be carried out by the University of Nottingham’s Vet School.

The project aims to investigate the potential genetic and environmental causes of canine atopic dermatitis and develop a strategy to reduce the number of dogs affected by the disease.

Owners are being invited to take part in the research online, even if their dog does not have a problem with itchy skin.

“We know that at least 10 per cent of dogs suffer from long-term skin allergies and it can have a serious impact on their lives, and on the owners’ lives in dealing with it,” said vet school research fellow, Dr Naomi Harvey.

“We need to collect data on both atopic (itchy) and non-atopic (non-itchy) dogs from these breeds so we can look for differences between them at a genetic, environmental and behavioural level to help us better understand the causes and impact of the disease.

“Only purebred Labradors and golden retrievers, aged three years and over, can be registered with the project.”

Owners taking part in the study will need to complete an online survey after registering their dog on the Itchy Dog website. The survey will ask questions about their dog’s health and lifestyle and should only take 10 minutes to complete.

Participants will then receive a link to a second survey by email, which will focus on their dog’s behaviour. Eligible dog owners may also be invited to provide a sample of their dog’s saliva so that researchers can analyse their DNA.

“This is a great opportunity for dog lovers to get involved in some citizen science that could have a huge impact on future treatment and possibly even breeding methods,” said professor Gary England, Dean of Nottingham Vet School.

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.