Scientists have started to search to recruit 20, 000 Labrador retrievers. This is one of the first studies of its kind. The team of scientists from Edinburgh University wants to determine how diet and physical exercise can influence a dog’s susceptibility to sickness. The owners of the animals will be encouraged to update a web page with the details of physical exercise routines and eating habits of their dogs.

In United Kingdom, Labrador retrievers are among the common breeds of dogs. According to  Dylan Clements, from the Royal (Dick) School  of Veterinary Studies, the data gathered will assist knowing how dos are cared for in UK.

He said, “We hope that assessing the lifestyles and health of a large number of dogs will make it possible for us to identify factors contributing to common illnesses. Ultimately, this may enable us to provide owners with advice on managing their dogs and prevent them developing diseases in future.”

Another member of the organization, Caroline Kisko, said, “Dogs are not able to talk to us and in veterinary consultations when owners describe their dog’s lifestyle it’s not always possible to give the full picture. This study will look at how a dog’s lifestyle and environmental factors affect the dog’s health over time and through this we can ensure better treatment through education for owners on the best care for their pets.”