Retrospective studies have been helpful for bringing to light information about animal health that may have not otherwise been noticed. In the past few years, there have been many research articles that have focused on spaying and neutering health risks versus benefits. A recent study from U.C. Davis found a greater occurrence of hip dysplasia, cranial cruciate ligament tears and certain types of cancer in spayed or neutered golden retrievers as compared to intact counterparts. The research suggests that health risks are generally greater for dogs that were sterilized less than a year of age. Golden Retriever Study

Now, the Morris Animal Foundation has recently launched a new study called the Golden Retriever Lifetime Study. This study aims to follow 3,000 Golden Retriever puppies through their lifetime, evaluating the many factors that may lead to certain diseases, especially cancer.

"Morris Animal Foundation’s Golden Retriever Lifetime Study is the largest and longest effort ever undertaken to improve the health of dogs. Over the next 10 to 14 years, observational data collected from 3,000 Golden Retrievers will help us learn how to prevent cancer and other diseases that take the lives of dogs too soon." - Morris Animal Foundation

Please visit the link below to find out more about this study. To be included in the study, dogs must be purebred golden retrievers with a three-generation pedigree, younger than 2 years and healthy at the time their owners apply to participate. Owners must be 18 years or older and living in the contiguous United States.

Morris Animal Foundation Study Information Golden Retrievers