Contagious Canine Cancer: How It Evolved Over 2,000 Years

The canine transmissible venereal tumor is a contagious form of cancer that is common in dog populations across the globe. In a new study, researchers have uncovered surprising information on how this cancer has evolved, and the findings could shed light on the evolution of cancer in humans. CTVT is primarily spread in dogs through …

Dog Sledding Offers A Healthy Dose Of Adventure For Children With Cancer

A team of sled dogs racing through the snowy forests of northern Canada conjures up the timeless spirit of exploration. But the intrepid youths on the sleds may not be exactly what you're picturing - they're young girls and boys with cancer. A young cancer patient bonds with a sled dog as part of an …

UK Labrador Retrievers At Risk Of Middle-Aged Spread

Britain's most popular dog breed can suffer from weight gain in middle age just like people, a UK canine health survey suggests. Labrador Retrievers gain an average of 0.9kg each year between the ages of one and four, putting them at risk of being overweight by the time they reach middle age, the study shows. …

‘Diabetes Dogs’ Can Alert Owners To Sugar Levels

People with diabetes may have a new way to indicate their blood sugar level is too high or too low, by turning to our trusty canine friends, after researchers have found that dogs can help with hypoglycemia monitoring. The study, published in PLOS ONE, is the first of its kind to analyze whether trained dogs …

Why Do Labrador Retrievers Love Food So Much?

 Labrador retrievers love food, say their owners, and they are often more obese than dogs of other breeds. Now, new research published in Cell Metabolism says there may be a biological reason for this. A genetic modification appears to increase a Labrador's interest in food. In developed countries, obesity affects 34-59 percent of dogs, reducing …