About us

The Expertise Centre for Veterinary Genetics is the Dutch knowledge and research centre in the field of genetics of companion animals. We work in an interdisciplinary team of veterinary specialists, geneticists, and bioinformaticians. Our research is focused on hereditary diseases and the eradication of harmful conformational traits in dogs and cats.

Our goals are:

  • To identify disease-causing DNA mutations and improve the understanding of inherited disorders in dogs, cats, and humans.

  • To develop clinical screening programs to support the selection of breeding animals based on scientific research.

  • To share knowledge and create awareness about inherited disorders with veterinary students, veterinary professionals, breeders, pet owners, and other stakeholders.

In this way, we work towards a future of sustainable breeding of companion animals, where health, welfare, and sociable character are prioritised.

The people behind the Expertise Centre for Veterinary Genetics.

Collaborations and partnerships

Society is facing three main topics related to dog and cat welfare:

  • Welfare implications due to extreme anatomical conformations

  • High frequency of hereditary diseases in certain companion animal populations

  • Welfare issues related to the (illegal) trade of dogs and cats

  • Behaviour problems, including fear and aggression, which can result in bite incidents of people or other animals

These issues have a profound impact on both humans and animals. To structurally address these issues, the Expertise Centre for Veterinary Genetics collaborates with several stakeholders, including:

  • The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security, and Nature ()

  • The Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority ()

  • The Royal Dutch Veterinary Association (KNMvD)

  • FairDog

  • Various breed clubs

  • Animal protection organisations

  • Universities in the Netherlands and abroad

Our team