Bette M. Morris Data Commons & Biorepository

The Bette M. Morris Data Commons & Biorepository houses one of the most comprehensive collections of canine health data and biological samples in existence, sourced from the world-renowned Golden Retriever Lifetime Study. Established in 2012 with 3,044 enrolled dogs, this longitudinal study focuses on major canine cancers and other health conditions, providing a robust resource for research into genetics, environmental factors, nutrition, and behavior. Named in honor of Bette M. Morris for her visionary support, the resource underscores her legacy of advancing veterinary science and improving canine well-being.

DATA COMMONS

Researchers from academia, government, nonprofit organizations, and industry are invited to explore this extensive dataset to address critical questions in canine health. Data Commons provides open access to most of the data collected by the Golden Retriever Lifetime Study, covering 11 key subject areas: activity, behavior, dental, disease diagnoses, environment, grooming, geographical locations, lab results, medications, physical exams and reproduction. Data is collected annually on each of approximately 3,000 golden retrievers from both the owners and veterinarians.

To apply for samples along with data, visit our Biorepository application page.

Datasets

Canine Atopic Dermatitis Research Questionnaire (cAD-RQ)

by Morris animal Foundation

no download access

Vaccines

by Morris animal Foundation

no download access

Physical Exam

by Morris animal Foundation

no download access

Please refer to our data use agreement HERE for detailed information. We do not restrict publication rights, but we do request that the Foundation be acknowledged in publications and we ask that we be sent a manuscript prior to publication for review.

All publications using GRLS data and/or samples should include the following acknowledgments:

Acknowledgment: We would like to thank Morris Animal Foundation, its staff members and all participants in the Golden Retriever Lifetime Study, including the dog owners, their golden retrievers and the Study veterinarians who made this work possible.
Funding: The Golden Retriever Lifetime Study and this manuscript were made possible through financial support provided by the Morris Family Foundation, the Mark & Bette Morris Family Foundation, VCA, the V Foundation, Blue Buffalo Company, Petco Love, Zoetis, Antech Inc., Elanco, the Purina Institute, Orvis, the Golden Retriever Foundation, the Hadley and Marion Stuart Foundation, Mars Veterinary, generous private donors and the Flint Animal Cancer Center at Colorado State University. The funders had no role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript.

We also request that you cite the dataset you used appropriately. A citation is provided near the download link for each dataset.