Cocker Spaniels

She has been pestering mum to get her a pet puppy for several years now but to no avail.

Now, dogs are taking on a new role - they are helping in the hunt for genetic mutations that lead to diseases in humans.

For centuries man has had a uniquely close relationship with dogs a ' as a working animal, for security and, perhaps most importantly, for companionship.

For centuries man has had a uniquely close relationship with dogs a ' as a working animal, for security and, perhaps most importantly, for companionship.

Washington, Oct 17 : Man's most loyal and sincere friend, the dog is now helping scientists hunt for genetic mutations, the source of diseases in humans.