WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (AP) _ The director of Purdue University's Center for Animal Welfare Science will lead a two-year research project to develop and test nationwide animal care standards for the commercial breeding and raising of dogs.

Director Candace Croney says the goal is to provide breeders with uniform standards for dog care and well-being in all 50 states.

Croney says many states have standards but they vary from place to place. She also says several factors that significantly impact dog welfare _ such as their housing _ have not been well studied, raising questions about the basis and adequacy of current standards.

The project is funded by the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council, Pet Food Institute and World Pet Association. Additional support comes from the federal government.