Research is pushing the boundaries of what we might do for our dogs to give them healthier, longer lives. Here are some of the main research areas currently under investigation:
1. Anti-ageing pharmaceuticals
- The Dog Ageing Project is running large-scale rapamycin trials to test whether this drug, known to extend lifespan in mice, can improve longevity, cognition, and heart health in pet dogs.
- Biotech startup Loyal is developing LOY‑002, a daily anti-ageing pill targeting metabolic health in senior dogs (10 years+), with FDA backing for “reasonable expectation of efficacy.” Trials are underway with over 1,000 dogs enrolled.
2. Big data and longitudinal studies
- The Dog Ageing Project continues to gather massive amounts of real-life, long-term data on tens of thousands of privately-owned dogs. The project tracks how lifestyle, genetics, environment, and demographics relate to ageing trajectories.
3. Genetic and epigenetic biomarkers of ageing
- Researchers are mapping how DNA methylation (epigenetic changes) and oxidative stress markers predict ageing in dogs. They are finding more damage to DNA in large breeds with shorter lifespans, versus smaller breeds.
- Early science from other animal models explores noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) as key drivers of extended lifespan, illuminating foundational mechanisms of ageing.
4. Gene therapy and translational research
- Genetic research inspired by the Church lab’s work, such as viral-vector gene therapies to counter multiple age-related diseases, has spurred ventures like Rejuvenate Bio, aiming to apply age-reversal strategies in dogs. These translational aging interventions might allow ‘problematic’ genes to be replaced or ‘switched off.’
5. New digital and physiological biomarkers
- Scientists are exploring advanced markers of welfare and ageing beyond cortisol, including heart rate variability and oxidative stress profiling, to gauge canine ageing and wellbeing more accurately. These would offer smarter, non-invasive ways to track ageing and quality of life.
These avenues signal a rapidly evolving field, where veterinary science, biotech, and wellness practices converge with the goal of giving dogs not just longer lives, but healthier, fuller ones.
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