Biological signals that predict lifespan appear in dogs ^{CEFR B2}

New research from the Dog Aging Project shows that many of the same biological signals used to predict lifespan in humans also appear in dogs. The study, published in The Journals of Gerontology and supported by the WoodNext Foundation, reports that patterns of molecules linked to earlier or later death are remarkably similar across species. Kate Creevy, chief veterinary officer for the Dog Aging Project and a professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, said the molecules that are risky for dogs or protective against a sooner death are very similar to those in people.

The team analyzed blood samples collected in a long-term community science study, where owners provide detailed surveys and some give annual biological samples. Researchers examined thousands of metabolites at once and looked for groupings or patterns—often described as a "fingerprint"—rather than focusing on single molecules. These measurable biological signals are called biomarkers; Creevy noted a biomarker does not necessarily cause an outcome, but studying why it is present may point to a cause.

To test whether the same signals appear in people, the researchers compared their dog results with five large published human studies that used similar metabolite approaches. In each case, patterns linked to earlier or later death were similar. Dogs are useful models because they share environment, diet and activity with people and have shorter lifespans (on average 12–13 years versus people who on average live into their 70s), which allows researchers to observe comparable outcomes faster. The nationwide Dog Aging Project depends on owners who volunteer samples and information, and Creevy said the findings mark a starting point for exploring causes and possible targets to improve health over time.

• Keep dogs on a healthy diet
• Maintain a healthy body weight
• Preserve mobility and cognitive health