Genetics of aging in pet dogs and why it matters for us
Official title: Project 2: Genetics of Aging and Aging-Related Traits in Companion Dogs
Funded at Tufts University Boston · NIH-11420293 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers are studying how genetics shape aging in pet dogs to understand why some dogs live longer and stay healthier.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tufts University Boston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2026 |
| Project end | August 31, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $596,484 |
| NIH project number | 1U19AG092282-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11420293 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are companion dogs across breeds that are part of large pet-owner communities and can provide DNA samples and health information.
✕Less likely to help
Dogs not enrolled in the study or without available owner-reported data may not benefit directly.
What this research studies
This project uses data from thousands of companion dogs to map genetic factors linked to aging and age-related traits. Researchers will combine advanced genome analysis with owners’ observations to connect genetic differences to how dogs age and develop conditions common in aging. The study aims to create a new framework for interpreting canine longevity and its environmental influences, which could also shed light on human aging biology. Results could inform breeding choices and care strategies to promote healthy aging in dogs and potentially inform human aging research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, findings could lead to better aging biomarkers and care strategies for dogs, and offer insights that may translate to human aging research.
How similar studies have gone: Prior canine genetics studies have shown that breed- and population-level analyses can reveal aging-related genetic factors, supporting this approach's potential.
Where this research is happening
-
Tufts University Boston
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Akey, Joshua Michael — Tufts University Boston
- Study coordinator: Akey, Joshua Michael
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.