A new study from Cornell University and The Farmer’s Dog suggests that fresh, human-grade dog food could help dogs age more healthily by improving metabolism and reducing harmful compounds linked to aging.
With the help of Board-Certified Veterinary Nutritionists at The Farmer’s Dog and Dr Heather Huson, Associate Professor of Animal Sciences at Cornell University, the study found that fresh, minimally processed diets can alter canine metabolism in quantifiable ways, potentially leading to long-term health and longevity benefits.
“For years, people have been telling us their dogs are thriving on fresh diets like The Farmer’s Dog, and this study finally shows what’s happening beneath the surface, a significant metabolic transformation,” said Jonathan Regev, Co-founder and CEO of the company. “The gap between highly processed pet foods and minimally processed real food may be even wider than we imagined, and could redefine what’s possible for canine health and longevity.”
Measurable Health Improvements
The study team evaluated 22 elderly Alaskan sledge dogs, who were given either regular kibble or a dish from the company, over the course of a year. The outcomes were remarkable:
-Advanced glycation end products (AGEs), which are toxic substances connected to ageing and chronic illness, were considerably reduced in dogs fed a fresh diet.
-Improved blood sugar regulation was suggested by lower levels of 1,5-anhydroglucitol and sucrose.
– Higher ergothioneine, carnosine, and anserine levels indicated better cellular defence and less oxidative stress.
-Fresh-fed dogs had greater levels of omega-3 fatty acids (ALA, EPA, DPA, and DHA) as well as indicators of lipolysis and healthy ketosis.
-Lower malonate levels indicated a more balanced metabolic profile and less fatty acid production.
“The magnitude and consistency of the metabolic impacts we observed were quick, sustained, and striking,” said Dr Joseph Wakshlag, DVM, PhD, DACVSMR, DACVIM (Nutrition), one of the veterinary nutritionists involved in the study. “Fresh, minimally processed food shifted the dogs’ metabolism toward a beneficial profile with markers for improved muscle and neurological health, antioxidant defence, and reduced AGE formation.”
The Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine provided ethical permission for the study, which supports mounting evidence that diet processing levels have a significant impact on a pet’s long-term health.
As research continues to show a strong link between fresh diets and healthy ageing in dogs, The Farmer’s Dog, which is well-known for its freshly prepared, human-grade meals, said the findings may have an impact on future dietary guidelines for elderly pets.
