Can NMN Reverse Your Dog's Aging and Extend Healthspan? 

As dog lovers, we want our canine companions by our side for as many years as possible. And we want those years to be filled with joyful moments - playful romps, cozy snuggles, and soulful gazes that speak to the deep bond we share.

But as much as we wish they could stay puppies forever, the reality is that dogs age much faster than we do. Large breed dogs are considered "senior" by 6-7 years old, while small breeds reach that milestone around 7-10 years. And with aging comes many of the same challenges we face - stiff joints, flagging energy, "senior moments."

While we can't stop the march of time, exciting research shows we may be able to support our dogs' health and vitality as they age - all the way down to the cellular level. The key lies in a molecule called nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN).

NMN is what's known as an NAD+ precursor. NAD+ is a coenzyme that plays a crucial role in cellular energy metabolism, DNA repair, and other vital functions. But NAD+ levels decline with age.

By providing the building blocks for NAD+, NMN supplements aim to support the cellular processes that keep our dogs feeling youthful and vibrant. Here's a closer look at the science and how it may help our furry friends enjoy their golden years to the fullest.

 

The Link Between NAD+, Aging, and Health

NAD+ enables cells to convert nutrients into energy, regulate cellular metabolism, maintain healthy DNA, and control inflammation and cell survival. But studies show that NAD+ levels can drop by up to 50% as we get older.

This NAD+ decline is thought to be a key factor in many age-related conditions. Boosting NAD+ has become a major focus of longevity research. And the most promising and well-studied way to raise NAD+ is by supplementing its precursors like NMN.

Hundreds of animal studies suggest that restoring NAD+ levels with NMN may help prevent age-related physical decline, support heart health, improve brain function, enhance insulin sensitivity, boost energy, and more. It essentially acts as a fuel to keep cells functioning optimally.

While research in dogs is limited compared to mice and humans, a few encouraging canine studies have emerged. Let's dig into some key findings related to aging.

 

NMN Shows Promise for Supporting Healthy Aging in Dogs

Safety First

Before supplementing, we need to know an ingredient is safe for our precious pups. While no published research has evaluated NMN's long-term safety in dogs, a recent study looked at short-term toxicity.

Healthy beagles were given either 300 or 1200 mg of NMN per day for 12 weeks. The results were promising - NMN was well tolerated and didn't cause significant side effects beyond mildly elevated uric acid levels in some dogs receiving the higher dose.

More safety research is needed, especially for long-term use. But this initial data, combined with an excellent safety profile in mice, suggests veterinarian-formulated NMN supplements may be a safe way to support well-aging in dogs.

 

Maintaining Muscle Strength and Movement

If you have a senior dog, you may have noticed they don't jump into the car or scamper up the stairs like they used to. Muscle loss and joint pain are common culprits behind this slowing down.

Research shows NMN may help by improving energy metabolism and reducing inflammation. One mouse study found that giving older mice NMN for 12 months slowed age-related changes in muscle, increased grip strength, and enhanced physical activity levels.

While more studies are needed to confirm benefits for dog muscles and mobility, the effects in mice are certainly encouraging. Pairing NMN with a joint supplement may help keep your older dog moving comfortably.

Boosting Energy and Vitality

Another hallmark of aging is lower overall energy and decreased ability to exercise. This was also evaluated in the mouse study mentioned above.

Researchers found that the NMN-supplemented mice maintained better aerobic fitness, blood sugar control, and bone density as they aged compared to untreated mice. The mice essentially maintained more youthful metabolism and energy levels.

For dogs, this could translate into more interest in play, greater stamina on walks, and better overall vitality. Combine NMN with plenty of mental stimulation and an age-appropriate exercise routine to help your dog thrive.

 

Supporting Brain Health and Cognitive Function

Have you ever called your dog's name only to get a blank stare? Cognitive decline is another challenge many dogs face as they grow older. And it's a heartbreaking one for owners to witness.

A number of studies suggest NMN may help prevent cognitive impairment by improving brain blood flow, synaptic plasticity, and neurogenesis (growth of new neurons). One mouse study even found NMN reduced beta-amyloid plaques in the brain - a marker of Alzheimer's.

We need more research to know if NMN provides the same brain benefits for dogs. But it may be a valuable nutrient to include in a senior dog's cognitive health regimen, along with enrichment activities, antioxidants, and omega-3s.

 

Promoting Cellular Health and Longevity

Ultimately, NMN seems to support healthy aging by promoting resilience, repair, and vitality at the cellular level. By enabling efficient energy production and maintaining the health of the cell's powerhouses - the mitochondria - NMN helps cells function optimally in the face of age-related stressors.

While it's not a fountain of youth, it may help your dog's body and mind stay biologically "younger" even as the years go by.

 

How to Support Your Dog's Golden Years

So what's the takeaway for dog owners? NAD+ precursors are promising compounds to discuss with your veterinarians, especially if you have a senior dog. Pair them with these tips to make the most of your canine companion's golden years:

Feed a nutrient-dense, whole food diet appropriate for your dog's changing needs. Consider adding joint support ingredients like glucosamine, MSM, and omega-3s.

Focus on maintaining a healthy lean body weight to reduce strain on joints and organs. Offer mental stimulation with food puzzles, nose work games, and trick training. Prioritize quality time together. Take a scenic stroll, cuddle on the couch, learn a new skill - just enjoy your special bond.

Monitor your dog's health closely and schedule regular vet check-ups to catch any issues early. With a little extra TLC and attention to cellular health, you can help your senior dog feel puppy-like well into their golden years. Because they're only here for part of our lives, but to them - we're their entire world.

Let's make those years as joyful, healthy, and love-filled as possible.

References:

1. Liao, B., Zhao, Y. H., Wang, D., Zhang, X., Hao, X., & Hu, M. (2021). Nicotinamide mononucleotide supplementation enhances aerobic capacity in amateur runners: a randomized, double-blind study. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 18(1), 1-8. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12970-021-00442-4
2. Miao, Y., Cui, Z., Gao, Q., Rui, R., & Xiong, B. (2020). Nicotinamide mononucleotide supplementation reverses the declining quality of maternally aged oocytes. Cell Reports, 32(5), 107987. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.celrep.2020.107987
3. Mills, K. F., Yoshida, S., Stein, L. R., Grozio, A., Kubota, S., Sasaki, Y., ... & Imai, S. I. (2016). Long-term administration of nicotinamide mononucleotide mitigates age-associated physiological decline in mice. Cell Metabolism, 24(6), 795-806. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cmet.2016.09.013
4. Picciotto, N., Gano, L., Johnson, L., Martens, C., Sindler, A., Mills, K., ... & Seals, D. (2016). Nicotinamide mononucleotide supplementation reverses vascular dysfunction and oxidative stress with aging in mice. Aging Cell, 15(3), 522-530. https://doi.org/10.1111/acel.12461
5. Xie, X., Yu, C., Zhou, J., Xiao, Q., Shen, Q., Xiong, Z., ... & Fu, Z. (2019). Nicotinamide mononucleotide ameliorates the depression-like behaviors and is associated with attenuating the disruption of mitochondrial bioenergetics in depressed mice. Journal of Affective Disorders, 263, 166-174. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2019.11.147
6. You, Y., Gao, Y., Wang, H., Li, J., Zhang, X., Zhu, Z., & Liu, N. (2020). Subacute toxicity study of nicotinamide mononucleotide via oral administration. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 11, 604404. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2020.604404

This article is for informational purposes only. It is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical or veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should never be relied upon or perceived as specific medical or veterinary advice.

We recognize there may be different points of view or opinions on some aspect or even the premise of this article. Our goal at LongTails is to provide the best, clearest, and most helpful information possible to help keep your dog happy, healthy and safe.