Recent research highlights that biomarkers such as DNA methylation clocks, telomere attrition, immune markers, hematological indicators, and cognitive scores in dogs show significant parallels with human aging processes, supporting their role in aging studies.

These biomarkers are crucial for assessing biological age, monitoring age-related changes, and evaluating interventions aimed at promoting healthy aging in both dogs and humans.

Companion dogs are increasingly recognized as valuable models for studying human aging because of their shared environment, genetic diversity, and shorter lifespans.

Large-scale projects like the Dog Aging Project are collecting extensive data to better understand aging in dogs and to develop reliable biomarkers.

Despite promising findings, challenges such as breed-specific variability, differences in body size, and inconsistent evidence regarding inflammaging markers like cytokines remain obstacles to standardization.

Indicators of chronic inflammation, including anemia of chronic disease and elevated globulins, have been observed in older dogs, suggesting common aging pathways.

Future research should focus on standardizing measurement protocols, conducting longitudinal studies, and exploring emerging biomarkers related to microbiome composition and oxidative stress.