The Science of Aging in Dogs: How NAD+ Levels Decline

We all want our furry companions to live long, happy, and healthy lives. But just like humans, dogs experience changes at the cellular level as they age. One of the key players in this process is a molecule called NAD+. Understanding what NAD+ is — and why it matters — can help us support our dogs’ vitality as they grow older.

What is NAD+?

NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a natural molecule found in every cell of the body. Think of it as the “fuel manager” of the cell:

• It helps turn food into energy.
• It supports DNA repair.
• It regulates healthy cell function.
• It keeps the body’s defenses against stress and damage working properly.

In simple terms, NAD+ is essential for life — without it, cells can’t function.

How NAD+ Changes with Age in Dogs

Research shows that NAD+ levels decline as dogs (and humans) get older. This decline leads to:

• Lower energy production → older dogs may tire more easily.
• Slower cellular repair → the body struggles to recover from daily wear and tear.
• Weaker stress response → cells are less able to fight inflammation and oxidative stress.
• Visible signs of aging → stiffness, slower movement, duller coat, reduced playfulness.

This natural decline in NAD+ is one of the reasons our dogs don’t have the same boundless energy in their senior years as they did as puppies.

Why Supporting NAD+ Matters

By maintaining healthy NAD+ levels, we can potentially:

• Improve cellular energy → more vitality and playfulness.
• Support joint and muscle health → better mobility.
• Enhance cognitive function → keeping older dogs sharp and engaged.
• Promote healthy aging → overall quality of life.

Can We Boost NAD+ in dogs?

Scientists have discovered that precursors to NAD+, such as NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide), may help the body restore NAD+ levels. While research is ongoing, early studies in animals suggest NMN supports healthier aging, better energy metabolism, and improved cellular repair.

For dogs, this opens exciting possibilities: instead of just treating the symptoms of aging, we may be able to support their cells from the inside out.

A Better Future for Our Pets

Aging is a natural process, but understanding how NAD+ works gives us a chance to help our dogs age more gracefully. By supporting their cellular health, we can keep tails wagging, walks longer, and snuggles more energetic for years to come.

Because our pets deserve to live their best lives — at every age.