BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM

If you’ve ever wished your dog could live forever, you’re not alone. And while immortality isn’t on the table, science is uncovering simple, practical steps we can take to give our pups a longer, healthier life.

Researchers at the Dog Aging Project, a nationwide study exploring the science of canine longevity, have been digging into the behaviors and lifestyle factors that influence your dog’s lifespan. Their findings are refreshingly doable. As veterinary epidemiologist Audrey Ruple of Virginia Tech explains, “As humans have become individually bonded to their dogs, we’re thinking about their lifespan in the same way we think about our own.”

Here’s what the experts recommend.

Exercise daily and stay consistent

One of the most powerful things you can do? Move more. “The body of evidence overwhelmingly shows that physical activity is linked to better cognitive health, and fewer medical diagnoses,” says Kate Creevy, a professor at Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and Dog Aging Project researcher.

Exercise lowers obesity rates, which is a major risk factor for diabetes, osteoarthritis, incontinence, and breathing issues. But consistency matters. Dogs that lie around all week and go full speed on the weekends are at risk of injury. “Just like people, that kind of intermittent extreme activity is more likely to cause injuries,” Creevy says.

The Association for Pet Obesity Prevention recommends 30 minutes of aerobic activity daily, but needs vary. Herding and sporting breeds may need more, while others are fine with shorter walks. And you don’t have to overthink it. “The best exercise is the one you and your dog will do,” says Creevy.

Encourage canine companionship

Social dogs tend to be healthier dogs. According to a 2023 study, pups with more human and animal companions had fewer diagnoses of arthritis, allergies, and digestive issues.

“Dogs are a social species, just like people,” says Creevy. Social interactions, whether with people or fellow pets, stimulate dogs mentally and may protect against age-related cognitive decline. In fact, enriched environments with toys, games, and playtime have been linked to sharper brains in older dogs.

Make time for games, outings, and safe dog-to-dog interactions. “If you do these kinds of things throughout their life, you might be able to postpone cognitive decline,” Creevy adds.

Consider spaying or neutering

Spaying or neutering your pet is associated with a longer life. For females, spaying reduces the risk of mammary cancer and eliminates uterine or ovarian cancer. For males, it prevents testicular cancer and may lower the risk of prostate problems.

Neutered pets are also less likely to run off searching for a mate or act aggressively, lowering the chances of trauma from fights or car accidents. While many shelter animals are already fixed, talk to your vet about the best timing for your breed.

Choose food based on science, not fads

Trendy diets for pets abound, but they’re not always safe. Raw food can carry dangerous bacteria like salmonella, and home-cooked meals often miss key nutrients. Even too many table scraps can cause serious problems like pancreatitis.

Overfeeding is one of the most common and preventable causes of poor health in dogs. “It becomes a vicious cycle,” says Creevy. Obesity can lead to joint problems, liver and kidney issues, and a decline in activity.

Dogs with lean body mass tend to live longer, sometimes by more than two years. Ruple notes, “That’s something we see across all breeds, weights, and life stages.”

Stick with pet foods that meet nutritional standards set by Association of American Feed Control Officials (look for a statement on the label). “Keep it simple,” advises Erik Olstad, assistant professor of primary care at the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine.

Make regular vet visits a habit

Annual wellness visits are essential for catching issues early and extending your dog’s health span. A 2023 study found that dogs regularly examined by a vet were 30 percent less likely to develop chronic illnesses.

Vaccinated dogs had 40 percent fewer contagious diseases, and those on flea, tick, and worm meds had 35 percent fewer parasitic infections. Ideally, your dog should visit the vet once a year—and twice a year once they hit their senior years.

Don’t skip the dental care

Oral health is more important than many pet parents realize. Dental disease can lead to serious infections and worsen existing conditions like heart disease. “It’s like putting gasoline on a fire that’s already present,” Olstad says.

Daily brushing is best, but even a few quick swipes a few times a week make a big difference. “It is not a heavy lift compared to how we have to brush our own teeth,” Creevy notes.

The ultimate goal isn’t just a longer life, it’s a longer, healthier life. As Olstad puts it, “An animal can live to 20, but if those last three years are hell for that dog? That’s not what we’re looking for.”