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Analysis and Health

Can a pill really reverse ageing in dogs? Don't get your hopes up yet

A trial suggests that giving older dogs a supplement makes them cognitively sharper, but some scientists stress that pet owners should lower their expectations

By David Cox

14 March 2024

Dogs can become less sharp with age, adopting behaviours such as pacing and staring into space

JPagetRMphotos / Alamy

Separating a potentially effective drug from background noise is a challenge in any medical field, but perhaps particularly in the much-publicised longevity industry. In one of its most recent ventures, researchers have claimed that a supplement given to ageing dogs can reverse some of their cognitive decline. But before dog owners start wagging their tails with delight, some researchers are concerned they could be barking up the wrong tree.

and her colleagues at North Carolina State University recruited…

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