Scientists Are Developing New Drug That May Help Dogs Live Longer and Healthier Lives

6 days ago 8

Dog owners everywhere may soon have the chance to give their furry friends the gift of more time. A new class of anti-aging drugs, designed specifically to extend dogs’ lifespans, is being developed by the U.S.-based biotech company Loyal. And if successful, these innovations could pave the way for future longevity treatments in humans too.

Celine Halioua, the founder and CEO of Loyal, says the goal is to help dogs live longer, healthier lives. Before launching the company in 2019, Halioua worked on therapies for neurodegenerative diseases in humans. That experience inspired her to target aging in animals — especially dogs — which she describes as a condition still lacking true preventive care.

Loyal currently has three drugs in development. Two of them, LOY-001 and LOY-003, are focused on large breed dogs aged 7 and older. These breeds, such as Great Danes and Mastiffs, often have tragically short lifespans. Scientists believe this is due in part to elevated levels of a hormone called IGF-1, which fuels rapid growth but may also accelerate aging. These drugs are designed to reduce IGF-1 levels, potentially slowing down the aging process.

LOY-001 would be administered as an injection several times a year, while LOY-003 is a daily chewable pill. Both are in early-stage pilot studies, with conditional FDA approval possibly coming in 2027.

But the most promising development so far is LOY-002, aimed at senior dogs over 10 years old who weigh at least 14 pounds. This drug targets the metabolism — a core system responsible for energy, repair, and cell maintenance. As metabolism slows with age, it can lead to diseases like cancer, osteoarthritis, and cognitive decline.

LOY-002 is now undergoing a large-scale clinical trial involving more than 1,200 dogs across 70 veterinary clinics — one of the largest in veterinary history. Early results show no adverse side effects after three months, and Loyal hopes the drug can eventually add at least one healthy year to a dog’s life.

Loyal isn’t stopping there. They envision a future where longevity drugs are as common as flea or heartworm prevention. Once approved, these treatments could become essential tools for supporting a pet’s health span — not just their lifespan.

Interestingly, the research may also hold insights for human aging. Dogs share our environments and develop age-related diseases in much the same way we do, making them ideal models for studying health interventions. “We’re on track to develop the first-ever FDA-approved drug for longevity — for any species,” Halioua said.

The company’s work is deeply personal for Halioua. Growing up surrounded by animals, she now keeps her Rottweiler, Della, close by as both a companion and an inspiration for her mission.

Science has long shown the benefits dogs provide their humans. From reducing blood pressure and stress to improving mood and even lowering the risk of dementia, dogs already help us live longer. Now, thanks to new science, we may finally be able to return the favor.

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