What is WoofAge?
In the United States alone, more than two million dogs are adopted every year, often with little to no information about their age or life stage. This can lead to challenges in providing tailored care and preventative health measures. WoofAge by Woofgenix aims to bridge this gap. Developed by an expert team that includes epigenetic clock pioneer Dr. Morgan Levine, PhD, WoofAge utilizes the field of epigenetics to accurately predict any dog’s age, life stage, human age and even an approximate birth date.
What Can Your Dog’s DNA Tell You About Their Age?
DNA is the blueprint for all biological functions, carrying the instructions that govern cellular behavior in all complex organisms, including dogs. However, DNA itself is only part of the story; recent research has revealed that how DNA is regulated is equally as important. This regulation happens through factors like DNA methylation, an epigenetic marker that controls gene expression based on various factors such as health, lifestyle, and age. Essentially, DNA methylation marks can change the “instructions” for DNA without altering the sequence itself.
As dogs age, DNA methylation occurs in a predictable pattern, allowing it to be used as an accurate biological “clock.” Scientists, including the Woofgenix team, have found that analyzing thousands of these methylation markers creates a clear signature of age and health status. With this insight, WoofAge leverages advanced machine-learning algorithms trained on a comprehensive database of dog breeds, sizes, and age ranges to predict the biological age of any dog with remarkable precision.
How Does WoofAge Work?
WoofAge employs advanced genetic analysis and proprietary computational methods to separate true age signals from noise in your dog’s DNA. By analyzing thousands of DNA methylation sites across the canine genome, WoofAge identifies patterns specific to aging and life stage. Our team has developed a robust reference database of DNA samples, representing a wide range of breeds, ages, and life stages, which powers the accuracy of WoofAge’s age predictions.
The WoofAge process includes:
- DNA Sample Collection: Owners simply take a saliva sample from their dog, which is then processed in our lab.
- DNA Methylation Analysis: Using microarray technology, we assess thousands of methylation markers across the genome to determine their age-specific patterns.
- Machine Learning-Based Age Prediction: Our custom-trained algorithm matches the methylation patterns from your dog’s DNA with patterns in our reference database, creating a highly accurate age estimate and life stage classification.
What Are the Benefits of Knowing Your Dog’s Biological Age?
For pet owners, knowing your dog’s age is more than just a fun fact—it’s a crucial component of optimal care. Since dogs of different sizes, breeds, and baseline health status age at varying rates, the estimated biological age provided by WoofAge can help guide more accurate life stage-based care.
For example:
- Juvenile and Young Adult Dogs may benefit from tailored training and socialization routines, setting the foundation for lifelong health.
- Mature Adults and Seniors can benefit from targeted nutritional supplements, joint health support, and routine health screenings for early disease detection.
- Geriatric Dogs often require specialized diets, increased medical attention, and mobility aids to support comfort and quality of life.
Proactive Health Care Based on Life Stages
WoofAge doesn’t just estimate age—it also provides insights to help you optimize your pet’s health at each life stage. Proactive care can extend canine longevity and enhance quality of life. Our life stage algorithm considers your dog’s breed, size, and baseline health, recognizing that factors like aging differ significantly between breeds.
Our life stage guides offer guidance on everything from exercise routines to recommended veterinary screenings based on your dog’s specific age and life stage, ensuring they receive care tailored to their unique biological profile.
Why Choose WoofAge for Your Dog’s Health and Longevity?
WoofAge stands apart not only because of its scientific rigor but also thanks to the expertise and commitment of the Woofgenix team. Led by industry leaders like Dr. Christopher Minteer, PhD and Dr. Morgan Levine, PhD, WoofAge combines years of research in genetics and epigenetics with state-of-the-art technology. Every WoofAge test is a product of years of dedicated research, making it one of the most accurate and reliable methods for estimating a dog’s age.
In addition to age estimation, WoofAge enables dog owners to be proactive and involved in their pet’s health journey. From age-appropriate care tips to health milestone tracking, WoofAge equips you with the tools to celebrate every stage of your dog’s life—bringing science and love together for a healthier, happier pet.
