Why Younger Really Is Better

(When It Comes to Your Dog’s Stem Cells!)

We all want more good years with our pets. And while we can’t control everything, research shows there is something you can do early on that could make a big difference down the track: store their stem cells.

At Elita Genetics, we keep a close eye on global studies that explore how stem cells work and how they can help. One standout piece of research from 2017 looked at how a dog’s age at the time of cell collection impacts the quality of their stem cells. Spoiler: younger dogs win.

So what did the study show?

Researchers took fat samples from two groups of dogs, some young (1–3 years old) and some older (8–10 years), and looked closely at the cells they could extract. They tested how quickly the cells could grow, how well they could multiply, and how effectively they could transform into different cell types that support healing in things like joints, bones, and cartilage.

The younger dogs’ cells didn’t just perform better, they outperformed in nearly every way:

• They grew faster and more efficiently.
• They showed fewer signs of ageing.
• They had stronger potential to develop into different types of healing cells.

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In other words, the earlier you bank your dog’s cells, the more high-functioning those cells are likely to be, and the more options you may have down the track if your dog ever needs them.

Read the full study here

Why does this matter?

Whether it’s for arthritis, joint issues, or other chronic conditions, stem cell treatments are already helping pets heal using their own biology. But when these treatments rely on your dog’s own cells (known as autologous therapy or personalised medicine), the quality of those cells can make a real difference.

We know from global research, and from our own lab experience, that stem cells collected earlier in life tend to grow more efficiently and show stronger regenerative potential. That’s why storing your dog’s cells sooner can help unlock the full benefit of stem cell-based care down the track.

Think of it a little like fertility science. In humans, collecting earlier often leads to better outcomes. With dogs, we see a similar trend: younger cells are typically more active and resilient. But thanks to our proprietary protocols and techniques at Elita, we’re able to collect and preserve high-quality cells at many stages of a dog’s life.

The bottom line? The earlier you store, the better. But no matter your dog’s age, acting now ensures their healthiest cells are safely stored and ready for use.

When’s the right time?

Many owners choose to store their dog’s stem cells during desexing, but that’s not the only chance. Any time your dog is going under anaesthesia, there may **be an opportunity to collect.

That’s why the best thing you can do is plan ahead**,** because the earlier you take this step, the stronger those cells are likely to be.

What should I do next?

Sign up today to ensure your dog gets first access to storing their healthy cells. You’ll be the first to know when you’re eligible, and give them the best chance at more good years together.