You open a can of dog food, and your dog comes running, ready for dinner. It feels good to feed something convenient and nourishing. But that same can might be quietly contributing to inflammation and faster aging inside your dog’s body.
The reason lies in compounds called Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs). These form when proteins or fats react with sugars under heat. They’re a normal part of cooking, but in excess, they can cause oxidative stress, inflammation, and tissue damage over time.
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How AGEs Form in Dog Food
Most commercial dog foods are made by combining meat, fat, and carbohydrates—such as rice, peas, or potatoes—and then cooking them at high temperatures to sterilize and preserve them. This process encourages AGEs to form.
- Canned food is heated to very high temperatures for long periods.
- Kibble is extruded under pressure and heat, then baked again for texture.
- Both often contain starches or fillers that react with proteins and fats during processing.
The result is a product that’s shelf‑stable but chemically altered, with far more AGEs than raw or lightly cooked foods.
What Research Shows
Several studies have examined AGE levels in different types of dog food:
- A 2024 PLOS ONE study found that dogs eating canned and kibble diets had the highest AGE levels in their blood, while those fed air‑dried or lightly cooked diets had significantly lower levels.
- A 2023 BSM Partners analysis reported that wet and dry processed foods contained the most AGEs, while raw and gently cooked diets were lowest.
- A 2021 BMC Veterinary Research study found that dogs fed raw diets showed lower inflammation and oxidative stress markers than those on commercial processed foods.
These results show that processing intensity and carbohydrate content are the main drivers of AGE formation in dog food.
Low‑AGE Alternatives: Canned Fish and Simple Meats
Not all canned foods are high in AGEs. Canned fish packed in water—such as sardines, salmon, mackerel, or tuna—are naturally low because they contain:
- No added carbohydrates, so there’s no sugar available for glycation.
- Minimal processing, just enough heat to preserve safely.
- Beneficial omega‑3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation.
When choosing canned fish for your dog:
- Select products packed in water, not oil, sauce, or brine.
- Avoid added salt, seasonings, or flavorings.
- Choose wild‑caught options when possible.
- Soft bones in sardines or salmon are safe and provide calcium.
These simple canned proteins can be used as meal toppers or occasional meals, adding variety and nutrients without increasing AGE exposure.
How Different Foods Compare
| Food Type | Processing Level | Carb Content | AGE Formation | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canned Dog Food | Very high (sterilized) | Moderate to high | High | Protein + carbs + heat = high AGEs |
| Dry Kibble | Very high (extruded) | High | High | Long heat exposure + starch |
| Air‑Dried / Lightly Cooked | Moderate | Low to moderate | Moderate‑Low | Gentler cooking retains nutrients |
| Canned Fish in Water (sardines, salmon, mackerel, tuna) | Moderate | None | Very Low | No carbs = minimal AGEs |
| Raw Diets | None | Variable | Lowest | Minimal processing |
What AGEs Do in the Body
When AGEs accumulate, they can:
- Promote inflammation by activating the receptor for AGEs (RAGE).
- Increase oxidative stress, damaging cells and tissues.
- Reduce collagen flexibility, affecting joints, skin, and connective tissue.
- Contribute to chronic conditions such as arthritis, kidney disease, and metabolic disorders.
Over time, a diet high in AGEs can make the body work harder to maintain normal function and repair.
Reducing AGE Exposure
You can significantly lower your dog’s AGE intake with a few practical steps:
- Choose low‑carbohydrate, single‑ingredient foods.
- Avoid canned foods with grains, potatoes, or gravy.
- Use canned sardines, salmon, mackerel, or tuna in water as clean protein sources.
- Include fresh, raw, or lightly cooked meals (approved by your veterinarian).
- Avoid overcooking treats or reheating foods multiple times.
These small changes can reduce inflammation and support long‑term health.
The Takeaway
High‑heat, carbohydrate‑containing dog foods—especially canned and kibble diets—are the main sources of AGEs in a dog’s diet. While convenient, they can contribute to chronic inflammation and faster aging over time.
Simpler foods, such as canned fish in water or gently cooked meats, provide clean protein and healthy fats without the chemical byproducts of heavy processing.
Understanding how AGEs form isn’t about fear—it’s about making informed choices. With a few adjustments, you can help your dog maintain better health, mobility, and vitality throughout life.
My name is Danny Jackson and I’m the CEO and Chief Editor behind Petloverguy.com. After spending a decade working with vets and private clients as an animal behavioral and nutritional specialist I co-founded Pet Lover Guy to help other pet parents learn how to interact with, and make the most of the time that they spend with their adopted and rescued best pet friends.
Working with Ella, our chihuahua rescue, we seek to help all dog and cat lovers have the happiest life possible.
