Service dogs in a matched survey were more physically active and had higher odds of being fed grain-free diets than companion dogs.

Service dogs have higher activity levels and greater grain-free diet exposure, warranting tailored nutritional and musculoskeletal monitoring.

This cross-sectional study utilized data from the Dog Aging Project's Health and Life Experiences Survey to compare health status, diet, and physical activity between service dogs and companion dogs. A total of 240 service dogs were matched by signalment to 240 companion dogs, with data collected through December 31, 2021. Service dog owners reported higher rates of lower household income (under $39,999 annually) compared to companion dog owners. Both groups were similarly rated by owners as having very good to excellent overall health, and approximately 50% of dogs in each group received daily joint supplementation. Service dogs demonstrated significantly higher physical activity levels, including 15% more total daily activity minutes and longer leashed activity duration. Service dogs also had nearly twice the adjusted odds of having been fed a grain-free diet at some point (OR 1.98; 95% CI, 1.18–3.33). The study highlights that service dogs experience a distinct lifestyle compared to companion dogs, with higher activity demands and differential nutritional exposures. These differences may have implications for musculoskeletal health and cardiovascular risk, particularly given the association between grain-free diets and dilated cardiomyopathy. The authors caution about inherent selection bias and call for further research to clarify functional health outcomes. Clinicians working with service dogs should consider tailored monitoring strategies and proactive client communication around nutrition and joint health.

This summary was distilled by AI and may occasionally misinterpret data. Confirm critical details with the primary literature before clinical application.