How old is your dog in human years? If you have a dog as a pet, you must have heard of the rule that one dog year is equal to seven human years. But it turned out that this method of calculation is wrong. Scientists have discovered a new formula with which you can accurately determine your dog's age in human years.
Aging in dogs is not the same. Smaller dogs live longer and mature more slowly, while the opposite is true for larger breeds. Scientists have found that every 4.4 kilograms of body weight shortens a dog's lifespan by about one month. In addition, furry pets age faster in the first years of life, and the aging process slows down in later stages. So every dog's year is not the same, just as aging is not the same between different breeds. So – how old is your dog in human years?
A dog's age is also influenced by genetics, which is why some dogs have a higher risk of hereditary diseases. Of course, the dog's lifestyle also plays a big role, such as diet, amount of exercise and medical history.
How to calculate dog years?
The calculator for calculating dog years is based on the guidelines and recommendations of the American Veterinary Medical Association and determines:
- The first year of a medium-sized dog's life is equivalent to the first 15 years of a human's life.
- The second year of life is equal to 9 human years.
- Each subsequent year of a dog's life is equivalent to about five human years.
There is also another formula for calculating dog years into human years based on the natural logarithm method. To calculate dog years, you need to find the natural logarithm of your dog's age (Ln), then multiply this number by 16 and add 31.
The formula for dog years to human years is: 16 x ln (dog years) + 31 = human years. You can also calculate the flight algorithm here.
For example, if your dog is 12 years old, he is 71 years old in human years. The formula looks like this: 16 x 2.5 + 31 = 71.
Photo: envato elements
Signs of aging in dogs
Some signs of aging in dogs include:
- Gray hair
- Poor vision and blurred eyes
- Hearing problems
- Muscle and joint stiffness, arthritis
- Lower activity level
- Changes in behavior (increased anxiety, confusion, irritability)
Dog aging can be difficult for owners to accept, so it's important to take advantage of every moment with man's best friend.
How to take care of an older dog?
As with humans, dogs also develop health problems as they age, so it is important to visit the vet regularly and ensure proper care. Proper nutrition, sufficient exercise and love are the keys to a quality old age for your dog.
