How To Calculate Dog Years

So, your pup is a year older (and hopefully wiser). You think to yourself, “how old is my dog in dog years?”

Since the 1950s, dog owners have been calculating their dogs’ age using the formula, whereby 1 dog year is the equivalent to 7 human years. However, the actual number of dog years in relation to human years will actually depend on several essential factors, including size and breed.

This makes calculating your dog’s actual age a bit trickier than previously thought, even though the formula seems simple to use. So how old is your dog, really? Read on to find out how to calculate dog years accurately. Including a more recent, updated method, that might just surprise you! 

 

How Do You Calculate Dog Years?

The easiest way to calculate dog years is by using the popular calculation method. As mentioned, this method has been used for quite a long time. With this method, you simply multiply your dog’s age in human years by 7. For instance:

 

If your dog has lived for five years, you need to multiply 5 by 7 to find out its age in dog years.

 

So, the formula will be: 5 human years x 7 = 35 years.

 

However, this formula shouldn’t be the only age determinant as it doesn’t always provide reliable results, given that other factors can also affect a dog’s age.

 

A dog’s size and breed will also play an essential role in its general life expectancy. With this in mind, smaller breeds tend to live longer than larger ones. A larger dog is considered to be a senior before they’ve reached 5 years, while a small dog will reach old age at about 10 years old. Medium-sized dogs tend to be considered seniors by the time they are about 7 years of age.

 

According to scientists, a better, more accurate formula for calculating dog years exists. With the new formula, dog years can be accurately determined by considering the following guidelines:

 

• The first year of a dog’s life will be equivalent to 15 human years. Making it 15 dog years old on its first birthday.

 

• The second year of the dog’s life will be equivalent to 9 additional human years. Or nine additional dog years on your pet’s second birthday.

 

• From the third year going forward, every additional human year will be about 4 years for your pet.

 

For example, if a medium-sized dog is 3 years old, then the formula to calculate its age will be 15 + 9 + 4 = 28 dog years.

 

At this point, you’re likely wondering “so how old is my dog in human years?” Well, we’ve got you covered! You can use the handy chart below to find an accurate number for your dog’s age. 

 

Why Do Dogs Age Faster Than Humans?

Dogs have a higher metabolism, a faster heartbeat, and a different genetic make-up compared to that of humans. These ultimately result in a dog’s body wearing faster. Unfortunately, a dog’s lifespan will not be anywhere near that of a human. As a result, dog years for your pal or the expected lifespan in human years is a good thing to keep in mind. Though seemingly short-lived, compared to human standards. In a loving home, a dog’s years will generally tend to be filled with countless memories of happiness, endless excitement, and love.

There are also various things that can be done to help ensure your fur baby lives the longest, and happiest life possible. A few would be spending quality time with your dog, and exercising with it regularly. This can be done by simply going on regular walks, or even jogs if your pooch can handle it. Playing fetch, and running around in a field, or even your backyard is also a great alternative. This would be a great benefit not just for your pooch, but for you as well! Showing your pup genuine love and affection is also a mutual benefit for both you and your pet and helps to strengthen your special bond. Diet will also be an important factor to consider, which will help keep your dog happy and healthy, to extend its life.,