So I always thought one dog year = seven human years, but apparently, it’s way more complicated than that. I read that size and breed play a big role, and smaller dogs actually age slower than bigger ones. Has anyone looked into this? How old would a 7-year-old dog really be in human years?
Yeah, I heard about that too. It’s not a straight 1:7 ratio. A 7-year-old small dog is about 44 in human years, but a giant breed would be more like 56.
Tatum said:
Yeah, I heard about that too. It’s not a straight 1:7 ratio. A 7-year-old small dog is about 44 in human years, but a giant breed would be more like 56.
Wait, why do bigger dogs age faster?
@Drew
Bigger dogs grow fast and their bodies work harder. They’re also more prone to things like tumors and joint issues, which can shorten their lifespan.
I have a Great Dane and a Chihuahua, and the difference in their aging is crazy. The Dane is already slowing down at 5, but my Chi is still full of energy at 9.
Wynn said:
I have a Great Dane and a Chihuahua, and the difference in their aging is crazy. The Dane is already slowing down at 5, but my Chi is still full of energy at 9.
Yeah, Great Danes have a pretty short lifespan. I think they’re considered seniors at like 5 or 6?
Wynn said:
I have a Great Dane and a Chihuahua, and the difference in their aging is crazy. The Dane is already slowing down at 5, but my Chi is still full of energy at 9.
Chihuahuas can live forever, lol. Mine is 13 and still running around like a puppy.
There’s actually a chart for this based on size! Small dogs become seniors at around 10, while giant dogs hit that stage at 5 or 6.
Sage said:
There’s actually a chart for this based on size! Small dogs become seniors at around 10, while giant dogs hit that stage at 5 or 6.
Oh nice, where’d you find the chart?
Sage said:
There’s actually a chart for this based on size! Small dogs become seniors at around 10, while giant dogs hit that stage at 5 or 6.
Oh nice, where’d you find the chart?
It’s based on research, but some vets also use teeth wear and muscle tone to estimate age.
IDK if there’s an exact way to tell a dog’s age, but regular vet visits help. They check things like coat condition and energy levels.
Best way to help your dog live longer? Good food, exercise, and regular vet checkups. A healthy lifestyle makes a huge difference.
FrankMathews said:
Best way to help your dog live longer? Good food, exercise, and regular vet checkups. A healthy lifestyle makes a huge difference.
For real, feeding them junk food can cut their lifespan. Stick to good quality dog food and keep them active.