#Dog chart years full#

However, this rule does not take into account the breed or size of the dogs. This is the exact opposite of the first system, and the nomenclature we’ll use throughout this article.Ĭalculating Your Dog’s Age in Human Equivalentįor years, people have been quoting the Seven-Year Rule – that 1 dog year is equivalent to 7 human years. In this system, a 5-year-old dog is considered to be 5 dog years or about 36 human years old. “Human year” is the equivalent age of a human being.

The second system uses “dog year” to represent a calendar year in a dog’s life.

For example, a 5-year-old dog would be 5 human years or about 36 dog years old. “Dog year” is the equivalent time of the dog’s lifetime, as a calendar year would be for a human.

The first system uses “human year” to represent a 365-day long calendar year.

Both systems are correct and widely used. However, there are two diametrically opposite, almost conflicting nomenclature systems in which these terms are defined. The terms “dog years” and “human years” are frequently used when describing the age of a dog. However, exceptions may be noted depending on breeds and living conditions. They also have a shorter lifespan compared to smaller dogs. In general, larger dogs grow slower in the puppy stage and age faster in the geriatric stage. This is similar to humans aged beyond 40-50 years of age.Īging profiles in dogs vary across different breeds & adult sizes. They also start losing vision, and other senses. The dogs become less mobile and may develop joint problems such as arthritis, or teeth and gum issues. In some pets, it’s also the onset of age-related problems that are less common in younger ages. The Geriatric stage in dogs is marked by a general decrease in activity levels, tendency to sleep more, and fading enthusiasm in walks or other physical activities. This is equivalent to age 20 – 40 years in humans.

#Dog chart years full#

The dog undergoes many personality and behavioral changes, attaining full emotional maturity over the period of this life stage.

The dog is considered an Adult as soon as sexual characteristics start appearing, for example, the onset of heat cycles in a female puppy. This life stage is equivalent to the first 15-18 years of human life. Bones & teeth grow quickly, and the puppy is extremely active and agile. This is characterized by rapid changes in size and weight. This is when he grows from a tiny lump of fur to full adult size. A dog is considered a Puppy during his early growth period. The life of a dog is broadly divided into three main stages: Puppyhood, Adult, and Senior (Geriatric). Tracking your dog’s age helps you plan for appropriate care, prepare for age-related problems and thereby, improve life expectancy and the quality of life.Īging Profiles & Longevity in Dogs Do all dogs age the same? Regular veterinary examinations can detect problems in older pets before they turn life-threatening. A healthy and balanced diet lowers the risk of developing such life-threatening diseases. But good care allows them to live happy, healthy and active lives in their senior years. But their bodies are constantly changing, and their care should support those changes.Īn older dog is more likely to develop diseases such as diabetes, heart, kidney and liver diseases, arthritis or even cancer. While it’s easy to spot the outward signs of aging such as greying hair and a slower pace, the changes in pet’s internal organs are far less evident. Aging is not a disease, though senior dogs may develop age-related problems. Their exercise and grooming needs too, may change with age.Īs our pets get older, they need extra care and attention. Of course, their diet will need to change to suit their adult life stage and lifestyle. As dogs mature, their training and vaccination needs may settle.

You also need to keep a closer tab on their vaccination schedules while they’re young. Growing puppies have different training & dietary needs than a senior dog. Their training, exercise, veterinary, dietary and even grooming requirements change with their age. A puppy needs different care than an adult or senior dog. Knowing your pet’s age helps you provide for them appropriately. Aging in Dogs Why is it important to know your dog’s age?