Dogs age differently to humans. This is why the term 'dog years' has developed to describe the age of a dog compared to a human. A common myth is that one dog year equals seven human years. However, this calculation is inaccurate.
Calculator
All information is without guarantee
Use calculator:
- Enter the age of the dog in the calculator.
- Click on
How do you calculate dog years? And is the widespread assumption that one dog year equals seven human years true?
Myth: 1 dog year = 7 human years
Many of us have heard that one dog year equals seven human years. This would mean that a 7-year-old dog would already be 49 years old in human years. But this calculation is too simplistic and does not reflect reality.
Factors that influence the age of a dog
There are various factors that determine how quickly a dog ages:
Size and breed: large dogs generally age faster than small dogs. A large dog can be considered "senior" at 5 years of age, while a small dog is just reaching mid-life at this age.
Genetics: Some breeds are more prone to certain health problems that can affect their age.
Health and nutrition: A healthy lifestyle can slow down ageing.
A more accurate conversion
An often recommended method for calculating dog years to human years is:
- A dog's first 2 years are equivalent to 24 human years.
- Each additional year equals 4 human years.
Using this method, a 5-year-old dog would be 36 human years old (24 4 4 4 = 36).
Why is the conversion important?
Converting dog years to human years can help veterinarians and dog owners better understand a dog's stage of development and health. It helps with preventative care and provides insight into what health challenges to expect in the coming years.
Conclusion
It is important to understand that dogs do not simply age in a fixed proportion to humans. Calculating dog years is more complex than a simple multiplier. Nevertheless, it provides a useful guideline to better understand the age and needs of our four-legged friend.