How Old is My Dog Really?

by James McMillian

How Old is My Dog Really? Have you ever wondered how old your dog really is? Many people believe that their dogs is seven times his "human age". However, dogs age and mature differently than humans do.The calculations used to compare canine years with human years evolve with research that is more scientific. At one time, it was believed that one year of a canine's life was equivalent to seven years in a human. Later, one year was equal to five years. Neither theory is correct based on many variables and considerations. The common belief that our dog is seven times his age in years does become true, eventually. As dogs become older than three years, they age at seven times their age in years. More about the dog life phases and characteristics: The childhood of a puppy is shorter compared to people. Pups are born with a full set of teeth but permanent teeth begin to appear at around 5 months of age. The pup displays excessive chewing behavior as the new teeth erupt. The young dog requires more food at this time as their bodies grow, develop and to compensate for high energy levels. Males and females are sexually mature at the age of one and are physically mature at the age of 2. The longest living dog is recorded to be 27 years of age while the average dog's life tends to last 12 years. Life expectancy is not the same for all dogs and many factors are considered. Smaller breeds live longer than their larger counterparts. Certain breeds are more prone to health problems like arthritis, tumors, organ and structural defects. Doberman Pinschers are comparable in size to Boxers but outlive them by about 5 years. Lifestyle effects longevity. Working dogs require more physical activity or become depressed and anxiety ridden which contributes to health problems. Dogs that become overweight due to lack of exercise develop health issues. An animal aged 8 or 9 who is expected to have the physical stamina of a dog aged 2 or 3 will experience tissue, bone injuries, and develop arthritis. Over breeding within a family line or breeding an unhealthy animal will result in genetic defects that effect longevity. Animals that are neutered are less likely to develop cancer later in life and rhe risk of cancer decreases the sooner the dog is neutered. This is true regardless of whether the animal is male or female. Proper medical care including vaccinations and treatment for illness or injury affects life expectancy. Whether the animal is properly fed, housed and exercised will all determine longevity. Mature dogs have less food and exercise requirements than an adult dog, as they generally are less rambunctious and calmer. A vet will consider the condition of a dog's teeth and physical structure when determining health age. An animal that appears to be 5 or 6 years old may be older or younger due to their living conditions. The aged dog will have gray or white hair on their faces. They experience vision and hearing loss and the heart and kidneys will start to decline. Physical capability diminishes and temperament may change.

James McMillian is a long time dog lover and pet enthusiast. He currently writes for Pet-Super-Store.com, where you can find dog car seats and pet fences .
Source:www.isnare.com