How to calculate a dog’s age
In the past 10 days, the topic of calculating the age of pets has aroused heated discussions on social media. In particular, "how to calculate the age of dogs" has become the focus of pet owners. Many people mistakenly believe that a dog's 1 year old is equal to a human's 7 years old, but in fact this algorithm is not scientific. This article will combine the latest research and hot topics on the Internet to reveal the true calculation method of dog age.
1. Misunderstandings of traditional algorithms
For a long time, people have been accustomed to using the formula "dog age × 7 = human age" to calculate, but scientific research shows that this algorithm is too simple. Epigenetic research published in the journal "Cell Systems" in 2020 shows that the aging rate of dogs is not linear, but changes in stages.
| dog age | traditional algorithm | Actual corresponding to human age |
|---|---|---|
| 1 year old | 7 years old | About 31 years old |
| 2 years old | 14 years old | About 42 years old |
| 4 years old | 28 years old | About 53 years old |
| 7 years old | 49 years old | About 62 years old |
2. Scientific calculation method
The research team at the University of California, San Diego proposed a more accurate calculation formula: human age = 16 × ln (dog age) + 31. where ln represents the natural logarithm. This formula takes into account the rapid maturation of dogs in their early years and slower maturation in old age.
The following is a comparison table of the average lifespans of common dog breeds:
| Dog breed | average life span | Beginning age of old age |
|---|---|---|
| chihuahua | 12-20 years old | 10 years old |
| golden retriever | 10-12 years old | 7 years old |
| german shepherd | 9-13 years old | 6 years old |
| bulldog | 8-10 years old | 5 years old |
3. Factors affecting dog age
1.body size differences: Small dogs generally live longer than larger dogs but mature more quickly. For example, one year old for a Teddy dog is equivalent to 30 human years, while one year old for a Great Dane may be equivalent to 45 human years.
2.health status: Dogs who undergo regular physical examinations are "younger" than dogs of the same age. The condition of teeth is an important indicator. Dogs with severe dental calculus may be 2-3 years older than their actual biological age.
3.lifestyle: Dogs with moderate exercise age 20%-30% slower than dogs of the same age who exercise excessively or lack exercise.
4. How to determine the true age of a dog
Veterinarians usually judge based on a combination of the following characteristics:
| Check items | youthful features | Characteristics of old age |
|---|---|---|
| Teeth | White and sharp | Yellowing and wear |
| eyes | clear and bright | Turbid with discharge |
| hair | Smooth and shiny | Dry and gray |
| muscles | Tight and elastic | flaccid |
5. 5 suggestions to extend the life of your dog
1.Scientific feeding: Choose special food according to age. Puppies need high protein, and elderly dogs need low phosphorus formula.
2.Regular physical examination: Once a year for adult dogs and once every six months for those over 7 years old, including blood tests and ultrasound.
3.oral care: Brushing your teeth three times a week can reduce the risk of heart disease by 40%.
4.moderate exercise: Daily walking time = weight (kg) × 1.5 minutes to avoid joint damage.
5.psychological care: Interact more with dogs. Loneliness will accelerate aging, which is equivalent to a human age increase of 5-8 years.
Recently, the number of views of the topic #MydogsForeverYoung on social platforms has exceeded 200 million, and many owners have posted comparative photos of how to keep their 10-year-old dogs young through scientific maintenance. Remember, knowing the true age can provide the most appropriate care for our pets, so that they can stay with us longer.
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