Fillable Printable Dog Age In Human Years Chart

Dog Age In Human Years Chart

When Is My Dog Considered a “Senior”?

A touch of gray on the chin or around the muzzle;

once-clear eyes becoming a little cloudy. A slight

stiffness in what used to be a frisky gait. Any of

these can be telltale signs that your furry friend is

entering the “golden” years.

Clevengers Corner Veterinary Care | 18157 Lee Hwy | Amissville, VA | 540-428-1000

http://www.clevengerscorner.com

Generally speaking, a dog 7 years of age or older

qualifies as a senior. This varies, however, with the

size and breed of the dog. For instance, smaller

dogs tend to have longer life spans than giant-

breed pets. A giant-breed dog as young as five years

of age may be considered a “senior,” while a small-

breed dog may not rea ch senior st atus unti l 10 to 13

years of age. Other factors affecting how individual

dogs age include body weight, nutrition, environ-

ment, and overall health.

The old adage that every year in a dog’s life is

equivalent to seven “human” years isn’t quite accu-

rate. Pets mature more rapidly during the first two

years of life, and then again during the final third of

their life span. Use the chart at right to determine

your dog’s age in human years.

Why is important to know your dog’s true age?

Pets are living longer than ever, thanks to ad-

vances in veterinary care and improved nutri-

tion, providing their owners with many more

years of love and faithful companionship. The

trade-off, however, is that senior pets, just like

their aging human companions, become more

vulnerable to multiple health problems and dis-

eases such as weight gain and decreased mobil-

ity; heart, kidney, and liver diseases; diabetes;

dental problems and periodontal disease; be-

havioral problems and cancer. The good news is

that many of these health problems can be pre-

vented, controlled, or treated if detected in the

early stages.

Once your dog has reached senior status, twice-

a-year senior wellness exams are recommended

as the standard of care by the American Animal

Hospital Association. Ask us how our Senior

Care program can make your pet’s golden years

happy and healthy!

Circle your dog’s age in human years