How old is my dog ​​in human years?

As a proud dog owner, you may wonder how old your dog would be in human years. It's a common question, but the answer is not as simple as it seems. There is a myth that one dog year is equal to seven human years. But is this actually correct?

The myth of one dog year = seven human years

Previously, it was commonly believed that a dog's age could be converted to human years by multiplying it by seven. This arose from the observation that dogs live on average shorter than humans and that their development is faster.

However, recent research has shown that this is not an accurate representation of reality. The development process of dogs is not linear, but differs per life stage.

The developmental trajectory of dogs

A dog's development process can be divided into different life stages: puppy, adult and senior. Different growth and development takes place in each phase.

During the first years of life, puppies grow very quickly. In the first year they already reach about 75% of their adult size. This means that they undergo more development in their first year of life than a human child does in the first year.

After the puppy stage, dogs' growth and development slows down. In the adult stage, their body size remains more or less stable, but they can still continue to mature mentally and physically. However, the rate of this aging varies by breed and individual.

How do you calculate the age of your dog?

Although one dog year does not equal seven human years, there is a way to approximate your dog's age in human years. There is no universal formula, but a commonly used approach is the modified formula:

Human age = 16 * ln(dog age) + 31

In this formula, 'ln' represents the natural logarithm, which can be calculated using a calculator or online tool. The number 16 serves as a scale for the rapid growth during the first year of a dog's life.

To apply this formula, first take the natural logarithm of your dog's age, then multiply this number by 16 and finally add 31. This will give you an estimate of how old your dog would be in human years.

Please note that this formula is an approximation and it is important to consider other factors such as breed and your dog's individual health. If in doubt, always consult a veterinarian for advice.

Conclusion

Although the myth of one dog year = seven human years turns out to be untrue, there is a way to estimate your dog's age in human years. Using a custom formula, you can estimate how old your four-legged friend would be if he were human.

However, remember that every dog ​​is unique and there are several factors that influence their development and aging process. It's important to take good care of your dog and have regular contact with a vet to ensure they stay healthy and happy throughout their lives.