Dog Years to Human Years Calculator

When we’re working out how old a dog is in human years, the popular opinion is to multiply their age by seven. While it’s true that one year for human development is quite different to one year for a dog’s development, the actual number of dog years to human years depends on several factors, such as breed and size.

We all wish our canine friends could live as long as us humans do, or even longer if possible. But the reality is their life span is not the same as ours and many dogs are already full-blown adults by the time they are two years old. In this article we’ll show you the easiest way to convert dog years to human years to find out exactly how old your dog is.

Why the most famous rule to calculate dog years to human years can sometimes be wrong?

You’ve probably used the following easy-math rule for calculating how old your dog is: multiply their dog age by seven to get their age equivalent in human years. The formula was likely based on the fact that while most humans get to live until they’re 70, dogs live on average 10 years.

However, this rule doesn’t always offer reliable results. The dog’s size and breed play an important part in their life expectancy, with smaller breeds usually living longer than larger breeds. Larger breeds live shorter lives, so they mature more quickly. Large and giant breeds are usually considered to be ‘seniors’ by the time they’re five, while medium-sized dogs won’t reach old age until they’re seven. Small and toy breeds reach seniority around the age of 10.

How to calculate dog years to human?

According to the UK Kennel Club, the general guidelines for determining how old a dog is are the following:

• The first two years of a small dog’s life is roughly the same as 12.5 human years, while it’s 10.5 for a medium dog, and nine for large dogs.
• Each additional year of the dog’s life is then multiplied by between 4.3 and 13.4 years, depending on the breed, to find their human age.

Dog age calculator

We’ve taken these guidelines and turned them into a visual, easy-to-use dog age calculator, so you can find your dog’s age in seconds.

Make sure you choose the option that suits your pet (small breed, medium breed or large breed) and use the slider to find out the equivalent human age of your dog.

Who was the oldest dog in the world?

Although many dog lovers will know of at least one or two dogs in their late teens or early twenties, it is rare to have verifiable records, such as from breeders or vets, to prove their age. One such remarkable case does exist though: according to Guinness World Records, Bluey, an Australian Cattle dog, lived a whopping 29 years and 5 days!

How to help your dog live longer?

Even if your dog won’t set a world record, you can help them have a long and happy life. Here are a few simple things you can do:

Healthy diet

A healthy diet comprised of all the nutrients a dog needs will help keep them happy well into their old age. Here are some handy tips that will help you choose the right food for your dog.

Plenty of exercise

Dog exercise, including daily walks and play sessions, is important for your pet’s health and wellbeing as well. It helps keep their weight under control, build energy and maintain a strong heart and immune system. Here are some ideas for fun dog activities that will keep them busy and moving their body.

Keep up with vaccinations

Dog vaccinations will keep your pet protected from life-threatening diseases so make sure you’re not skipping on any important ones.

Regular vet check-ups

Keep an eye on your dog’s health with regular visits to the vet. Regular vet checkups will help detect any health issues early on and, in some cases, might even prevent them altogether.

Spend as much time together as possible

But most importantly, make sure you show your dog lots of love and affection. Strengthening your special bond will do your dog a world of good and keep them healthy and happy.

Find out how old your canine companion is using the dog age calculator below