The question of when dog really starting to get old has been a topic of debate among veterinarians and caregivers for years. Now, a scientific study offers a more precise answer based on thousands of clinical records analyzed in the UK.
According to an investigation carried out by the University of Liverpool and published in the magazine Journal of Small Animal Practicethe process of canine aging has a clear turning point: the age at which veterinarians begin to identify clinical signs associated with old age, which is usually in average at 12 years.
The exact age at which a dog begins to age
According to the study, which examined more than 17,000 dog medical recordsthe specialists determined that the median age at which a dog is considered “senior” is 12.5 years. That was the age when most began to show typical conditions of older dogslike dental problems, arthritis, tumors y metabolic disorders.
The researchers also noted important differences between the races. The Jack Russell terrier and the cocker spaniel They tended to reach old age at a later agewhile large breeds and fast growing showed signs of aging earlier. According to the analysis, certain late groups showed an onset of old age at 14 yearswhile others did so from the 10 years.
The study also confirmed that the life expectancy and the aging speed They depend not only on the size of the dog, but also on factors such as genetics, lifestyle, dental health y physical activity.
What this finding means for pet owners
The authors note that accurately identifying the onset of old age helps veterinarians and caregivers to adjust dietlos care and the preventive checks. According to the study, the dental decay was one of the most common conditions in older dogswhich reinforces the importance of adequate dental hygiene from early stages.
Furthermore, diseases such as osteoarthritislos benign tumors and certain metabolic disorders They increased significantly after the defining age established by the researchers, making that point a crucial reference for intensifying care.
How to use this information on a daily basis
Specialists recommend that, once a dog approaches the 10 or 11 yearsincreases veterinary check-ups and adapt key aspects of your routine:
- specialized food,
- more frequent checkups,
- moderate physical activity,
- weight monitoring,
- pay attention to behavior, as subtle changes can indicate conditions associated with age.
The goal is to prepare a healthy transition to senior stage and improve quality of life in those additional years.
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