Veterinarians determined the exact age of old dogs

The results of a new research show that some dog breeds reach old age much faster than others. This study, conducted by researchers at the University of Liverpool, has determined the age at which vets consider dogs to be old.

According to the scientific service of Tekna Technology News Media, veterinarians have announced the average age of 12.5 years to start aging in dogs. The report found that younger breeds generally age more slowly, with some entering old age as young as 14.1 years. In contrast, older breeds tend to reach old age earlier, with some of these breeds being classified as old at 12.1 years of age.

“This is the first time that research has been conducted that shows when veterinarians consider dogs to be old or elderly at some point in their lives,” said study leader Kerry Westgarth.

While this study looked at age differences between dogs, it’s interesting to note that British dogs live longer, based on previous data. In fact, it is estimated that senior dogs make up to 40% of veterinary office patients. The research also highlights that until now, scientists have been unable to pinpoint exactly when veterinarians consider dogs to be old. This study, published in the Journal of Small Animal Medicine, says: “Understanding the characteristics of old age and how it differs from problems caused by age-related diseases can help to better manage dogs in the old stages.”

In this research, the medical records of 832 old dogs from six popular breeds were examined. The results of this study showed that the average age that veterinarians consider dogs to be old is 12.5 years. Meanwhile, Jack Russell Terriers are not considered old dogs until they are 14.1 years old. While mixed races enter old age at 13.2 years. Also, Border Collies are considered old at 12.7 years of age and Spring Spaniels at 12.5 years of age.

Labrador retrievers are classified as old dogs at 12.1 years, other breeds at 12.3 years, and cocker spaniels at 11.7 years. The study also identified five common health problems in older dogs. Weight-related problems, including overweight, underweight and weight loss, are at the top of these problems and affect 35% of dogs.

Musculoskeletal problems, which include stiffness and movement problems, are in the next category and one third of the studied dogs are facing these problems. Also, 31 percent of senior dogs have dental problems, and 28 percent of them have skin problems, including lumps, infections, or hair loss. Finally, 22% of dogs experience digestive problems such as vomiting and diarrhea in old age. Overall, the researchers believe that the results of this study show that dogs do not age at the same rate. “Veterinarians are well aware of the various health and welfare challenges of aging dogs, but definitions of aging vary from individual to individual,” they say.