Why ×7 is Wrong

Dogs don’t age linearly. A 1-year-old dog is roughly a 15-year-old human (sexually mature, fully grown); by 2 they’re ~24. After that, each dog year adds roughly 4–7 human years depending on size — small breeds age slower and often live 14–16 years, giant breeds age fastest and average 8–10.

The Size Paradox

Unusually among mammals, bigger dogs live shorter lives — a great dane ages almost twice as fast as a chihuahua in later years. Researchers link it to accelerated growth and higher IGF-1 levels.

Life Stages

Puppy (0–1), adolescent (1–2), adult (2–7), senior (7+ for large breeds, 9+ for small). Senior dogs benefit from twice-yearly vet checks — a year for a dog is like 5+ years of human health change.

Frequently Asked Questions

How old is my dog in human years?

A 1-year-old dog is about 15 human years, 2 years is about 24, then each additional year adds 4–7 human years depending on the dog's size.

Is the times-7 rule accurate?

No. Dogs mature very quickly in their first two years, then ageing depends heavily on size — the flat multiplier misrepresents both ends of a dog's life.

When is a dog considered senior?

Around 7 years for large breeds and 9–10 for small breeds. Senior dogs benefit from six-monthly vet checks.