Curiosity about age equivalence between dogs and humans has intrigued animal lovers for generations. The traditional rule that each dog year is equivalent to seven human years has always been accepted, but without a solid scientific basis.
However, new research led by the University of California San Diego (UCSD) is challenging this notion and providing a deeper understanding of canine aging.
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UCSD researchers used the science of epigenetics – which studies changes in genetic expression without altering the DNA sequence – to analyze the age of dogs in a more it needs.
By examining epigenetic changes in the DNA of both dogs and humans, scientists were able to establish a new table of equivalence between the ages of the two species.
The study revealed that the old seven-year rule is not accurate. According to the new table created by researchers, a one-year-old dog is actually equivalent to a 31-year-old human.
Furthermore, a five-year-old dog would correspond to a 57-year-old human. These findings provide a new perspective on the age of our canine friends, allowing us to better understand their health and well-being needs as they age.
The study results show that the new age equivalence is more accurate for medium to large dog breeds, such as Labrador retrievers.
However, researchers recognize that smaller breed dogs may show variations and therefore there are a need for more research involving a wider variety of breeds to obtain a more complete picture. complete.
The average life expectancy of dogs, which is around 11.2 years, can now be interpreted differently with the new equivalence table, corresponding to over 69 human years.
Furthermore, the study highlights how certain factors, such as breed size, gender and maintaining a healthy weight, can influence the longevity of dogs.
The study also brings to light notable cases of canine longevity. An example cited is that of Bobi, a dog residing in Portugal, who reached an impressive 31 years of life, being registered by the Guinness Book of World Records.
Research led by UCSD paves the way for a more in-depth, evidence-based understanding of how dogs age relative to humans.
This new perspective not only satisfies the curiosity of animal lovers, but also has practical implications, helping dog owners to provide better, more informed care for their canine companions as they age.
