Scientists say there’s a better way to turn dog years into human years
Some scientists have converted human DNA methylation to estimate age or even predict life expectancy. Other animals, such as dogs, undergo DNA methylation. As dogs age, a common problem is hip dysplasia. This can lead to the need to use a wheelchair for paralyzed dogs. It is also known as paralyzed dog wheels or dog cart for paralyzed dogs.
Surely you have heard that each human year is equivalent to seven dog years. Is there any science behind this? Statistically, small dogs live longer than large dogs. So how could an accurate calculation be?
Most accurate way to convert human years to dog years
The researchers now have a more precise estimate that is supported by human science. There is relatively new research on aging regarding methyl groups on specific DNA sequences. This can track the biological age of humans and how it can be affected by disease, poor lifestyle choices, and genetics.
DNA Methylation Patterns in Labrador Retrievers
A study on DNA methylation patterns was conducted in 104 Labrador Retrievers from 4 to 16 years of age. At least in this breed of dog there was similarity to humans and age-related DNA methylation of certain genomic regions with high mutation rates. Similarities were observed between young dogs and young humans and also between older dogs and older humans.
The research team used the rate of methylation changes in the dogs to match the human epigenetic clock. The results were a more complex conversion than previously used. The old formula was simply to take your dog’s age and multiply it by 7. Now the researchers say you should multiply your dog’s age by the natural logarithm multiplied by 16, and then add that number to 31.
Below are the formulas for both:
ancient formula
Human age = 7 (your dog’s age)
New formula
Human age = 16 ln (your dog’s age) +31
Ln= natural logarithm
The new formula means that a Labrador Retriever at 12 years old would be comparable to a human at 70 years old, which is the average life expectancy for a human. Dogs age faster as puppies than children, but then slow down according to the test. There is a Canine Aging Project open to all breeds, ages and sizes.
The study wants to see what interesting results can be seen in life span between different breeds of dogs.