Old age comes to all humans and animals. Just as science has progressed over the years to improve the lifespan and quality of life for humans, it has now extended its research to our four-legged friends as well. What can a responsible owner do to help their dog age gracefully?
Dog Aging: A Study Explains What Keeps Them Healthy
Diet certainly has a significant impact on our dogs' health. The dog's environment, where it sleeps, the care it receives when ill, the amount of exercise it receives, and, most importantly, socialization, all influence its health.
Indeed, a study published in the journal Evolution Medicine & Public Health, conducted as part of the Dog Aging Project, highlights socialization as a key factor for a peaceful old age in dogs. The study used an extensive sample from 2020, including data on 21,410 dogs participating in the Dog Aging Project. The survey, answered by the owners, consisted of 33 questions. The dogs were all over 2 years old, with an even split between males and females, purebred and mixedbreed.
The questions covered physical activity, environment, dog behavior, diet, medications taken, overall health of the animal, and personal information about the owners (such as job, income, etc.).
Factors That Help Dogs Age Well
Researchers identified five factors associated with a dog's health and longevity: neighborhood, family income, presence of children, presence of other animals, and the age of the owner.
The study found that dogs who lived with other animals or frequently interacted with their peers during daily activities lived better and longer. Previous studies have already shown that running outdoors with their peers makes dogs less stressed, less anxious, and improves their quality of life.
Just like humans, dogs need socialization and physical activity. A proper lifestyle for both us and them is what they need to enjoy a long and peaceful old age.
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