How can you tell how old a dog or puppy is by examing it?

Question

We just got a free Standard Dashaund almost two months ago, and the previous owners say that he is only 1 year and 6 months old, but his behavior portrays him as much older? Other than taking him to the Vet, is there another way to tell?

Answer 1

A 1 & 1/2 year old dog should have nice clean white teeth, with very little tartar buildup. An older dog will show some wearing of the teeth, and have brownish tartar buildup starting along the gumline. This is one of the best ways to tell. Many dogs over 5 begin to get gray hairs on the muzzle.

Answer 2

The only way you can tell is to either believe them or take it to the vet. You could tell by its teeth. But I am not an expert on dog teeth so your best bet is to take it to the vet anyway to check for worms, and other things that the previous owner may have neglected to do. Dachsunds are very prone to back problems, jumping off furniture should be a no no.

Answer 3

A vet looks at his teeth, and this is kind of complicated..so I would just take it to a vet..but if you could just look at it..if it has no gray hairs definately younger that 5 years..if it doesn't have baby teeth that older than 1 or 2. It's kind of hard to get an exact age on your own.

Answer 4

I think only the vet can tell, but keep in mind some dogs are just more mature than others.

Answer 5

Not really. The vet will probably check out his teeth, to see if he has puppy teeth or adult teeth, and if the adult teeth are all present. That's usually how they can "guestimate" the dog's age.

Answer 6

i dont think so i think the only a vet can tell

Answer 7

Try sticking your finger up his butt...