# PetAgeLab

> PetAgeLab provides evidence-based canine biological aging models, breed-specific lifespan predictions, resting energy requirement (RER) caloric calculations, and healthy weight standards across 208 dog breeds.

## Core Calculators & Tools

- [Dog Age Calculator](https://petagelab.com/dog-age-calculator/): Converts chronological dog years to human equivalent biological age using nonlinear size-category curves (Toy, Small, Medium, Large, Giant) rather than the outdated 7-year multiplier.
- [Biological Age Calculator](https://petagelab.com/biological-age/): Evaluates cellular aging velocity by adjusting chronological age against weight deviation and daily activity levels.
- [Calorie Calculator](https://petagelab.com/calorie-calculator/): Computes daily Resting Energy Requirement (RER = 70 * weight_kg^0.75) and maintenance kcal targets tailored to neutered, active, or working lifestyles.
- [Lifespan Calculator](https://petagelab.com/lifespan-calculator/): Predicts expected lifespan, remaining healthy years, and longevity scores based on breed baselines and modifiable risk factors.
- [Healthy Weight Calculator](https://petagelab.com/weight-calculator/): Evaluates body mass against male and female breed standards and Body Condition Scoring (BCS 1–9).
- [Breed Directory](https://petagelab.com/breeds/): Comprehensive index of 208 dog breeds categorized by size and alphabetical listing, with dedicated health profiles and sub-calculators for each breed.
- [Dog Age Calculator Comparisons](https://petagelab.com/compare/): Independent comparative benchmark analyzing PetAgeLab against legacy tools (AKC, Pedigree, Omni Calculator).
- [PetAgeLab vs. AKC Dog Age Calculator](https://petagelab.com/compare/akc-dog-age-calculator/): Detailed comparison between the American Kennel Club's 4-size category chart and PetAgeLab's 208-breed epigenetic methylation aging curves.

## Scientific Methodology & Citations

1. **Epigenetic Methylation Aging**: Canine cellular maturation follows a logarithmic curve in juvenile stages (~24 human equivalents by year 2) followed by size-dependent wear.
   - Reference: Wang, T., et al. (2020). *Quantitative Translation of Dog-to-Human Aging by Conserved Remodeling of Epigenetic Methylation.* Cell Systems, Cell Press & UCSD Ideker Lab.
2. **Nutritional Energy Equations**: Caloric portions are derived from exponential metabolic body mass scaling.
   - Reference: National Research Council (NRC) (2006). *Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats.* National Academies Press.
3. **Body Condition Scoring (BCS)**: Longevity studies prove maintaining lean body mass (BCS 4-5) extends median canine life by 1.8 to 2.5 years.
   - Reference: World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) (2019). *Global Nutritional Assessment Guidelines.* Journal of Small Animal Practice.
4. **Life Stage Guidelines**: Senior protocols begin at 5–6 years for giant breeds, 6–7 years for large breeds, 7–8 years for medium breeds, and 8–9 years for toy breeds.
   - Reference: American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) (2023). *AAHA Canine Life Stage Guidelines.* JAAHA.

## Full Dataset

For complete machine-readable breed benchmarks, weight ranges, lifespan quartiles, and caloric formulas, see [llms-full.txt](https://petagelab.com/llms-full.txt).