1. What is the Dog Quality of Life Calculator?

The Dog Quality of Life Calculator helps pet owners objectively assess their dog's overall wellbeing by evaluating four key areas: mobility, happiness, hygiene, and whether the dog has more good days than bad.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses a simple equation:

Where:

• Each category is scored from 0-10 points
• Maximum possible score is 40 points
• Higher scores indicate better quality of life

Explanation: This scoring system helps quantify subjective observations about your dog's daily life and wellbeing.

3. Importance of Quality of Life Assessment

Details: Regular quality of life assessments help pet owners make informed decisions about their dog's care, especially for senior dogs or those with chronic conditions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Score each category honestly based on your dog's recent behavior and condition. Scores should reflect typical days, not best or worst days.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What do the scores mean?
A: 35-40=Excellent, 25-34=Good, 15-24=Fair, Below 15=Poor quality of life that may need intervention.

Q2: How often should I assess my dog's quality of life?
A: Monthly for healthy dogs, weekly for senior dogs or those with health issues.

Q3: What factors affect mobility score?
A: Ability to move comfortably, climb stairs, get up/down, and walk without pain.

Q4: How is happiness measured?
A: Interest in activities, interaction with family, tail wagging, and general enthusiasm.

Q5: When should I consult my vet about low scores?
A: If scores are consistently below 20, or if any single category scores below 3.