Prime Age - Page 2

Slamdunc,

If we talk about a prime age time ( from ... to .....) then what do you say?
At what age do you think a Police dog should be pulled out from the streets to spend the rest of its time relaxing.
If it is different from one dog to another, then what signs tell you it  is over for this dog?


Beetree,

I know it is the fact about your dog, but don't you think it is not practical if a dog reaches prime time at this old age? Isn't ir more beneficial for the owner if the prime time is at lesser age? Just asking


Ibrahim

The shorter the useful life span of an animal, the earlier it will reach it's prime in life. For example, horses are generally said to reach their prime at ten to fifteen years ( depending upon discipline they are worked in; such as racing or cutting). A dog, such as a racing dog, would reach their prime a lot earlier than a working dog ( such as a herding dog) . I believe that the more physically demanding but at the same time less mentally challenging an animal's job is, the sooner they will peak in life time. On the other hand, the more mentally demanding (the more problem solving and training required) the longer it will take to peak and the greater the duration of usefulness. That's just what I've noticed with different animals.

Very very interesting observations, never thought of it this way myself, thanks for sharing.

I have always thought of my GSDs as being in their prime at 5 yrs. If there was an age that I could 'fix' my dogs age at this would be it.

All their life stages bring different aspects and are golden in their different ways, but for me that is when everything is at it's peak and I would keep them at that age if I could.

Yes. I agree, very interesting observations Joanro, and I think what you say makes perfect sense to me. 

Ibrahim, I really don't think I have a choice in the maturation of my dog, as to his "prime" timeline. It really is just an observation in how I perceive what he does now, compared to his earlier days. And I think it should be understood that a dog is not necessarily ineffective when they are younger. It is just that when the mental maturity catches up to the physical maturity, then I think we truly know our dogs.

I agree with 3-5 yrs old.

I agree as well, 3 to 5 years of age.  At 6 they slow down a wee bit gain a little more weight and run just a little slower.  That has been my experience over the years.

My GSD was at her best between 5-7 years. She was physically at the top of her game and really had commands down. She was also very mature and settled, while still having a lot of stamina.

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Sorry, I missed your post Slamdunc.