How to determine a rescue dog's age?

It seems like a simple question, but I've just done a great deal of Web
searching and come up with almost nothing.

As far as teeth go, between the age of 2 (when they stop growing) and old
age (when they show heavy tartar and wear) there's not a lot to go by.

Does anyone know of any other indicators? Gums? Eyes? Claws?

Thanks!
....G.

Does anyone know of any other indicators? Gums? Eyes? Claws?
Thanks!
...G.


Teeth are one indicator, I go by the whiteness of teeth and the
amount of tartar buildup. Tartar buildup can be decieving if the dog's
recently had a dental but usually an older (5+) dog's teeth will be
browned and stained, worn down and there may be missing or broken teeth.
Of course, there are circumstances where any of these factors might not
apply.
I also guess by age. If the dog still seems puppyish, bouncy and
silly he's probably 3 or under. The more puppyish, of course, the more
likely it is that he's younger.
Other things are the coat. Older dogs tend to shed more, their
coats can be duller or have a coarser texture. But that varies by breed
and care given to the dog. Eyes can be a determinant but my neighbor's
16 year old Husky's eyes are just as bright and clear as my dogs' eyes -
my oldest is 5. You can guess by the whole condition of the dog. How he
walks, is he flexible and quick moving, or plodding? Any trace of
arthritis?
If you consider his whole condition, teeth and all, and estimate his
age with a 1-2 year margin of error, you're close. I don't know how much
expirience you have with dogs but if you feel you can't reliably tell
age, ask any professionals you know : selter workers, vet techs, vet
receptionists, groomers, trainers. IME, vets are frequently wrong at
calling a dog's age and breed but like anything else, that depends on
their level of interest in such things.
That's about all I can suggest.

Good luck,

Yank