Score your dog across 7 key categories in under 3 minutes. Based on Dr. Alice Villalobos' Quality of Life Scale — used by vets and pet parents worldwide.
Takes about 3 minutes · Free · No signup required
Score each category below0 of 7 scored
1
Hurt
Is your dog's pain well managed? Watch for limping, restlessness, reluctance to move, or panting at night.
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Pain poorly managedComfortable all day
Score 8–10: Comfortable most of the day. Score 4–7: Occasional discomfort. Score 0–3: Pain appears persistent or poorly controlled.
2
Hunger
Is your dog eating well and interested in food? Does your dog approach their bowl with enthusiasm?
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Not eatingEats with enthusiasm
Reduced appetite is often one of the first signs of decline. Dogs on nutritionally dense food often maintain better appetite as they age.
3
Hydration
Is your dog adequately hydrated? Try the skin tent test — gently pinch the skin at the back of the neck and release.
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Clearly dehydratedWell hydrated
Gum check: press your finger on your dog's gums and release. Colour should return within two seconds. Pale or sticky gums warrant a vet call.
4
Hygiene
Is your dog clean and comfortable? Check coat condition, skin, eyes, ears and dental health.
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Poor hygiene/comfortClean and comfortable
Dogs who are struggling often stop grooming themselves. Mats, skin issues, ear odours and dental discomfort all affect daily quality of life.
5
Happiness
Does your dog express joy and interest in the world? Do they seek connection, sniff on walks, respond to their name?
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Withdrawn, disengagedJoyful and engaged
Joy doesn't have to look the same as it did at age 3. Any continued spark of curiosity or connection, however small, is worth acknowledging.
6
Mobility
Can your dog move comfortably and get up without distress? Consider both willingness and physical ability to move.
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Cannot move freelyMoves with ease
Mobility affects almost every aspect of a dog's life. Anti-inflammatory nutrition, joint support and appropriate movement can make a meaningful difference.
7
More good days than bad
Step back from the daily details. Over the past week, has your dog had more comfortable, positive days — or more difficult ones?
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Mostly difficult daysMostly good days
This question carries real weight. Step back and assess the overall picture — not just today. This one question can cut through a lot of complexity.