Horse Age and Lifespan Facts

Just like people, thanks to a better understanding of health and medical care, horses are living longer than ever. Not that long ago, 25 years of age was considered old for a horse. Now, the life expectancy of horses has increased, largely because we take better care of them. Most of us would like our equine companions to stay with us for as long as possible.

How Long Do Horses Live?

What is the average lifespan of a horse? With better veterinary care, horses are living longer than ever, just as better health care extends the life of humans. You can expect a healthy horse to live for over 25 years. A horse living into its 30s is not uncommon any more.

What Age is the Oldest Horse?

How old is the oldest horse? How about the oldest pony or donkey? Here is a look at the ages of some of the world's longest-lived equines.

Signs of Aging in Horses

If you own a mature horse, it's wise to watch it for signs of aging, so you'll know when to start treating it as a senior citizen. Not all horses age at the same rate and not all will require the same care. Here are the signs of aging you'll need to watch for so you can provide your horse with the very best.

Horse Age Compared to Human Age

Several charts and calculators have been created in an attempt to compare a horse to human age. That's difficult to do, as the maturation and aging rate of horses and humans is very different. However, just for fun, here is one example of a horse to human age comparison chart and an explanation of why comparisons are not precise.

Telling a Horse's Age By Its Teeth

If you don't know your horse's date of birth, one way tell its age is by its teeth. Telling a horse's age by looking at its teeth is not exact, but it will tell you the approximate age. Horses' teeth erupt through the surface of the gum almost all its life, until the tooth itself is completely worn down.

How Old Should Your First Horse Be?

How old should your horse be when you buy it? What is the best age for a beginner's horses? Should you buy a young or older horse? Find the answers to your questions about the age of your first horse.