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I am sure there will be many opinions on this subject and I can't answer with any great knowledge about the depreciation of tents. I suppose it depends on how often you use it, the weather conditions when used, and the way it is stored, as to how long it lasts.

However, I would imagine 5 people and a dog would create quite a lot of condensation if the weather conditions are right. Having said that, many tents are designed and 'domed' in such a way that any water on the inside should run down the inside of the flysheet and drip off at the bottom rather than dripping off all over the occupants, but where there are obstructions such as toggles etc; then the water may drip off those. If there is a lot of condensation this can create a heck of a lot of water.

The internal structure/shape of the flysheet could therefore be an important consideration when you buy your next tent.

It is best to seal seams at least once a year on tents that require the seams to be waterproofed, so your problem could have been leaking seams. I can't imagine the material itself starting to leak even on a 7 year old tent unless it has been damaged. You say it was damp inside from new...this would indicate condensation in my opinion.

I presume you had all mesh vents open...assuming it has vents? These might not look much help but they certainly are, and create a through flow of air thus reducing condensation.

After 7 years I think I would be bored with a tent, and with a growing family it would seem you are due a new one anyway.