1. What is Maintenance Energy Requirement (MER)?

The Maintenance Energy Requirement (MER) is the daily calorie intake needed to maintain a dog's current weight, accounting for their activity level and life stage. It's based on metabolic body size (weight^0.75) and adjusted for different activity levels.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the MER equation:

Where:

• \( weight_{kg} \) — Dog's weight in kilograms
• \( activity\_factor \) — Multiplier based on activity level and life stage

Activity Factors:

• 1.0 - Neutered adult (typical pet)
• 1.2 - Intact adult
• 1.4 - Light work
• 1.6 - Moderate work
• 1.8 - Heavy work
• 2.0 - Pregnant/lactating
• 0.8 - Weight loss

3. Importance of MER Calculation

Details: Accurate MER calculation helps prevent obesity (most common nutritional disorder in dogs) and ensures working dogs, puppies, or pregnant/lactating females get adequate calories.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Weigh your dog accurately in kilograms. Select the appropriate activity factor based on your dog's lifestyle and life stage.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How often should I recalculate my dog's MER?
A: Recalculate whenever your dog's weight changes by 10% or their activity level changes significantly.

Q2: What if my dog needs to gain or lose weight?
A: For weight loss, use 80% of MER. For weight gain, use 120-130% of MER, adjusting based on response.

Q3: Are there breed-specific differences?
A: Some breeds (e.g., sled dogs) may have higher requirements, while giant breeds may need slightly less per kg.

Q4: What about puppies?
A: Puppies need 2-3x adult MER until 4 months, then 1.6x until adult size. This calculator is for adult dogs.

Q5: How accurate is this formula?
A: It provides a good starting point but individual dogs may vary by ±20%. Monitor body condition and adjust as needed.