1. What is the Canine MER Equation?

The Maintenance Energy Requirement (MER) equation estimates the daily caloric needs for dogs based on their weight and activity level. It provides a baseline for determining appropriate food portions to maintain healthy weight.

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 (1.2-2.0)

Explanation: The equation accounts for the non-linear relationship between body weight and metabolic rate, with adjustments for different activity levels.

3. Importance of MER Calculation

Details: Accurate MER estimation is crucial for maintaining optimal weight, preventing obesity or undernourishment, and ensuring proper nutrition for dogs of different sizes and lifestyles.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and select the appropriate activity level. For accurate results, weigh your dog regularly and adjust portions as needed.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How do I determine my dog's activity level?
A: Sedentary = mostly indoor, little exercise; Normal = 30-60 min walks daily; Active = 1-2 hours activity; Very Active = 2+ hours; Working = herding, hunting, etc.

Q2: Should I feed exactly the MER amount?
A: MER is a starting point. Adjust based on your dog's body condition, age, and metabolism. Consult your vet for personalized recommendations.

Q3: How does age affect MER?
A: Puppies need 2-3x MER for growth. Seniors may need 10-20% less. Neutered dogs may need 20-30% less than intact dogs.

Q4: What if my dog is overweight or underweight?
A: For weight loss, feed 80% of MER. For weight gain, feed 120-130% of MER. Make changes gradually over weeks.

Q5: How often should I recalculate MER?
A: Recalculate whenever your dog's weight changes by 10% or more, or if their activity level changes significantly.