1. What is the 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 intake to maintain current body 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 body condition, preventing obesity or underweight conditions, and ensuring proper nutrition.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the dog's weight in kilograms and select the appropriate activity level. For weight loss, reduce calories by 10-20% of MER; for weight gain, increase by 10-20%.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What if my dog is overweight or underweight?
A: The MER provides maintenance calories. Adjust up or down by 10-20% for weight changes, monitoring progress and consulting your vet.

Q2: How do I determine my dog's activity level?
A: Sedentary = mostly indoor; Normal = regular walks; Active = daily vigorous exercise; Very Active = multiple exercise sessions; Working = herding, hunting, etc.

Q3: Does this work for puppies?
A: Puppies have higher energy needs. Use specific puppy formulas or consult your vet for growing dogs.

Q4: What about senior dogs?
A: Senior dogs may need fewer calories. Consider using the lower end of activity factors for older, less active dogs.

Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides a good estimate, but individual variations exist. Monitor your dog's body condition and adjust as needed.