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 helps determine the appropriate amount of food to maintain a 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 malnutrition, and ensuring proper nutrition for dogs.

4. Using the Calculator

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

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Q2: What if my dog needs to gain or lose weight?
A: For weight loss, feed 80% of MER. For weight gain, feed 120% of MER, adjusting as needed based on progress.

Q3: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides a good estimate for most dogs, but individual variations may require adjustments based on body condition.

Q4: What about puppies or pregnant dogs?
A: This calculator is for adult dogs. Puppies and pregnant/lactating dogs have different nutritional requirements.

Q5: How do I convert my dog's weight from pounds to kilograms?
A: Divide pounds by 2.205 to get kilograms (e.g., 20 lbs ÷ 2.205 = 9.07 kg).