1. What is the MER for Weight Loss?

The Maintenance Energy Requirement (MER) for weight loss is the daily caloric intake needed for a dog to safely lose weight. It's calculated as 80% of the standard MER for the dog's ideal weight.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following equation:

Where:

• \( ideal\_weight\_kg \) — The dog's target ideal weight in kilograms
• 0.75 — The metabolic exponent for dogs
• 0.8 — The reduction factor for weight loss (80% of maintenance)

Explanation: The equation accounts for the non-linear relationship between body weight and metabolic rate in dogs, with an adjustment for safe weight loss.

3. Importance of Proper Caloric Intake

Details: Proper caloric restriction is essential for safe, effective weight loss in dogs. Too rapid weight loss can cause health problems, while too little restriction may not achieve results.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the dog's ideal weight in kilograms (1 kg = 2.2 lbs). The calculator will determine the appropriate daily caloric intake for weight loss.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How fast should a dog lose weight?
A: Healthy weight loss is typically 1-2% of body weight per week. More rapid loss can be dangerous.

Q2: Should I adjust food based on activity level?
A: Yes, very active dogs may need slightly more calories, while sedentary dogs may need less. Monitor weight and adjust as needed.

Q3: What if my dog isn't losing weight on this amount?
A: Consult your veterinarian. They may recommend further reducing calories by 10% or checking for medical issues.

Q4: Can I use this for puppies?
A: No, puppies have different nutritional needs. Always consult a vet for growing animals.

Q5: How often should I recalculate?
A: Re-evaluate every 2-4 weeks as weight changes, or if activity level changes significantly.