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 portions to maintain healthy 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 metabolic scaling of energy requirements with body size and adjusts 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 your dog's weight in kilograms and select the appropriate activity level. For puppies, pregnant/lactating females, or dogs needing weight change, consult a veterinarian for adjusted calculations.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How do I convert my dog's weight from pounds to kilograms?
A: Divide the weight in pounds by 2.205 to get kilograms (e.g., 20 lbs ÷ 2.205 = 9.07 kg).

Q2: What activity factor should I use for my dog?
A: Sedentary (1.2) for mostly indoor dogs, Normal (1.4) for typical pets, Active (1.6) for regular exercisers, Very Active (1.8) for athletic dogs, Working (2.0) for service or herding dogs.

Q3: Is this calculator suitable for all dog breeds?
A: While generally applicable, some breeds may have different metabolic rates. Giant breeds may need slightly less and toy breeds slightly more than calculated.

Q4: 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.

Q5: Can I use this for weight loss programs?
A: For weight loss, reduce MER by 20-30% and monitor progress. Always consult with a veterinarian for weight management plans.