1. What is RER and MER?

RER (Resting Energy Requirement) is the number of calories a dog needs at complete rest, while MER (Maintenance Energy Requirement) accounts for activity level and life stage factors. These values help determine appropriate food portions for optimal health.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following equations:

Where:

• \( weight\_kg \) — Dog's weight in kilograms
• \( factor \) — Multiplier based on activity level and life stage

Explanation: The equation accounts for the non-linear relationship between body weight and metabolic rate in dogs.

3. Importance of Calorie Calculation

Details: Proper calorie calculation helps prevent obesity or malnutrition, supports growth in puppies, and meets increased demands during pregnancy/lactation or working dogs.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Weigh your dog accurately in kilograms. Select the appropriate factor based on your dog's activity level and life stage. For obese dogs, use ideal weight rather than current weight.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How often should I recalculate my dog's calorie needs?
A: Recalculate whenever your dog's weight changes by 10% or more, or if their activity level/life stage changes significantly.

Q2: What if my dog is overweight?
A: For weight loss, feed 80-90% of the RER (not MER) and consult your veterinarian for a weight loss plan.

Q3: Are there breed-specific considerations?
A: Some breeds may have higher or lower metabolic rates. Giant breeds may need fewer calories per kg than small breeds.

Q4: How accurate are these calculations?
A: They provide estimates. Individual needs may vary by ±20% based on metabolism, environment, and health status.

Q5: Should I adjust for my dog's age?
A: Senior dogs (over 7 years) may need 10-20% fewer calories than adult dogs of the same weight due to decreased activity.