1. What is Maintenance Energy Requirement (MER)?

The Maintenance Energy Requirement (MER) is the number of calories a dog needs per day to maintain its current weight, accounting for its activity level. It's based on the dog's metabolic body weight (weight^0.75) and activity factor.

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 size and metabolic rate, with different coefficients for different activity levels.

3. Importance of Caloric Calculation

Details: Accurate MER calculation is crucial for maintaining optimal weight, preventing obesity or malnutrition, and ensuring proper nutrition for your dog's activity level.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your 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: How do I determine my dog's activity level?
A: Sedentary = mostly indoor, little exercise; Light = 1-2 short walks/day; Moderate = 1+ hours exercise/day; High = 2+ hours vigorous exercise; Working = working or sporting dogs.

Q2: Is this calculator suitable for puppies?
A: No, puppies have different energy requirements. Puppies typically need 2-3 times the MER of an adult dog of the same weight.

Q3: What if my dog is overweight or underweight?
A: This calculates maintenance calories. Adjust as needed for weight goals. Consult your vet for specific recommendations.

Q4: Are there breed-specific variations?
A: Some breeds may have slightly different metabolic rates. Giant breeds may need fewer calories per kg, while some small breeds may need more.

Q5: How often should I recalculate my dog's MER?
A: Recalculate whenever your dog's weight changes significantly or if their activity level changes substantially.