1. What is the MER Equation?

The Maintenance Energy Requirement (MER) equation estimates the daily calorie needs for dogs based on their weight and activity level. It's widely used in the UK and other countries to determine appropriate feeding amounts.

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 in dogs.

3. Importance of MER Calculation

Details: Accurate MER estimation is crucial for maintaining optimal weight and health in dogs, preventing both obesity and undernourishment.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your dog's weight in kilograms and select the appropriate activity level. The calculator will estimate daily calorie needs for weight maintenance.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What activity level should I choose?
A: Inactive (1.2) for senior or sedentary dogs, Normal (1.4) for typical pets, Active (1.6) for regular exercisers, Very Active (1.8) for athletic dogs, Working (2.0) for working/performance dogs.

Q2: 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.

Q3: Is this suitable for puppies?
A: Puppies have higher energy needs - consult your vet for appropriate puppy feeding guidelines.

Q4: What about overweight dogs?
A: For weight loss, feed 80-90% of MER and consult your vet for a tailored weight loss plan.

Q5: Does this account for breed differences?
A: The equation provides a general estimate. Some breeds may have slightly different metabolic rates.