1. What is the Maintenance Energy Requirement (MER)?

The Maintenance Energy Requirement (MER) is the number of calories a dog needs per day to maintain its current weight. It accounts for the dog's metabolic rate and activity level.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the MER equation:

Where:

• \( weight_{kg} \) — Dog's weight in kilograms
• \( factor \) — Activity level multiplier (see table below)

Common Activity Factors:

• 1.0 - Neutered adult (normal activity)
• 1.6 - Intact adult
• 1.8 - Weight loss program
• 2.0 - Weight gain program
• 3.0 - Active/working dogs
• 3.5 - Puppies (0-4 months)
• 2.5 - Puppies (4-12 months)

3. Importance of Calorie Calculation

Details: Proper calorie intake is essential for maintaining a healthy weight in dogs. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, while underfeeding can cause malnutrition and health issues.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Weigh your dog accurately in kilograms. Select the appropriate activity factor based on your dog's life stage and activity level. Monitor your dog's weight and adjust as needed.

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 more than 10% or if their activity level changes significantly.

Q2: What if my dog is overweight or underweight?
A: Use the weight loss (1.8) or weight gain (2.0) factors and consult your veterinarian for a tailored plan.

Q3: Can I use this for all dog breeds?
A: Yes, but some breeds may have unique metabolic needs. Giant breeds and toy breeds may need adjustments.

Q4: How do I convert my dog's weight from pounds to kilograms?
A: Divide pounds by 2.205 to get kilograms (e.g., 20 lbs ÷ 2.205 = 9.07 kg).

Q5: Should I feed exactly the calculated amount?
A: Use this as a starting point. Monitor your dog's weight and adjust as needed based on their individual metabolism and activity.