1. What is RER and MER?

RER (Resting Energy Requirement) is the number of calories a dog needs at complete rest in a thermoneutral environment. MER (Maintenance Energy Requirement) is the actual number of calories needed based on activity level and life stage.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses these equations:

Where:

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

Explanation: The equation accounts for metabolic scaling where larger animals need relatively fewer calories per kilogram than smaller animals.

3. Importance of Calorie Calculation

Details: Accurate calorie estimation is crucial for maintaining healthy weight, preventing obesity, and ensuring proper nutrition for working dogs or growing puppies.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and select appropriate activity level. For weight loss, use 80% of MER. For weight gain, use 120% of MER.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How do I convert my dog's weight from pounds to kg?
A: Divide pounds by 2.205 to get kilograms (e.g., 50 lbs ÷ 2.205 = 22.7 kg).

Q2: What if my dog is overweight?
A: Use ideal weight, not current weight, for calculations when determining weight loss calories.

Q3: How often should I recalculate my dog's needs?
A: Recalculate after any significant weight change (≥10%) or life stage change.

Q4: Are there exceptions to these formulas?
A: Yes, some breeds may have different metabolic rates. Consult your vet for very small (<2kg) or giant breed dogs.

Q5: Why do puppies need more calories?
A: Puppies have higher energy needs for growth and development, reflected in the higher activity factors.