1. What is MER?

The Maintenance Energy Requirement (MER) estimates the daily caloric needs of a dog to maintain its current weight, accounting for activity level and life stage factors. It's based on the Resting Energy Requirement (RER) multiplied by an appropriate factor.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses two equations:

Where:

• \( RER \) — Resting Energy Requirement (kcal/day)
• \( MER \) — Maintenance Energy Requirement (kcal/day)
• \( factor \) — Life stage/activity multiplier (1.6 for typical adult neutered dog)

3. Importance of MER Calculation

Details: Accurate MER estimation is crucial for maintaining optimal body condition, preventing obesity, and ensuring proper nutrition for different life stages and activity levels.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and select the appropriate life stage/activity level. For ranges, the calculator uses the midpoint value.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why are there different factors?
A: Different life stages and activity levels significantly impact energy needs. Puppies, pregnant/lactating dogs, and working dogs need more calories.

Q2: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides a good starting point but individual needs may vary by ±20%. Regular weight monitoring is recommended.

Q3: What if my dog is overweight?
A: Use the weight loss factor (1.8-2.0) but consult your vet for a tailored weight loss plan.

Q4: Can I use this for puppies?
A: Puppies have different needs - use puppy-specific formulas or consult your vet.

Q5: How often should I recalculate MER?
A: Recalculate with significant weight changes, life stage transitions, or activity level changes.