1. What is Maintenance Energy Requirement?

The Maintenance Energy Requirement (MER) is the amount of calories a dog needs to maintain its current weight. For senior dogs, this is typically adjusted downward to account for reduced activity levels and metabolic changes.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the MER equation:

Where:

• \( weight_{kg} \) — Dog's weight in kilograms
• \( senior\ factor \) — Adjustment for activity level (1.0-1.2)

Explanation: The equation accounts for the non-linear relationship between body weight and energy requirements, with additional adjustment factors for senior dogs.

3. Importance of Proper Caloric Intake

Details: Proper caloric intake is crucial for maintaining optimal body condition in senior dogs. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, while underfeeding can cause muscle loss and other health issues.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Weigh your dog accurately in kilograms. Select the appropriate senior factor based on activity level (1.0 for typical seniors, higher values for less active dogs).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why use a different factor for senior dogs?
A: Senior dogs typically have lower energy needs due to reduced activity and metabolic changes. The senior factor helps adjust for this.

Q2: How do I know which senior factor to use?
A: Use 1.0 for dogs with normal activity, 1.1 for less active dogs, and 1.2 for very sedentary dogs. Monitor weight and adjust as needed.

Q3: Should I feed exactly the calculated amount?
A: The calculation provides a starting point. Adjust based on your dog's individual needs, body condition, and veterinary advice.

Q4: What if my dog is overweight or underweight?
A: For overweight dogs, feed slightly less than MER for weight loss. For underweight dogs, feed slightly more. Consult your vet for guidance.

Q5: Are there limitations to this calculation?
A: This is a general guideline. Individual dogs may have different needs based on health conditions, medications, or other factors.