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, following UK pet food guidelines. It helps ensure dogs receive appropriate nutrition without overfeeding.

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

Activity Factors:

• 1.2 — Inactive (senior, sedentary)
• 1.4 — Normal (typical pet dog)
• 1.6 — Active (regular exercise)
• 1.8 — Very active (daily intense exercise)
• 2.0 — Working dog (police, herding, etc.)

3. Importance of Calorie Calculation

Details: Accurate calorie estimation helps maintain optimal weight, prevents obesity-related health issues, and ensures working dogs have adequate energy for their tasks.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Weigh your dog accurately. Select activity level honestly - many owners overestimate their dog's activity. Adjust portions if weight changes occur.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How often should I recalculate my dog's MER?
A: Recalculate whenever weight changes by 10% or more, or if activity level significantly changes (e.g., becomes more sedentary with age).

Q2: Is this suitable for puppies?
A: No, puppies have different nutritional needs. Consult your vet for puppy feeding guidelines.

Q3: What if my dog is overweight?
A: For weight loss, feed 80% of MER for target weight, not current weight. Always consult your vet first.

Q4: Are there breed differences?
A: Some breeds may have slightly different metabolic rates. Giant breeds may need fewer calories per kg than small breeds.

Q5: Should I adjust for neutered status?
A: Yes, neutered dogs typically need 20-30% fewer calories than intact dogs of the same weight.