Dog Metabolic Rate Calculator
Calculate your dog's Resting Energy Requirement (RER) and Daily Caloric Needs.
Caloric Needs
*RER is the energy needed for basic bodily functions. MER is the energy needed for daily activity. Adjust food intake based on body condition.
Understanding Your Dog's Metabolic Rate
Just like humans, dogs require a specific amount of energy to maintain their basic bodily functions and to fuel their daily activities. This energy is measured in calories (kcal). Understanding the difference between Resting Energy Requirement (RER) and Maintenance Energy Requirement (MER) is crucial for preventing obesity or malnutrition in your pet.
What is Resting Energy Requirement (RER)?
RER represents the number of calories your dog burns while at complete rest in a temperature-controlled environment. It covers the energy needed for digestion, respiration, and heart function. The scientific formula used by veterinarians to calculate RER is:
RER = 70 × (Body Weight in kg)0.75
This exponential formula is generally considered the most accurate method for dogs of all sizes, from Chihuahuas to Great Danes.
What is Maintenance Energy Requirement (MER)?
While RER covers basic survival, your dog does more than just sleep. They walk, play, and run. MER takes the RER and multiplies it by a factor that accounts for the dog's life stage, activity level, and neuter status. This is the actual amount of food you should aim to feed your dog daily.
Factors Affecting Metabolic Rate
- Neuter Status: Neutered or spayed dogs generally have a lower metabolic rate than intact dogs due to hormonal changes.
- Age: Puppies require significantly more energy for growth, often 2 to 3 times the RER. Senior dogs often have slower metabolisms.
- Activity Level: Working dogs (herding, hunting, sledding) can burn massive amounts of calories, requiring multipliers up to 4.0 or 5.0.
- Weight Goals: If a dog needs to lose weight, veterinarians often calculate needs based on ideal weight or use a lower multiplier (1.0 x RER) on current weight.
How to Use These Numbers
This calculator provides a starting point. Every dog is an individual. If you feed your dog the calculated MER and they gain weight, reduce the amount by 10%. If they lose weight unintentionally, increase it. Always consult with your veterinarian before making significant changes to your dog's diet, especially for puppies or dogs with health conditions.