Dog Information
Calorie Calculation Results
Calculation Formulas
Example: 10 kg adult neutered dog → RER = 70 × (10^0.75) ≈ 394 kcal; MER = 394 × 1.6 ≈ 630 kcal; weight loss at 0.8 → 504 kcal/day; if food = 350 kcal/cup → 504/350 ≈ 1.44 cups/day.
| Calculation | Value | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Calories | 0 | Total calories per day |
| Per Meal Calories | 0 | Calories per meal |
Understanding Dog Calorie Calculations
Our dog calorie calculator helps you estimate the daily caloric needs for your canine companion. This tool is perfect for pet owners who want to ensure their dog maintains a healthy weight and receives proper nutrition.
How It Works
The calculator uses a scientific approach based on Resting Energy Requirement (RER) and Maintenance Energy Requirement (MER) formulas:
RER (Resting Energy Requirement) represents the calories your dog needs at complete rest. The formula is:
RER = 70 × (weight in kg ^ 0.75)
MER (Maintenance Energy Requirement) adjusts RER based on your dog's activity level, age, and neuter status:
MER = RER × activity factor
Finally, we adjust for your dog's weight goal (loss, maintenance, or gain):
Adjusted Calories = MER × goal multiplier
For example, a 10 kg adult neutered dog with normal activity would have:
RER = 70 × (10^0.75) ≈ 394 kcal
MER = 394 × 1.6 ≈ 630 kcal
For weight loss (0.8 multiplier): 630 × 0.8 = 504 kcal/day
Factors That Affect Caloric Needs
Several factors influence your dog's calorie requirements:
- Age: Puppies need more calories for growth, while seniors may need fewer
- Activity Level: Active and working dogs require significantly more calories
- Neuter Status: Neutered dogs typically have lower energy requirements
- Breed & Size: Larger breeds have different metabolic rates than smaller breeds
- Health Conditions: Certain medical conditions can affect calorie needs
This canine calorie calculator provides estimates based on standard formulas. Actual needs may vary based on individual metabolism, health status, and environmental factors. For precise dietary planning, especially for dogs with medical conditions, consult your veterinarian.