1. What is the Resting Energy Requirement (RER) for Dogs?

Definition: RER is the number of calories a dog needs at rest to maintain basic bodily functions.

Purpose: It helps pet owners and veterinarians determine appropriate food portions for maintaining a healthy weight.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( RER \) — Resting Energy Requirement (kcal/day)
• \( W \) — Dog's weight in kilograms

Explanation: The formula accounts for metabolic scaling where energy needs don't increase linearly with body weight.

3. Importance of RER Calculation

Details: Proper calorie estimation prevents obesity or malnutrition and supports overall canine health.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your dog's weight in kilograms. For pounds, divide by 2.205 to convert to kg.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is RER the same as daily calorie needs?
A: No, RER is the base requirement. Active dogs may need 1.2-5× RER depending on activity level.

Q2: What if my dog is overweight?
A: Use ideal weight rather than current weight for calculation.

Q3: How accurate is this formula?
A: It's a good estimate for most dogs, but individual needs may vary by breed, age, and health status.

Q4: What about puppies?
A: Puppies typically need 2-3× RER for growth.

Q5: How often should I recalculate?
A: Recalculate whenever your dog's weight changes significantly.