How the calorie calculation works
This calculator uses the formula recommended by the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) and the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA).
Step 1 — Resting Energy Requirement (RER)
RER is the calories your dog burns at complete rest — just to keep organs running. The formula:
RER = 70 × (body weight in kg)0.75
The power function scales accurately across the wide weight range of dogs, because smaller dogs burn more calories per kg than larger dogs.
Step 2 — Maintenance Energy Requirement (MER)
MER is the realistic daily requirement. It multiplies RER by a factor for life stage, activity, and reproductive status.
| Life stage / status | Typical MER multiplier |
|---|
| Puppy under 4 months | 3.0 × RER |
| Puppy 4–12 months | 2.0 × RER |
| Intact adult | 1.8 × RER |
| Neutered adult | 1.6 × RER |
| Sedentary or weight-loss | 1.0 × RER |
| Active / working dog | 2.0–5.0 × RER |
| Senior (low activity) | 1.2–1.4 × RER |
ImportantThese are starting estimates. Individual metabolism varies by 20–30%. Re-check body condition every 2 weeks and adjust portions accordingly.
How to use the result
- Find the calories-per-cup figure on your dog food label.
- Divide your dog's daily calorie target by that number — that's the daily portion.
- Remember that treats and table food count. Treats should not exceed 10% of daily calories.
- Always provide fresh water alongside food.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my food bag say a different amount?
Pet food labels use generous estimates for the "average" intact, active dog. Most house pets are neutered and less active, so following the bag often leads to weight gain.
Should I feed once or twice a day?
Adult dogs do best with two meals daily, splitting the calorie target. Puppies under 6 months need three to four meals.
How quickly should an overweight dog lose weight?
A safe rate is 1–2% of body weight per week. Faster loss risks muscle wasting and nutritional deficiencies.
Do I need to change calories for cold weather?
Indoor dogs do not. Outdoor working dogs in cold climates may need 10–30% more calories in winter.
Is this suitable for pregnant or lactating dogs?
No. Pregnant dogs in the last trimester and lactating dogs have dramatically higher needs (up to 4× RER). These cases need vet supervision.