How it's calculated
RER = 70 × kg^0.75, DER = RER × activity factor
kg = body weight, RER = resting energy requirement (kcal/day), activity factor = 1.2–2.0, DER = daily energy requirement. Adjustments: ×0.85 if spayed/neutered, ×0.9 senior, RER×2.0 puppy; goal ×0.8 (loss) or ×1.2 (gain).
Common questions
How many calories does my dog need?
Start from RER = 70 times weight in kg to the 0.75 power, then multiply by an activity factor of roughly 1.2 to 1.8.
Should a spayed dog eat less?
Yes. Spayed and neutered dogs have a lower energy need, so the calculator applies a smaller factor to avoid weight gain.