1. What is the Puppy Calorie Equation?

The Puppy Calorie Equation calculates the Maintenance Energy Requirement (MER) for growing puppies. It accounts for their higher energy needs during growth compared to adult dogs.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Puppy Calorie Equation:

Where:

• \( MER \) — Maintenance Energy Requirement (kcal/day)
• \( W \) — Weight in kilograms (kg)
• 3 — Growth factor for puppies

Explanation: The equation accounts for the metabolic rate scaling with body weight and the additional energy needs for growth in puppies.

3. Importance of Calorie Calculation

Details: Accurate calorie estimation is crucial for proper puppy growth and development, preventing both undernutrition and obesity.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the puppy's current weight in kilograms. The weight must be a positive number.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is the factor 3 used for puppies?
A: Puppies have higher energy needs (2-3 times adult maintenance) due to growth requirements.

Q2: How often should I recalculate my puppy's needs?
A: Recalculate monthly as puppies grow rapidly and their weight changes significantly.

Q3: Is this suitable for all puppy breeds?
A: This provides a general estimate. Large breed puppies may need adjusted calculations to prevent rapid growth.

Q4: When should I switch to adult calculations?
A: Typically after 12 months for small breeds, 18-24 months for large breeds.

Q5: Should I feed exactly the calculated amount?
A: Use this as a starting point and adjust based on your puppy's body condition and activity level.