RER Calculator for Dogs
Calculate your dog's Resting Energy Requirement — the metabolic baseline all canine feeding calculations are built on.
What Is the RER Calculator for Dogs?
Calculate your dog's Resting Energy Requirement — the metabolic baseline all canine feeding calculations are built on.
RER is the foundation of all accurate dog feeding calculations. It tells you how many calories your dog burns at complete rest — their metabolic floor. Every other energy calculation (for activity, pregnancy, growth) is a multiplier applied to this number.
Every result is based on published veterinary research and breed-size-specific growth data — not generic averages. This tool is completely free, works instantly in your browser, and requires no account or sign-up.
How to Use This Calculator
Fill in the required fields above — typically your dog's weight, age, or breed size. Every field has a clear label and hint.
Press the calculate button to get your instant result. No page reload, no account needed, no waiting.
Your result appears immediately below the calculator. It includes the primary answer plus additional context where relevant.
Share, print, or save your result. Always discuss health-related results with your veterinarian before making decisions.
How It Works
RER (Resting Energy Requirement) = 70 × (body weight in kg)^0.75. This allometric formula was derived from metabolic studies across many species and is the veterinary standard endorsed by WSAVA, AAFCO, and NRC.
The exponent 0.75 reflects the fact that metabolic rate scales with body surface area rather than body weight directly — larger animals have proportionally lower metabolic rates per kilogram than smaller animals. This is why a 40kg dog does not simply need twice the calories of a 20kg dog.
RER itself is not the feeding target — it is the baseline. Multiply by 1.0 for a neutered adult at rest. Multiply by 1.6 for a very active or working dog. Multiply by 3.0 for a lactating mother.
Veterinary Research
Every formula is derived from peer-reviewed veterinary studies and clinical guidelines, not guesswork or generic rules.
Instant Results
No page reload, no waiting, no account needed. Enter your details and your result appears immediately.
100% Private
All calculations happen in your browser. Nothing you enter is ever stored on our servers or shared with anyone.
Always Free
Every calculator on Doggy Calculators is and will always be completely free to use — no premium tier, no catch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources & References
This calculator's formulas are based on the following peer-reviewed and authoritative veterinary sources:
- WSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines — RER formula, caloric requirements, and feeding protocols
- Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) — Nutritional standards for complete and balanced dog food
- National Research Council u2014 Nutrient Requirements of Dogs — Scientific basis for canine dietary requirements
⚠️ These calculators are reference tools only. Always consult a licensed veterinarian before administering medication or making medical decisions.