Obesity Management Calculation Sheet

ArticleLast Updated April 20072 min readPeer Reviewed

Obesity Management Calculation Sheet (download the PDF by clicking the icon above)

Related Article: Obesity Management in Dogs

1. Calculate resting energy requirement (RER)RER = 70(BWkg 0.75) fi 70( _____ kg 0.75) = ______ kcal/d

2. Calculate maintenance energy requirement (MER)Adult dogsMER (intact adult): 1.8 × RER = _______ kcal/dMER (neutered adult): 1.6 × RER = _______ kcal/d

3. Calculate obesity management energy requirement (OM)Adult dogs OM: 60%(MER) = _______ kcal/d*

4. Choose a weight loss dietName of dry diet _______________________ ____ kcal/cup = _______ cup(s)/day (divide into 2 meals)Name of canned diet ____________________ ____ kcal/can = _______ can(s)/day (divide into 2 meals)

5. Treats (limit to < 10% of total kcal intake/d)Name of treat _____________________ _____ kcal/treat = treats allowed/day

6. Rate of weight loss1% of body weight per week: _____ pounds to lose per week (Please weigh your pet once every 2 weeks.)

7. Exercise is strongly encouraged

  • The most successful weight loss programs combine caloric restriction with exercise.

  • Start out any exercise program for your pet slowly.

8. How can you tell when the pet has achieved an optimal weight?

  • You should be able to feel ribs but not see them when pet is standing.

  • Pet should have an hourglass figure when viewed from top.<sup†sup>

  • Your veterinarian can also help you determine when your pet has reached an optimal weight.

<sup* Keep in mind that these are starting levels for kilocalorie intake. They may require modification throughout weight loss program. Some pets may require fewer kilocalories than calculated here.sup>

<sup† If pet has thick hair coat, it is important to rely on hands-on assessment of pet, not visual assessment.sup>