Estimate your dog's daily calorie needs and a safe treat budget.
This dog calorie calculator estimates your dog's daily calorie needs using vet-standard RER × activity factor — then applies the 10% rule for a safe daily treat budget.
Dogs and cats should only get about 10% of their daily calories from treats. This calculator helps you estimate a safe amount based on your pet's weight, activity level, and goals.
Our dog calorie calculator uses the standard veterinary formula — RER = 70 × (weight in kg)^0.75 — multiplied by an activity factor (1.2–2.0) and adjusted for your dog's weight goal (lose, maintain, or gain).
Once you know daily calories, applying the 10% rule gives a safe daily treat calorie budget. Enter your dog's weight, activity level, and goal above to see both numbers instantly.
Treats should always stay under 10% of daily calories. To convert your dog's calorie needs into a safe daily treat number, use our dog treat calculator.
Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily calorie intake. The exact number depends on weight, activity level, and the calories per treat. Use the calculator above for a personalized daily limit.
The 10% rule applies to cats too. Most adult cats need 200–300 kcal per day, so only 20–30 kcal should come from treats — typically just a few small pieces.
Veterinarians recommend that treats make up no more than 10% of a pet's daily calories so the rest of the diet stays nutritionally balanced.
You can enter your pet's weight in either lbs or kg. We convert lbs to kilograms (kg = lbs ÷ 2.20462), then calculate Resting Energy Requirement as 70 × (kg)0.75. Example: a 25 lb (≈ 11.3 kg) dog → about 432 kcal RER. We then multiply by an activity factor and adjust for your pet's weight goal.
Explore more free calculators to keep your dog or cat at a healthy weight.
Based on standard veterinary calorie formulas (RER × activity factor).
This tool provides general estimates and is not veterinary advice. Consult your veterinarian for your pet's specific dietary needs.