| Yours is not a question for which there is a simple straightforward answer. A dog's RER (resting energy requirement) is given by the equation RER(kcal)= 30(BW(kg) + 70. Kcal=kilocalories, BW(kg)=
body weight in kilograms. (This equation is adequate for dogs between 2 and 45kg.) For a working dog, this value has to be multiplied by a factor of 2-8 depending on the intensity of the dog's exercise. If you know the energy density fo the food being offered you can thus determine the amount to be fed. Now practically speaking, obtain a high quality dog food, refer to the guidelines on the bag for a starting point, weigh the dogs weekly, and adjust their rations to keep them just a bit on the lean side. For heavy work dogs should be fed a highly energy dense, that is high fat, diet. These particular dogs should be enjoying generous portions meat from the officers' mess.
|
