The science behind Pako.
Pako’s numbers come from published veterinary research, not guesswork. Here’s where they come from, and where they stop.
Energy needs
Resting energy
Every dog’s baseline starts from the standard resting-energy equation: 70 × body weight in kg0.75.
Maintenance factors
That baseline is adjusted following WSAVA and NRC guidance for life stage, neuter status and activity.
Their goal
Targets shift depending on whether the goal is to lose, maintain or gain weight.
Nutrients and meals
Protein
Set above FEDIAF and AAFCO minimums, and raised for growth, senior dogs, working dogs and weight loss, where lean mass is at risk.
Fat
A share of daily calories, trimmed when the goal is weight loss.
Fibre
Scaled to daily calories, in line with typical dietary guidance.
Meals per day
Four for young puppies, three for puppies, and two for adults and seniors.
Why the ordinary days matter
In a fourteen-year study, Labrador littermates were raised side by side. One of each pair was fed 25% less and kept lean.
Median lifespans. Kealy et al., Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 2002
Where the evidence stops
- Body and digestive scans give general guidance, never a diagnosis.
- The health score summarises everyday care. It doesn’t diagnose anything.
- The longevity projection is an estimate based on averages, never a promise.
- Pako AI tells you to contact a vet straight away when something sounds urgent.
- Nothing in Pako replaces your vet.
Sources
Effects of diet restriction on life span and age-related changes in dogsKealy RD, Lawler DF, Ballam JM, et al. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 2002; 220(9): 1315–1320.
Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and CatsNational Research Council. National Academies Press, 2006.
Global Nutrition GuidelinesWSAVA Global Nutrition Committee, World Small Animal Veterinary Association.
Nutritional Guidelines for Complete and Complementary Pet Food for Cats and DogsFEDIAF, the European Pet Food Industry Federation.
Dog Food Nutrient ProfilesAAFCO, the Association of American Feed Control Officials.
