Deterministic logic
The same validated inputs produce the same result. AI does not select coefficients, perform the public calculation or change result thresholds.
Evidence and accountability
Calculator methodology
How we turn approved formulas, user inputs and reviewed evidence into transparent dog calculators without presenting estimates as certainty.
Last updated: 27 July 2026 · Owner: The Dogs Mag Editorial Team
What every calculator must disclose
Each published calculator identifies its method version, inputs, output meaning, assumptions, limitations, applicable sources, last review date and review scope. A formula is kept separate from page copy so changing editorial text cannot silently change a result.
Source selection
We prefer manually verified records, official government or veterinary materials, recognized standards and reviewed research. A source must directly support the formula or factual claim for which it is cited. Sources are not added merely to make a page appear authoritative.
If reliable evidence is unavailable, the tool remains in evidence review or states that a value cannot be estimated. Imported records do not publish automatically.
Calculation and testing
Versioned methods
Each formula has a stable version identifier. A material formula change requires a new version and updated review record.
Boundary tests
Unit tests cover expected examples, unit conversion, invalid values and reasonable input boundaries before publication.
Editorial and AI-assisted content
Supporting explanations may be drafted with AI only from an approved evidence packet. Drafts must not introduce formulas, medical conclusions, treatment instructions, prices or breed facts. Structured output is validated and remains unpublished until editorial review. Published pages identify the accountable editorial owner rather than presenting AI as an expert.
Health and safety limits
Calculators provide educational estimates and do not diagnose, prescribe or replace veterinary care. Health-related tools use cautious language, show uncertainty and explain situations requiring individualized advice. High-risk tools require stronger evidence and appropriate professional review before publication.
Read the veterinary disclaimer →Corrections and review
Each calculator displays its review date and method version so a reported issue can be tied to the exact implementation. Material corrections require a code or content review and new tests where calculation behavior changes.
Report a correction →