Kidney Disease in Dogs: Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment

Your furry companion’s kidneys are essential organs that help maintain overall health by filtering waste, balancing fluids, and regulating blood pressure. However, when kidney function declines, it can lead to severe health complications. Understanding kidney disease in dogs—its signs, causes, and treatment options—can help pet parents take timely action and improve their pet’s quality of life.

What Is Kidney Disease in Dogs?

Kidney disease in dogs occurs when the kidneys can no longer filter waste products efficiently, leading to a buildup of toxins in the bloodstream. It is categorized into two types:

• Acute Kidney Disease: Develops suddenly, often due to poisoning, infections, or trauma. It can be life-threatening but is sometimes reversible with prompt treatment.
• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Progresses over months or years, usually due to aging, genetic predisposition, long-term health conditions or an inappropriate diet such as a diet excessively high in phosphorus consumed for a lengthy period. CKD is irreversible but depending on the stage of diagnosis its progression can be slowed.

While acute kidney failure requires immediate medical intervention, chronic kidney disease demands long-term management to slow its progression.

Causes of Kidney Disease in Dogs

Several factors can contribute to kidney problems in dogs, including:

• Toxins: Ingesting harmful substances such as antifreeze, household chemicals, or toxic plants (e.g., lilies, grapes, and raisins).
• Infections: Bacterial infections like leptospirosis can damage kidney tissues.
• Genetics: Some dog breeds, including Cocker Spaniels and Bull Terriers, are more prone to kidney disease.
• Aging: Older pets often experience gradual kidney decline as part of the aging process.
• Chronic conditions: High blood pressure and diabetes can increase the risk of kidney problems in dogs.
• Nutrition: Feeding a diet over an extended period of time that is predominantly high in phosphorus content (particularly foods or commercial diets rich in meat by-products containing bones and cartilage is often the cause of excessive dietary phosphorus intake.)

By being aware of these potential causes, pet parents can take steps to minimize risks and protect their pet’s kidney health.

Kidney Disease in Dogs: Signs and Symptoms

Early detection is crucial in managing kidney disease in dogs effectively. However, the initial signs can be subtle and easy to miss. Common kidney disease in dogs symptoms symptoms include:

• Increased thirst and urination
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Vomiting and diarrhoea
• Lethargy
• Bad breath with a chemical-like odor (urea odour)

Since symptoms often appear once kidney function is significantly impaired, regular veterinary checkups and routine bloodwork are essential for early diagnosis.

Stages of Chronic Kidney Disease in Dogs

Veterinarians use the International Renal Interest Society (IRIS) scale to stage kidney disease in dogs, ranging from Stage 1 (mild) to Stage 4 (severe). The staging helps determine the severity of kidney dysfunction and guides treatment decisions.

In early stages, lifestyle and dietary changes can significantly slow disease progression, while advanced stages may require intensive medical intervention.

Kidney Disease in Dogs Treatment Options

The treatment for kidney disease in dogs depends on the severity and underlying cause. Some effective management strategies include:

• Dietary Adjustments: Specialized commercial renal diets with controlled phosphorus, high-quality protein, and omega-3 fatty acids help reduce kidney workload.
• Hydration Support: Increasing water intake through wet food or subcutaneous fluid therapy can prevent dehydration.
• Medications: Blood pressure medications, phosphate binders, and appetite stimulants may be prescribed to manage symptoms.
• Regular Monitoring: Routine blood tests and urinalysis help track disease progression and adjust treatment as needed.

For acute kidney disease, hospitalization with intravenous fluids may be necessary. However, for CKD, long-term management focuses on slowing progression and maintaining a good quality of life.

When to Call Your Vet

Early intervention can make a significant difference in managing kidney problems in dogs. If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, consult your veterinarian immediately. Regular health checkups, including bloodwork and urine analysis, can help detect kidney issues before symptoms appear. If your pet is 6 years and above, it is advisable to conduct health checkups in consultation with your vet every 6 months.

Nutrition Matters: Veterinary HPM^® for Kidney Health

A well-balanced diet plays a crucial role in managing kidney disease. Veterinary HPM^® offers a high-protein, low-carbohydrate formula designed to support overall health while reducing strain on the kidneys. With 90% animal protein as the first ingredient, it aligns with a carnivorous diet while avoiding harmful additives like gluten and artificial flavoring. It also promotes a healthy coat, optimal digestion, kidney and urinary health. Importantly, the high quality animal protein with no use of meat by-products, helps to keep the phosphorus content well within limits as well.

Final Thoughts

Kidney disease in dogs is a serious condition, but with early detection and appropriate treatment, pet parents can help extend and improve their furry friend’s life. Awareness of kidney disease in dogs signs, regular vet visits, and a well-managed diet are essential in slowing the disease’s progression. If you suspect kidney problems in dogs, do not wait—seek veterinary advice as soon as possible. Your pet’s health and well-being depend on it.