Kidney failure in dogs: management, therapy, medication, and diet

Kidney failure is a common and serious disease that can affect dogs of all ages, but is more commonly found in adult or senior dogs (8 years and older).

The causes can be varied and may depend on both genetic factors and external causes.

Unfortunately, this condition doesn't always resolve, and one must learn to live with it and manage it in the best way for the well-being of the dog.

If canine kidney failure is not diagnosed at an early stage and treated with the correct therapy, the damage to the kidneys could be severe and irreversible, leading to the death of the animal.

It is, therefore, important to thoroughly understand this pathology, whether your dog is affected by it or to be able to prevent or identify it.

In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments of kidney failure in dogs.

What is kidney failure in dogs?

Kidney failure is a condition in which the kidneys are unable to function properly in filtering toxins and waste from the blood, maintaining the balance of body fluids, and regulating electrolyte levels.

The failure of these vital organs can lead to the accumulation of harmful substances in the dog's body, and chemical imbalances that can damage other vital organs.

Kidney failure can be acute or chronic.

In most cases, the cause of kidney failure in dogs is improper diet, but there are other factors that can cause it, and they vary depending on the nature of the pathology.

Acute Kidney Failure

Acute kidney failure in dogs is a severe condition where the kidneys undergo a rapid and sudden deterioration of their function.

Acute kidney failure develops quickly and can be reversible with prompt treatment.

What are the causes of acute kidney failure?

Generally, it is determined by a situation that does not depend on the general health of the dog, and can be determined by an unpredictable event, for example:

Poisoning
Infections
Traumas
Urinary obstructions

Among the pathologies that stimulate kidney failure are:

Pancreatitis
Heart problems
Blood clots
Addison's disease (or hypoadrenocorticism)
Liver malfunction
Leishmaniasis
High or low blood pressure
Lyme disease
Rupture of the urinary tract

Chronic Kidney Failure

Unlike acute kidney failure, chronic kidney failure in dogs is a progressive condition where the kidneys gradually lose their ability to function properly in filtering toxins and maintaining fluid balance in the body.

This disease is often irreversible and requires long-term treatment to manage symptoms and preserve the dog's quality of life.

What are the causes of chronic kidney failure in dogs?

The causes of chronic kidney failure in dogs can vary and include:

Congenital kidney diseases
Recurrent episodes of acute kidney failure
Autoimmune diseases
Chronic infections
Kidney injuries
Kidney tumors
Prolonged use of nephrotoxic medications
Advanced age of the dog and normal wear and tear of the kidneys (+8 years)
Breed predisposition (Cocker Spaniel, Basenji, Samoyed, Rottweiler, Shar Pei, Bull Terrier)

What are the symptoms of kidney failure in dogs?

The initial symptoms of kidney failure in dogs can include:

Dehydration due to a poor desire to drink
Blood in urine
Lethargy
Weakness
Vomiting, particularly yellow vomit
Strong breath odor resembling the smell of urine
Pale mucous membranes, especially the gums
Black stools
Diarrhea or constipation
Dark brownish tongue
Loss of appetite
Weight loss
Apathy
Fever

The symptoms of end-stage kidney failure generally include:

Disorientation
Stomach, intestinal, or mouth ulcers
Excessive abdominal pain
Neurological alterations
Abnormal behavioral changes
Loss of coordination
Decreased vision with possible blindness
Collapse
Seizures
Coma

However, these symptoms can vary from dog to dog and can be similar to other conditions, so a proper veterinary diagnosis is important.

Values of kidney failure in dogs

The reference values that can indicate kidney failure in dogs include:

Creatinine: Creatinine is a waste product derived from muscle metabolism and is eliminated by the kidneys. A significant increase in blood creatinine levels can be a sign of reduced kidney function.
Azotemia: Azotemia is the presence of an excess of nitrogenous compounds, such as urea and creatinine, in the blood. High levels of azotemia may indicate kidney problems.
Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN): Blood urea nitrogen measures the levels of urea in the blood. Elevated BUN levels can indicate a decrease in kidney function.
Phosphorus: An increase in phosphorus levels in the blood can be associated with kidney problems, as the kidneys are responsible for eliminating excess phosphorus.
Proteins in urine: The presence of proteins in urine, such as albumin, can indicate a loss of kidney functionality, as normally proteins should not be present in significant amounts in urine.

The interpretation of these values depends on the clinical context and the dog's symptoms, and the anomaly may be determined by different types of pathologies.

Only a veterinarian can provide an accurate assessment of the specific values associated with kidney failure in dogs and establish an appropriate treatment plan based on the individual circumstances of the dog.

Diagnosis of Kidney Failure in Dogs

The diagnosis of kidney failure in dogs is made through laboratory tests and imaging tests to assess urea and creatinine levels, urine analysis to detect abnormalities, and ultrasounds or X-rays to identify any obstructions or kidney injuries.

In some cases, a kidney tissue biopsy may be necessary for a more in-depth evaluation.

It's important to consult a veterinarian as soon as possible if acute kidney failure in a dog is suspected, in order to undertake appropriate therapeutic measures and improve the dog's chances of recovery.

Therapy for Kidney Failure in Dogs

The therapy for kidney failure can vary depending on the severity of the condition.

The treatment of acute kidney failure in dogs depends on the cause of the problem and the severity of the condition. This may include supportive therapy such as fluid therapy to maintain hydration, medications to manage symptoms, correction of electrolyte imbalances, and specific treatment for the cause of the acute kidney failure.
The treatment of chronic kidney failure in dogs aims to slow the progression of the disease, alleviate symptoms, and improve the quality of life of the dog. This may include a specific low-protein diet, medication therapy to control blood pressure, supplements for kidney health, fluid therapy to maintain hydration, and regular monitoring of kidney function. In some cases, dialysis or hemolysis may be necessary.

Medications for Dog's Kidney Failure

The management of kidney failure in dogs can include the use of specific medications to help control symptoms and improve kidney function.

The choice of medication will depend on the severity of kidney failure, the dog's health conditions, and the veterinarian's prescription.

The most commonly used medications in the therapy of kidney failure in dogs include:

ACE inhibitors: ACE inhibitors, such as enalapril or benazepril, may be prescribed to control blood pressure and reduce the workload on the kidneys. They can help dilate blood vessels and reduce kidney inflammation. The most common among these is Fortekor.

Phosphorus control medications: In cases of chronic kidney failure with high levels of phosphorus in the blood, medications such as calcium carbonate or sevelamer may be prescribed to reduce the absorption of phosphorus from the intestines.

Diuretics: Some dogs with kidney failure may benefit from the use of diuretics like furosemide to increase urine production and reduce fluid buildup.

Medications for anemia: Kidney failure can cause anemia in dogs. In some cases, medications like erythropoietin may be prescribed to stimulate red blood cell production in the bone marrow.

Acid control medications: Kidney failure can lead to the buildup of acids in the blood. Medications like sodium bicarbonate may be used to maintain the acid-base balance in the body.

It is crucial to follow the veterinarian's directions and not to administer any medication to the dog without a prescription or veterinary supervision.

Medications must be used with caution, and the veterinarian will regularly check the dog to assess the response to treatment and make any necessary adjustments to the therapy.

Feeding Dogs with Kidney Failure

Diet is a crucial aspect in managing kidney failure in dogs.

To manage this condition, it's essential to follow a diet specifically designed for kidney failure that helps reduce the workload on the kidneys while providing the necessary nutrients to maintain the dog's overall health.

Here are guidelines to improve the diet of a dog with kidney failure:

Reduction of Protein Content: Dogs with kidney failure should follow a low-protein diet.
Excessive protein can increase stress on the kidneys. However, it's important that the diet still contains an adequate amount of high-quality protein to prevent muscle mass loss.
Phosphorus Control: Dogs with kidney failure often have elevated levels of phosphorus in their blood.
Limiting phosphorus intake through diet can help slow the progression of kidney disease. It's advisable to use specific low-phosphorus foods or add supplements that help control phosphorus levels.
Sodium Levels Control: In some cases, it may be necessary to limit sodium intake in the diet of a dog with kidney failure. This can help control blood pressure and reduce the risk of water retention.

For more information on the diet for a dog with kidney failure and recommended and avoidable foods, read this article:

Foods for Dog's Kidney Failure - List and Recipes

Additionally, ensure to follow some guidelines that should become part of the daily routine:

Always Leave Water Available: Ensure the dog has constant access to clean and fresh water.
Feed Frequently but in Small Portions: In some cases, smaller and more frequent meals may be recommended to ease the load on the kidneys and help manage sugar and insulin levels.

Supplements are also recommended to improve the health of a dog with kidney failure, such as:

Antioxidants (particularly Vitamin C, E, and carotene)
Taurine
Fatty acids (particularly Omega 4)
Probiotics
Coenzyme Q10
Herbs to improve kidney function

How Long Can a Dog Live with Kidney Failure?

It's difficult to say, as each case is unique, and the life expectancy of a dog with kidney failure can depend on many factors:

Severity of the disease
Age of the dog
General health
Response to treatment
Early or late diagnosis

Kidney failure can be a progressive and chronic disease, but with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, it's possible to improve the quality of life of the dog and prolong its survival.

In the case of chronic kidney failure, survival varies significantly and can be influenced by the response to treatment, management of complications, and the presence of other concurrent diseases. Some dogs can live for many years with good quality of life with proper disease management.

In the case of acute kidney failure, the prognosis can depend on the timeliness of diagnosis and intervention. With adequate treatment and constant monitoring, some dogs may fully recover, while in other cases, there can be permanent impairment of kidney function.

How Can I Treat My Dog's Kidney Failure?

An episode of acute kidney failure in dogs at the initial stage can be treated and resolved without damage if diagnosed and treated in time.

However, in the case of chronic kidney failure, the only possible treatment is managing the disease, aimed at ensuring the dog has the best possible life expectancy in the best possible conditions.

Thus, the answer to your question is: if chronic, kidney failure cannot be cured, only managed.

When to Euthanize a Dog with Kidney Failure?

The decision to euthanize a dog with kidney failure is a difficult and personal choice that depends on several factors.

No one can decide for you when the time has come, but remember that this decision should never be delayed to avoid our suffering when the dog has reached the point of no return, and if it suffers greatly or is no longer able to lead a normal life.

And it should not be anticipated either, because if the disease is diagnosed at an early stage, treating a dog with kidney failure to allow it to live a long time is possible and dutiful.

Generally, euthanasia is considered when the dog has severe impairment of kidney function that cannot be effectively managed, or when the dog suffers from severe symptoms that significantly affect its quality of life.

If the dog's kidney failure is advanced and the kidneys are unable to function adequately
If the dog has a low quality of life due to persistent or severe symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, constant lethargy, or pain
If the dog does not respond well to treatment and does not show significant improvements in kidney function and suffers
If the dog develops severe complications such as strong dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, or failure of other organs

Then probably it's time to let it go over the rainbow bridge.

It is important to involve a trusted veterinarian who can provide advice and support during this difficult process.

How to Prevent Kidney Failure in Dogs

Unfortunately, sometimes it is not possible to avoid this terrible pathology. If genetics, age, or particular events play against you, you will have to learn to live with it.

But dog kidney failure can be prevented by following some simple rules that must become part of your furry friend's lifestyle:

Provide the dog with a balanced and high-quality diet
Ensure that the diet contains the correct amount of protein, a moderate amount of phosphorus, and an adequate water intake.
Make sure the dog always has access to a source of fresh and clean water.
Keep the dog in good shape
Keep the dog away from toxic substances such as chemicals, poisonous plants, kidney-damaging drugs (if not indispensable), and foods harmful to dogs such as chocolate, grapes, and onions.
Perform regular veterinary checks to assess the overall health of the dog
Regularly check the dog's blood pressure
Ensure that the dog is subjected to recommended vaccinations
Prevent exposure to parasites such as ticks and fleas
Reduce stress and anxiety, which can affect the dog's overall health

Following these guidelines will help your dog avoid all risks associated with kidney failure and many other diseases.

Always remember that prevention is better than cure, and this rule must apply not only to us but also to our animal friends.

Author's Note

I invite all readers to share their experiences on this topic in the comments section.

Any information you wish to share about health, character, products, and advice on training or diet will help us create a great community of owners who not only love dogs but also know how to manage them best.

From the Staff of Khani.co.uk

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Disclaimer

The information on our site is of a general nature and does not in any way replace the opinion of the veterinarian or industry experts. For any doubt, always turn to the veterinarian.