Best Kidney Diet For Dogs

Diet for Dogs with Kidney Problems

If you have a dog with kidney disease or kidney failure, then special kidney diet for dogs are recommended no matter which stage of the chronic renal disease your pup is in; however, there are some foods that may be better suited for certain stages than others.

Most vets recommend against giving table scraps because many human foods are not good for pets especially if they have large amounts of fat or sodium.

When it comes to carbs, dogs with kidney problems should avoid foods that are high in starches because they have a hard time breaking them down which can lead to more renal stress. This means no bread, white rice, etc.

Factors contributing to kidney disease in dogs:

  • Age: kidney problems in dogs increases after the age of 7
  • Food: Dog foods that have high level of certain mineral such as phosphorous or others could increase the chances of developing kidney disease.
  • Infections
  • Toxic chemicals
  • Cancer

Signs of serious kidney conditions typically appear after 70 to 75% of the kidneys’ function are lost. The initial stages will be classified as renal damage or kidney disease before they progress into acute kidney failure.

The common signs of kidney disease to look out for includes:

  • Lack of energy and increased sleeping
  • Increased thirst and urine production. A dog’s failing kidneys are unable to concentrate the urine in the way that they did when she was healthy, hence there is a correspondingly higher volume of urine linked with the increase in water consumption.
  • Decreased appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Bad breath
  • Vomiting and diarrhea
  • Sore mouth
  • Weakness

We recommend to go for early detection for dogs older or senior dogs. With early diagnosis and treatment, you can improve the quality of life and extend the longevity of your dog.

Kidney Failure vs. Kidney Disease

The difference between kidney failure and kidney disease lies in how advanced the condition is – as well as how much damage has been done to the kidneys. In most cases of chronic renal disease, only one of the dog’s kidneys is affected so he doesn’t have renal failure yet – his other kidney is able to stand up to some of the stress until it eventually starts having problems too. When a dog has a full-blown renal failure it means his kidneys have ceased functioning at a normal level and he will require life-long care or else he will die.

If your dog is diagnosed with kidney disease, switching to a quality renal food as soon as possible will help you avoid having to undergo an expensive diet change down the road. With the above understanding, we have selected a list of top-rated kidney diet for dogs here for your review and selection.

With early diagnosis and treatment, you can improve the quality of life and extend the longevity of your dog.

FAQs on Kidney Diet For Dogs

1. What is a kidney diet for dogs?

A kidney diet for dogs is a specialized diet that is designed to help support the health of your dog’s kidneys. Kidney diets typically contain lower levels of protein and phosphorus than regular dog food, and may also include other nutrients that are beneficial for kidney health.

2. Why might my dog need a kidney diet?

There are several reasons why your dog might need a kidney diet. Kidney disease is a common health concern in older dogs, and a kidney diet can help to support kidney function. Additionally, some dogs may be born with congenital kidney problems that require a special diet.

3. How do I know if my dog needs a kidney diet?

If your dog has been diagnosed with kidney disease, your veterinarian will likely recommend a kidney diet. Additionally, if your dog has any symptoms of kidney problems (such as increased thirst or urination, weight loss, lethargy, etc.), a visit to the vet is in order to determine if a kidney diet is necessary.

4. What are the benefits of a kidney diet for dogs?

A kidney diet can help to support the health of your dog’s kidneys by providing them with nutrients that are necessary for proper kidney function. Additionally, a kidney diet can help to slow the progression of kidney disease and improve your dog’s quality of life.

5. Are there any risks associated with feeding my dog a kidney diet?

There are no known risks associated with feeding your dog a kidney diet. However, it is important to work closely with your veterinarian to make sure that the diet you choose is appropriate for your dog’s individual needs.

6. My dog has been diagnosed with kidney disease. What now?

If your dog has been diagnosed with kidney disease, your veterinarian will likely recommend a kidney diet. In addition to dietary changes, your vet may also recommend other treatment options such as medication or supplements. Your vet will be able to create a treatment plan that is best for your dog’s individual needs.

7. My dog doesn’t have kidney disease, but I’m interested in feeding them a kidney diet. Is this a good idea?

If your dog is healthy and does not have any kidney problems, there is no need to feed them a kidney diet. However, if you are interested in feeding your dog a diet that is lower in protein and phosphorus, speak with your veterinarian about whether or not this would be appropriate for your dog.

8. How do I transition my dog to a kidney diet?

If your dog is currently eating a regular diet, there are a few things you can do to make the transition to a kidney diet easier. First, slowly mix the new diet in with your dog’s current food, gradually increasing the amount of new diet while decreasing the amount of old food. Second, feed smaller meals more frequently throughout the day instead of one or two large meals. Finally, make sure to provide plenty of fresh water for your dog to drink.

9. Will feeding my dog a kidney diet cure their kidney disease?

Unfortunately, there is no cure for kidney disease. However, a kidney diet can help to support the health of your dog’s kidneys and may help to slow the progression of the disease. Additionally, other treatment options such as medication or supplements may be recommended by your veterinarian to help improve your dog’s quality of life.

 
chronic kidney disease in dogs
acute kidney disease in dogs

Food for dogs with kidney issues should be:

  • Lower in protein. The reason is that with reduced kidney function, the kidneys can become overwhelmed by too much nitrogenous waste from digesting protein. These excess protein waste products are toxic for the dog.
  • Low in phosphorus. With kidney problems, too much of phosphorus an lead to hyperphosphatemia, an electrolyte disturbance in which abnormally elevated levels of phosphate appear in the dog’s blood.
The lower protein and low phosphorus diet is meant to be helpful in lowering toxic phosphate levels.
 
Omega 3 fatty acids found in fish oil supplements can also be helpful for a dog with chronic kidney disease.
 
Table of Contents

Top-Rated Kidney Diet For Dogs

Best Kidney Diet for Dogs

We have evaluated dozens of top-rated kidney diet for dogs in the market to bring you the best ones. Here is our review and recommendation on high quality food for dogs with kidney problems for you to choose from based on your dog’s needs.

Highlights:

Highlights:

Highlights:

  • Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Renal Support S Dry Dog Food
  • S stands for Savory formula which can help stimulate appetite in dogs and encourage eating
  • Highly palatable energy-dense formula to reduce meal volume
  • Kidney Diet For Dogs – promote kidney function with a precise antioxidant complex, fatty acids from fish oil, low phosphorus, and targeted protein levels.
  • 17.6 lb bag.

Highlights:

  • BLUE BUFFALO Natural Veterinary Diet Kidney Support For Dogs
  • Controlled levels of protein to help support kidney functions.
  • Kidney Diet For Dogs – controlled levels of phosphorus (0.55% max) and sodium (0.25% max) to help support kidney health.
  • Vital Nutrients including Antioxidants, Omega-3 Fatty acids and L-carnitine to help support overall health
  • Grain-Free
  • 22 lb bag.

Highlights:

  • FORZA10 Renal Support Dog Food
  • Heart and Kidney Health Support – specialized formula treats the effects of chronic and acute kidney and heart disease in dogs
  • Gentle on Sensitive Stomachs and Digestive Systems.
  • Balanced nutrition – nutrient rich dry dog food while giving special attention to kidney health.
  • Easy to Feed – can be combined with wet food or eaten on its own to balance out your dog’s nutrition. 
  • High Quality – made with wild-caught anchovy protein and brings together other nutrient rich raw ingredients for your dog.
  • 8.8 lb bag.

HILL'S Prescription Diet, Wet Dog Food, Kidney Diet For Dogs

Highlights:

  • HILL’S Prescription Diet k/d Kidney Care Chicken & Vegetable Stew Canned Dog Food
  • Canned Dog food formulated to support your dog’s kidney and joint health
  • Proven nutrition clinically for improving mobility and lengthen quality of life
  • Controlled phosphorus and low sodium, with nutrition to protect vital kidney and heart function
  • Formulated to improve your dog’s ability to run, walk and jump in as little as 21 days
  • Include ingredients glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate  and omega-3 fatty acids.
  • 12 cans, each can is 12.5 oz.

PURINA Pro Plan Veterinary Diet, Wet Dog Food, Kidney Diet for Dogs

Highlights:

  • PURINA Pro Plan Veterinary Diets NF Kidney Function Wet Dog Food
  • Ingredients includes beef, liver, chick by-products, meat by-products, fish oil, vitamins and minerals.
  • Restricted amount of high-quality protein
  • Restricted phosphorus of 0.15% max to help support kidneys
  • Reduced sodium of 0.13% max.
  • 12 cans, each can is 13.3 oz.

Highlights:

  • ROYAL CANIN Veterinary Diet Renal Support D Morsels In Gravy Canned Dog Food
  • D stands for Delectable formula which can help stimulate appetite in dogs and encourage eating with morsels in gravy texture
  • Energy-dense highly palatable formula to reduce meal volume
  • Kidney Diet For Dogs – antioxidant complex, fatty acids from fish oil, low phosphorus, and targeted protein levels help to promote kidney function.
  • 24 cans, each can is 13 oz.

Highlights:

  • BLUE BUFFALO Natural Veterinary Diet Kidney Support Wet Dog Food
  • Controlled levels of protein to help support kidney workload.
  • Controlled levels of phosphorous and sodium to help support kidney health.
  • Vital Nutrients including Antioxidants, Omega-3 Fatty acids and L-carnitine to help support overall health
  • Grain-Free
  • Wholesome Diet
  • 12 cans, each can is 12.5oz.

Highlights:

  • Forza10 Wet Dog Food Kidney RENAL ACTIWET with Lamb,
  • Kidney care dog food formulated to help renal and cardiac problems such as chronic or acute renal failure.
  • Low protein, phosphorus, and sodium
  • Pasture raised New Zealand lamb enriched with a mix of natural, therapeutic plants and fruits
  • No corn free, wheat, soy
  • No artificial preservatives, colors or flavors
  • Available in: 12 pack case, each case is 3.5 oz;  32 pack case, each case is 3.5 oz.

Conclusion

There are many foods that are good for dogs with kidney problems. These include lean chicken breast without skin or fat, lean hamburger meat without skin fat, green beans, potatoes, brown rice. Change of your dog’s diet should be done gradually over a one to two week period.

As your dog’s condition can change, due to the progression on the kidney’s condition, you may need to adjust the amounts of food being given at each mealtime. 

Do ask your veterinarian to help make suggestions based on your dog’s specific needs, if you are unsure about what to feed your dog with kidney problems.  It is important to also share with your vet on any other changes in your dog’s behavior like drinking more or less water, increased urination (especially after exercise), depression, weight loss, and others that can indicate changes in your dog’s health condition.

 
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