Dogs kidneys are life sustaining organs.
Kidneys remove waste from the bloodstream and regulate body fluids. If the kidneys are not able to do their job the result could be life threatening for your dog.
Here we look in-depth at kidney problems in dogs.
What is kidney disease in dogs?
Kidney problems in dogs can effect all species and the initial symptoms can be hard to spot. Kidneys are very important because they remove waste substances from the blood and help maintain the normal balance of fluid and minerals within the body.
When the kidneys are damaged, it is often referred to as kidney or ‘renal’ disease.
It can be very hard to detect kidney disease in dogs and problems may only occur after ¾ of kidney function has been lost.
Dogs may show early warning signs of kidney disease but this is rare. Blood tests and urine analysis can help detect early kidney disease in dogs.
What causes kidney disease in dogs?
A wide range of issues can cause dog kidney disease, including injury, infection, poisons. diet and cancer. Damage to dogs kidneys is usually irreversible.
Progression of kidney can be limited with a combination of good diet and herbs to support the dogs kidneys.
Factors normally affecting kidney disease in dogs include but are not limited too are:
Diet: Some dog foods high in phosphorus can increase the progression of kidney disease.
Age: The chance of developing kidney problems in dogs increases with age.
Breed: Some dog breeds, including English Cocker spaniels, bull terriers and German Shepherds, are more likely to develop particular types of kidney disease.
Environment: Disinfectants, antifreeze, lead paint and other chemicals can cause kidney problems in dogs.
Does my dog have kidney disease?
The signs of kidney disease can be difficult to recognise but if any of the following can be seen, it may indicate your dog has a kidney problem.
Please check with your vet if you see any of the following signs in your dog;
• Bad breath
• Increased thirst and urination
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Sore mouth
• Lack of energy and increased sleeping
• Poor coat
What to do next?
He have several dietary supplements to help your dogs’ kidneys in our online shop.
Take a few moments to fill in our pet health questionnaire on your dogs health and we’ll respond with more detailed suggestions.