The Ultimate Guide to Canine Kidney Failure: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments 2025

Have you just learned that your dog is suffering from kidney failure, or are you looking to better understand this condition? Since kidney failure is estimated to affect one in ten dogs during their lifetime, it’s wise to educate yourself about how to recognize and manage this disease—or even better, how to maintain good health to help prevent it altogether.

As your dog ages, you may worry about their health, knowing that even with the best care, certain conditions can still arise. That’s why I wanted to share as much practical information as possible about kidney disease in dogs, including its causes, symptoms, and solutions to help you manage it effectively and adopt healthy habits for your pet.

What is the role of a dog’s kidneys?

A dog’s kidneys function much like ours: they detoxify the blood by filtering out waste (toxins), maintain water and electrolyte balance, produce essential hormones, regulate blood pressure and vitamin D, and contribute to red blood cell production.

These vital organs play a crucial role, and kidney failure can lead to serious health issues affecting the entire body. Proper care and attention are critical to managing and preventing these complications.

What are the two types of kidney failure in dogs?

Kidney disease in dogs can present itself in two forms: chronic kidney failure and acute kidney failure.

What is chronic kidney failure in dogs?

Chronic kidney failure in dogs develops slowly over months or even years. Early symptoms may go unnoticed, meaning that by the time the disease is diagnosed, significant kidney damage has already occurred. Unfortunately, chronic kidney disease is irreversible due to its progressive nature.

However, if your dog has recently been diagnosed with chronic kidney disease, don’t lose hope! This article offers numerous strategies to help improve their quality of life and extend their lifespan in comfort.

What is acute kidney failure in dogs?

Acute kidney failure, also called acute kidney injury, appears suddenly. It may result from severe dehydration, urinary obstruction, ingestion of toxic substances, or bacterial infections. Symptoms emerge rapidly and are often severe.

With prompt intervention, many cases of acute kidney injury can be managed, but it is considered a medical emergency. Ignoring the symptoms or delaying treatment can lead to irreversible damage or long-term kidney issues.

By understanding the symptoms outlined here, you’ll be better equipped to recognize and address acute kidney problems in your dog as early as possible.

What are the symptoms of kidney failure in dogs?

How can I tell if my dog has chronic kidney failure?

Chronic kidney disease develops gradually, so symptoms may not appear all at once and are often subtle at first. Initial signs include increased thirst, frequent urination, or bad breath. Over time, more noticeable symptoms like fatigue and weakness may develop.

How can I tell if my dog is experiencing kidney pain?

Below are common symptoms of chronic kidney failure. Note that these signs can also indicate other health issues. Always consult an animal health professional for accurate diagnosis and guidance.

1. Observable symptoms of chronic kidney failure:

• Blood in the urine
• Vomiting
• General weakness
• Increased urination, including at night
• Excessive thirst
• Bad breath
• Mouth ulcers
• Reduced mobility
• Hunched posture
• Muscle weakness
• Loss of balance
• Seizures
• Swelling in limbs or other areas due to water retention
• Bloodshot eyes
• Retinal detachment

2. Symptoms of chronic kidney failure detected by a veterinary professional:

• High blood pressure
• Anemia (reduced red blood cell production)
• Dehydration
• Changes in kidney size
• Endocrine imbalances

How can I tell if my dog has acute kidney failure?

Symptoms of acute kidney failure appear suddenly and should prompt immediate attention.

• Diarrhea
• Complete loss of appetite
• Extreme lethargy
• Disorientation
• Severe physical weakness
• Difficulty urinating
• Loss of coordination
• Vomiting

If these symptoms appear suddenly or in combination, they pose a serious risk to your dog’s life and require urgent veterinary care. Knowing the causes of kidney disease can also help you make changes to your dog’s habits to reduce risk.

What Causes Kidney Failure in Dogs?

One of the primary factors contributing to kidney disease in dogs is age. As dogs grow older, the likelihood of their kidneys starting to malfunction increases significantly.

What Causes Chronic Kidney Failure?

While this isn’t an exhaustive list, here are the most common causes of chronic kidney disease:

• Age-related kidney tissue degeneration;

• Genetics;

• Congenital malformations (affecting younger dogs);

• Untreated kidney infections;

• Kidney injuries;

• Recurring urinary tract infections;

• Kidney abnormalities;

• Diabetes;

• Lymphoma;

• Cancer.

What Causes Acute Kidney Failure?

• Reduced blood flow to the kidneys due to significant blood loss;

• Trauma;

• Inflammation;

• Parasites;

• Severe dehydration;

• Heart failure;

• Major kidney damage;

• Fungal, viral, or bacterial infections;

• Toxic exposure (antifreeze, certain medications, pesticides, poisonous plants, etc.);

• Urinary blockage (bladder or urethra stones);

• Complications from surgery or pre-existing conditions that reduce blood flow to the kidneys.

How Can Kidney Failure Be Prevented in Dogs?

While you can’t control genetics or congenital abnormalities, there are still steps you can take to reduce your dog’s risk of developing kidney disease.

Here are seven essential tips to keep handy:

1. Schedule regular checkups with your vet to catch potential issues early.

2. Maintain a healthy weight for your dog.

3. Keep your dog hydrated. Ensure they always have access to clean water, even when traveling (carry a water bottle for outings).

4. Provide a balanced diet under the guidance of a professional. Consider fresh food and natural supplements for enhanced quality of life.

5. Ensure your dog doesn’t have access to harmful substances, such as medications, onions, garlic, pesticides, antifreeze, or toxic plants.

6. Only opt for vaccines, medications, or surgeries when they are absolutely necessary.

7. Prioritize natural solutions whenever possible.

Will These Steps Guarantee That My Dog Won’t Develop Kidney Disease?

Unfortunately, no. But these measures significantly improve your dog’s overall health and reduce the risk of kidney problems. A healthier, stronger dog is less likely to develop serious illnesses.

However, genetics and life circumstances can still lead to kidney disease. If this happens, early diagnosis and appropriate testing can make a big difference. While these tests may seem daunting, they are crucial to ensuring your dog receives the right care at the right time.

How Is Kidney Disease Diagnosed in Dogs?

The vet will start with a physical exam, checking for tenderness, unusual posture, swelling due to water retention, or pain in the kidneys or back. A rectal exam might also be performed to detect issues in the urethra, bladder, or prostate.

Here are some common tests your vet might recommend based on your dog’s condition and symptoms:

• Blood pressure monitoring;

• Comprehensive blood panel;

• Complete blood count;

• Urinalysis;

• Infectious disease testing (e.g., Lyme disease);

• X-rays or ultrasound imaging;

• Ultrasound scan;

• Chemistry panel with electrolytes;

• Urine protein-to-creatinine ratio.

What Can Blood Tests Reveal?

Blood tests help measure toxins like urea and creatinine, which are naturally filtered out by healthy kidneys. If these levels are elevated, it can indicate kidney dysfunction in your dog.

What Can X-rays and Imaging Reveal?

When kidneys fail to function properly, they often undergo physical changes, such as shrinking. X-rays or ultrasounds can detect these changes, as well as alterations in the size of other connected organs, like the bladder and prostate, which play a vital role in kidney health.

Whether your dog has chronic or acute kidney failure, diagnostic tests are essential for accurate evaluation. Rest assured, most of these procedures are painless, and your presence during the process can provide comfort and reassurance for your pet.

How Can Kidney Disease Be Managed in Dogs?

Now that you know how to identify kidney disease in dogs, it’s time to explore solutions!

The course of action depends on the severity and type of kidney failure. Chronic and acute conditions require different treatments, and consultation with an animal health professional is crucial.

In cases of chronic kidney disease, the gradual destruction of kidney function often leads to a diagnosis when significant damage has already occurred.

However, with the right care and tailored solutions, a dog diagnosed with kidney disease can still enjoy several good years. Treatments aim to alleviate symptoms and slow the disease’s progression.

A Tailored Diet

Consult your veterinarian to determine the best diet for your dog’s specific condition.

Some experts advocate for a low-protein diet, as proteins high in phosphorus can increase nitrogenous waste and put extra strain on the kidneys and liver. However, this approach is not universally agreed upon, and some nutritionists warn of potential amino acid deficiencies with low-protein diets.

Here are a few general dietary tips:

• Provide a balanced raw food diet.

• Incorporate calcium and dark leafy greens to help maintain low phosphorus levels.

• Include probiotics and prebiotics to support toxin elimination.

• Avoid dry food, which can exacerbate dehydration.

• Steer clear of kibble and canned food that contribute to toxin buildup.

Ensuring Proper Hydration

Providing your dog with constant access to clean, fresh water is vital for maintaining hydration. Proper hydration can naturally help reduce creatinine levels in dogs with kidney disease.

In cases of severe dehydration, your veterinarian may recommend intravenous or subcutaneous fluid therapy, often referred to as liquid therapy, to support recovery.

Other Possible Treatments

Your veterinarian might also suggest:

• Fluid infusions to flush out accumulated toxins;

• Diuretics to promote urination;

• Medications to manage vomiting and diarrhea;

• Antibiotics for infections;

• Specialized treatments for complications like high blood pressure.

Can Dogs Undergo Dialysis or Kidney Transplants?

Dialysis

Dialysis is an option for dogs, but it’s typically reserved for severe cases of kidney failure. This process temporarily replaces kidney function by filtering toxins and waste from the blood when the kidneys are no longer capable.

While effective, dialysis is expensive, requires specialized equipment, and is only available at select veterinary clinics. It is usually used as a temporary measure to stabilize the dog’s condition or extend its life while considering other treatments.

Kidney Transplant

Kidney transplants are another possibility for dogs, though they are rare and typically considered a last resort for end-stage kidney failure. This complex and costly procedure is performed in specialized veterinary centers, often associated with universities or research facilities.

It’s essential to have detailed discussions with a veterinary specialist about the risks, benefits, and long-term implications of a kidney transplant for your dog.

What Natural Treatments Can Help Manage Kidney Disease in Dogs?

While some treatments are invasive and necessary, many symptoms of kidney disease can also be eased with natural remedies that are gentler on your dog’s system.

Herbal Remedies

Certain plants, such as orthosiphon, desmodium, ginkgo, dandelion, and Milk Thistle, have proven benefits for kidney, liver, blood circulation, and bladder health.

Pilosella, for instance, offers diuretic and antiseptic properties, particularly helpful for urinary tract infections.

Before administering any natural products to your dog, consult a specialist. Even natural remedies can interact negatively with certain foods or medications if not used properly.

Traditional Chinese Medicine

Some Chinese herbs can stimulate blood flow in the kidneys, promoting the elimination of toxins.

If you seek out a professional in Chinese medicine, provide a detailed list of all medications and supplements your dog is taking.

Homeopathy

Homeopathy has shown significant benefits for animals and can help ease the symptoms of kidney disease.

The holistic approach of homeopathy focuses on treating the animal as a whole, considering its individual history and specific condition.

Homeopathy offers a natural and personalized way to support your pet’s health. It can also be used alongside traditional treatments to provide comprehensive care tailored to your animal's specific needs.

What Life Expectancy Can I Expect for a Dog with Kidney Disease?

Can a Dog Live with Kidney Disease?

• While chronic kidney failure cannot be cured, early diagnosis can significantly extend your dog's life. Management strategies for chronic kidney disease focus on alleviating symptoms, slowing progression, and ensuring your dog lives as comfortably as possible.

• If kidney failure is caused by another condition, such as reduced blood flow to the kidneys or a urinary obstruction, proper intervention can help manage the disease and improve life expectancy. This highlights the importance of consulting a veterinarian promptly.

• In cases of acute kidney failure, if treatment—such as antibiotics, fluid therapy, or medications—returns urea and creatinine levels to normal, the dog’s life expectancy is restored. If not, the dog may require ongoing monitoring, as their kidneys could remain weakened.

What Happens During the Final Stage of Kidney Disease in Dogs?

When a dog reaches the end stage of kidney failure, its body can no longer filter toxins from the blood, leading to a buildup of waste. Symptoms of this advanced phase include severe loss of appetite, frequent vomiting, extreme fatigue, and sometimes seizures or coma.

In this terminal phase, the dog may also experience severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, making it increasingly difficult to sustain vital functions. Unfortunately, this condition is irreversible, and veterinarians often recommend palliative care to manage pain and ensure the dog is as comfortable as possible.

Conclusion

Most would agree that the key to managing kidney disease in dogs is regular medical checkups, especially as they age. Routine tests to measure urea and creatinine levels can help monitor kidney function and prevent unpleasant surprises.

If kidney failure is detected, working with a professional to implement a specialized diet can help extend your dog’s life.

Finally, I highly recommend natural products, such as homeopathy, which have worked wonders for my dog in many situations. At Homeoanimo, you’ll benefit from personalized advice from an experienced team that focuses on your dog’s overall health, not just their symptoms. Feel free to reach out with any questions you may have!

When it comes to kidney disease, the word to remember is vigilance. Paying attention to changes in your dog’s behavior or habits allows for timely intervention. This principle applies to all aspects of their health.

Keep this guide handy and share it, especially with those whose dogs are starting to age.

If you’re worried about your pet’s health, our Free Animal Health Recommendation service can help. Along with advice from our Natural Health Advisors, you’ll receive guidance on the best products and treatment options tailored to your pet’s health needs.