
- Foods Low in Protein and phosphorus. Nutrition plays a vital role in sustaining good health amongst dogs having chronic kidney diseases. ...
- Fatty Acids Rich Foods. Including sources of omega-3 fatty acids in your dog’s diet can prove to be beneficial. ...
- Moist Foods. The moist foods or canned foods have good water content, which is required for dogs with kidney failure.
- Dog Treats. Since all dogs love treats, it is important to give something healthy to treat dogs suffering kidney failure.
Full Answer
What foods can dogs with kidney disease eat?
What foods should a dog with kidney disease eat? Your dog can safely consume foods like carrots, green beans, white rice, and boiled chicken. Always ask your vet about any food choices before you feed your dog.
What is the best food to feed a dog with diarrhea?
Your dog can safely consume foods like carrots, green beans, white rice, and boiled chicken. Always ask your vet about any food choices before you feed your dog. Your vet will advise you of all the foods your dog can eat.
What to do if your dog doesn’t like renal dog food?
If your dog doesn’t like the taste of the food, you can try out different brands and flavours of renal dog food, or even add tasty low-sodium treats such as fish oil. Some animals even like the change-up in foods, with their appetite changing per day.
How often should I Feed my Dog with kidney disease?
"Dogs with kidney disease tend to have trouble keeping weight on," Dr. Bailey says "They tend to not have a great appetite, so I would lean towards feeding your dog a few times a day." She adds that you'll also want to make sure your dog has easy access to water.

Does kidney failure in dogs cause diarrhea?
The clinical signs of more advanced kidney failure include loss of appetite, depression, vomiting, diarrhea, and very bad breath. Occasionally, ulcers will be found in the mouth.
What foods can dogs with kidney disease eat?
For dogs with renal health issues, feed them a diet of high-quality protein with low phosphorus and sodium, and added omega-3 fatty acids, such as a mix of good quality meat, veggies like bell peppers, and either a supplement of omega-3's or fish, flax, sardines, or anchovies.
What foods should dogs with kidney failure avoid?
High salt (sodium) diets may increase blood pressure and may worsen kidney damage, so diets designed for pets with kidney disease are low in sodium. You should also avoid feeding high salt treats such as cheese, bread, deli meat, and many commercial dog and cat treats.
Does kidney failure in dogs affect their bowels?
Diarrhea or constipation Because the kidneys regulate the fluids in the body, you might see issues and changes concerning your dog's bowel movements.
Is chicken OK for dogs with kidney disease?
Ideally, Dr. Mahaney says, you would be feeding your dog "fresh, cooked, moisture-rich, lean protein sources, including chicken or turkey breast, or defatted beef."
Is canned tuna good for dogs with kidney disease?
Tuna canned in springwater can be a good addition to renal diets. It is low in phosphorus, rich in omega-3 fatty acids and has a strong flavour, which can be used to increase the appeal of the carbohydrate component of the diet.
Is chicken broth good for dogs with kidney disease?
Commercially available kidney support diets tend to be quite palatable because it is so important for these dogs to eat in a way that slows the progression of their CKD. If needed, adding water, tuna juice, or low sodium chicken broth may increase the flavor and acceptance.
Is rice good for dogs with kidney disease?
Some of the best foods for dogs with kidney disease are brown rice and lean protein sources. Remember that dogs with the renal disease need less protein, phosphorus, and sodium than their healthy counterparts.
Is white rice good for dogs with diarrhea?
Veterinarians often recommend owners feed dogs that have diarrhea a diet consisting of boiled hamburger and white rice for a few days. This type of bland, easily digested diet gives the intestinal tract a bit of a break while still providing needed calories and nutrients.
Is diarrhea a symptom of kidney failure?
Patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) most commonly complain of gastrointestinal symptoms, such as diarrhea.
Does kidney disease cause bowel problems?
Conclusions: It is common for patients with CKD to experience signs and symptoms of abnormal bowel health. There is a disconnect between patient perceptions and clinical definitions of normal or abnormal bowel health.
How do you comfort a dog with kidney failure?
Offer fresh food at each feeding. Make sure your dog always has access to clean, fresh water. Sometimes, dogs that have chronic kidney failure don't feel like eating. For them, it may help to warm food to just below body temperature, and to try hand feeding for the first few days of a new diet.
What is the best dog food for a dog with kidney problems?
The Best Dog Foods For Kidney DiseaseBlue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet KS Kidney Support Grain-Free Dry Dog Food. ... Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets NF Kidney Function Formula Canned Dog Food. ... Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Urinary SO Dry Dog Food. ... Hill's Prescription Diet k/d Kidney Care with Chicken Dry Dog Food.More items...
How do I feed my dog with kidney disease?
Ingredients1 cup boiled chicken (chopped)1 hard boiled egg (mashed)2 tbsp. plain yogurt.1/4 cup cooked brown rice.1/4 cup steamed carrots.1/4 cup steamed green beans.
What dog treats are OK for dogs with kidney disease?
1:228:46The Best Dog Treats for Kidney Disease Low Protein - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThat many dogs love and they will go well with your pet's new low protein diet some of these foods.MoreThat many dogs love and they will go well with your pet's new low protein diet some of these foods. Include apples bananas blueberries broccoli carrots green beans and zucchini.
What fruits and vegetables are good for dogs with kidney disease?
Consistently feeding your pet a therapeutic diet for kidney disease can help him to live longer and feel better and you can still have some creativity/flexibility through treats....What are safe fresh foods I can give?WatermelonGreen beansZucchiniApplesBaby carrotsBlueberriesBananasBroccoliCarrotsMay 23, 2018
Best Foods For A Dog With Kidney Disease
The good news, especially for the overwhelmed pet parent, is that you probably won't have to get too deep into the weeds to figure out the feeding...
Moist Foods Are Good For A Dog With Kidney Disease
An internet article about how the word "moist" is the worst word ever went viral, getting four million views, but whether you hate that word or not...
Dog Treats For Dogs With Kidney Disease
If you want a healthy pet treat to give to your dog with kidney disease, an occasional carrot can be good for them, Dr. Bailey says. "Green beans c...
Preparing Meals For A Dog With Kidney Disease
Whatever you and your veterinarian decide to go with, whether canned or dry dog food, or fresh and cooked meats, the hardest thing about having a d...
What Treats Can You Give A Dog With Kidney Failure?
Treats have always been big in the canine world. No dog can say no to a bowl of delicious yogurt or chicken flavored greenies.
What Human Food Can Dogs With Kidney Disease Eat?
Dogs suffering from CKD can consume most of our foods provided they don’t have salt and seasonings.
Why Does A Dog With Kidney Failure Stop Eating?
One of the symptoms of both kidney disease and kidney failure is loss of appetite.
How Can I Improve My Dog’s Appetite With Kidney Disease?
A dog that has little or no appetite is the one that doesn’t eat or enjoy his food as much as he used to.
Why does my dog's appetite decrease?
Usually, the reason for decreased appetite is the accumulation of wastes in the dog’s body.
What happens when a dog eats close to his workout?
When a pup eats close to his workout, the body’s ability to metabolize food is greatly compromised.
Why does my dog have a lot of water?
Frequent urination, vomiting, and diarrhea all cause large volumes of water to leave the dog’s body.
What to do if my dog has kidney failure?
If your dog suffers from kidney failure, one of the most important things you can do for him is to get him off kibble and on to fresh foods. As for reducing the protein content of the diet, homeopathic vet Dr. Don Hamilton offers the following: It is commonly thought that when there is any evidence of kidney disease, ...
What is the best food for dogs?
Eggs are highly digestible proteins and should form a good part of your dog’s diet. Dairy sources of protein are also highly digestible – if giving dairy, it should be from unpasteurized sources if possible. Poultry is also more digestible than red meats.
Why should dogs not eat protein?
Traditionally, vets have recommended restricting protein consumption because protein is poorly metabolized by dogs with kidney failure. Protein creates a high nitrogen load that can further stress the liver and kidneys.
Why does my dog drink so much?
This is because dogs with kidney disease are unable to concentrate their urine, meaning a large volume of urine and subsequent thirst and dehydration.
What happens to a dog's kidneys when it loses blood?
As the kidney function declines, the dog retains ammonia, nitrogen acids and other chemical wastes in his blood and tissue. This is called uremia. The degree or uremia is determined by measuring blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine and electrolytes.
Does dog kibble have preservatives?
Finally, kibble is laden with preservatives, artificial colors, synthetic additives – all of which need to be excreted through the kidney, creating even further stress. Like the skin, the kidneys are an integral part of cleansing the body from toxins. If your dog suffers from kidney failure, one of the most important things you can do ...
Is kibble bad for dogs?
Kibble is not a good option for these dogs. The second reason kibble can further stress dogs with kidney failure is that dry food is very low in water (15 to 20% compared to 80 to 85% in fresh foods). Kidney disease dehydrates your dog and the dehydration causes him to feel ill – just like a hangover. He will have much better luck ...
How to change a renal diet for a puppy?
Make sure the transition is very slow, as most options with restricted protein levels may not be as tasty for your pup. Rotating the formula and gradually adding the new food to his meals will encourage him to eat.
What are the ingredients in a dog's diet?
Other primary ingredients include sweet potatoes, potatoes, peas, pea protein, and other holistic vegetables. The diet is also rich in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids along with a variety of minerals and vitamins to also support good digestion, skin, and fur quality.
How long does a dog live with kidney failure?
According to a study, the average life expectancy of a dog diagnosed with kidney failure can range between 112 to 326 days. However, as bleak as it may seem, the right diet and proper care can show the progression of the disease and your dog may live several years if the diagnosis and treatment are taken care of on time.
Why is it important to give your dog reduced protein?
Kidneys work to remove the toxins produced from protein breakdown. When kidneys are not functioning well, this can lead to a buildup of these toxins and put stress on the organ. Therefore, it is crucial to offer your dog food with reduced levels of protein.
Why are kidneys important for dogs?
Just like humans, kidneys are the most important organs of a dog’s body. They contribute to your pooch’s overall optimal health by maintain ing normal concentrations of salt, water, and phosphorus levels. Also, kidneys help with calcium metabolism and help control blood pressure. And that’s not all the reasons why these bean-shaped organs are so crucial. They also play a vital role in getting rid of toxins and waste from the body.
How to change my dog's diet?
To start with, mix only a bit of the new, renal-supportive food with the regular food your dog already loves. Increase gradually and let your dog take its time adjusting to the new diet. You can always add to the palatability of the new diet by adding delicious, healthy toppers.
Why do dogs vomit?
Vomiting is a common symptom of kidney failure in dogs.
How to help a dog with kidney disease?
Ensure plenty of fresh water: Kidney disease can often increase your dog’s thirst, so make sure they always have access to clean, fresh water at all times , refilling their bowl when you notice it is getting a bit low. Because of this, feeding your dog moist or wet food can also help to quench their thirst.
What to do if my dog is not eating?
If your dog is still not eating, then assisted feeding may have to be done at first to encourage them. Never force your dog to eat, as this can stress them out, but through enticement and praise they can be persuaded and helped to regain their appetite.
Why is my dog refusing to eat?
Dog with renal disease refusing to eat. Loss of appetite is a very common symptom and side effect of kidney disease, but it important for your dog’s health to make sure they are eating enough per day. Dogs with kidney disease who refuse to eat are probably feeling nauseous. Changing up the food is an option, but it might be ...
What to do if my dog doesn't like the taste of the food?
If your dog doesn’t like the taste of the food, you can try out different brands and flavours of renal dog food, or even add tasty low-sodium treats such as fish oil. Some animals even like the change-up in foods, with their appetite changing per day.
What does it mean when your pet's kidneys stop working?
The term “chronic kidney disease” can be a terrifying phrase for many pet owners, who often assume that this means that the kidneys have stopped working completely. However, while the kidneys are not working to their full potential, they are still functional and can be encouraged to keep working with the help of medication and a controlled diet.
Why do animals need kidneys?
Because of this, animals with kidney disease need food that does not contain large amounts of phosphorus, protein or sodium, so that stress can be taken off of the kidneys and allow them to perform their functions without any risk of further damage.
Why does my dog not like to eat?
Sometimes their lack of appetite can simply be because of pickiness, which can be helped through tasty additions such as fish oil or meat broth as a topper with no stock added – often the animal just needs to get used to the taste and will soon be happily eating it without any additional dressings. A positive attitude can also do wonders, with positive encouragement telling your dog that the food is good and nice to eat. Acting anxious or concerned about the food may give your dog reason to worry about the contents of the food.
How to help a dog with diarrhea?
Dog Diarrhea Home Feeding Remedies 1 Withhold food for 24 hours: Diarrhea can dehydrate your dog, so be sure that he always has access to plenty of fresh water. 2 Offer a Bland Meal: Serve four to six small meals throughout the day rather than one big meal. 3 Make a homemade remedy for dog diarrhea:#N#– One part broiled lean hamburger to two parts cooked rice.#N#– Broiled chicken and rice are also an alternative.#N#– One-part cottage cheese or boiled egg mixed with two parts rice or cooked macaroni.#N#– When the dog’s diarrhea stops and they are tolerating regular portions of food, consider adding 1 tablespoon of fiber one time a day to the dog’s diet. 4 Feed the diet for three days: In this case, even after diarrhea has stopped. On the fourth day, combine this special half-and-half with your dog’s regular food. Continue reducing until by the end of the week. By this time, your dog should be eating standard portion rations. 5 Dog Diarrhea exceeding 24 hours: If your dog’s condition worsens, go seek a Veterinarian’s help.
What to do if my dog has loose stools?
If your dog has loose stools, but is otherwise acting normal, try home feeding remedies which can help dog diarrhea. If diarrhea continues and there’s other alarming symptoms, then it’s completely appropriate to seek medical attention from the dog’s Veterinarian.
Why is my dog's stool brown?
The amount and color of stool produced by a dog are affected by diet. On the other hand, large amounts of loose, odorous, or unusually colored stools are abnormal. Mostly, dogs are known to move their bowels once or twice daily. A dog’s excrement is typically solid and brown, so when pet parents notice a change, this should be a cause for concern.
How long does diarrhea last in dogs?
Dog Diarrhea exceeding 24 hours: If your dog’s condition worsens, go seek a Veterinarian’s help. For one thing, prevention of diarrhea in a dog comes down to micromanaging your dog’s intake. All in all, avoid sudden changes to a dog’s diet, feeding him table scraps, milk treats, or leaving the trash can accessible.
How to get a dog's stomach back to normal?
In general, remove the food dish and specifically, serve water or ice chips. For this reason, the canine stays hydrated while he fasts.
What are the symptoms of GI distress in dogs?
For example, GI symptoms like constipation, scooting, abnormally colored stools, flatulence, blood or mucus in stools, bloating, vomiting, and liquid excrement.
Is it safe to give over the counter medication to dogs?
ANSWER: Altogether, it’s dangerous to administer an over-the-counter medication to a canine without your Veterinarian’s approval or recommendation.
What to feed a dog with diarrhea?
It’s finally time to for your dog to have a small meal—but what do you feed a dog with diarrhea? Look for bland, easily digestible food that is soothing to the GI tract. (We’ve got six tried-and-true suggestions below.)
How long does diarrhea last in dogs?
Remember: If your dog’s diarrhea has lasted longer than two days, call your vet.
What are the good guys in dogs?
Think of probiotics as the “good guys” in your dog’s GI tract. When “bad guys” like e. Coli or salmonella overgrow inside your dog’s gut, they can throw the whole system out of whack, resulting in diarrhea. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help resolve diarrhea by restoring that internal balance.
How long does it take for a dog's stool to return to normal?
When your dog’s stools have returned to normal for two to three days, gradually reintroduce their usual diet.
Can dogs eat sweet potatoes?
Both white potatoes and sweet potatoes are easily digestible starches, making them ideal to serve to dogs with diarrhea. But do not serve raw potatoes to a dog; they must be cooked. That’s because potatoes contain a compound called solanine, which can be toxic to dogs. Baking reduces the levels of solanine in a potato, making them safe to eat.
Can dogs eat pumpkin pie?
Plain canned pumpkin is different from pumpkin pie filling, which also comes canned and can look similar. Do not serve pumpkin pie filling to dogs. Serve only plain canned pumpkin that you will find in the canned vegetables aisle of your supermarket. Because the two can look similar, double-check to be sure you’re using plain canned pumpkin before serving to your dog.
Can dogs have diarrhea?
Depending on the cause of your dog’s diarrhea, your dog may benefit from a food made for specific health conditions. For example, feeding a hypoallergenic food or a novel protein food (food made from a type of protein your dog has not eaten before) may help dogs who suffer diarrhea due to allergies. Read more about food allergies here.
What are the characteristics of a diet that may improve digestive tract health?
Characteristics of a diet that may improve digestive tract health include: Good quality protein that has high digestibility (exceeding 85%), which requires less gastric, pancreatic, biliary and intestinal secretions for more complete digestion and absorption. Protein loss through the gut is common with chronic diarrhea.
What are the ingredients in a digestive supplement?
Other ingredients that may be important to digestive health are: Glutamine — a non-essential amino acid that has many supportive functions for the digestive tract. Supplementation can improve digestive health and optimize immune system function.
What are the characteristics of a good diet?
Characteristics of a diet that may improve digestive tract health include: 1 Good quality protein that has high digestibility (exceeding 85%), which requires less gastric, pancreatic, biliary and intestinal secretions for more complete digestion and absorption. Protein loss through the gut is common with chronic diarrhea. An easily-digestible diet is recommended because the lining of the intestines is often damaged and this can impair digestion and absorption. 2 Fat is a tricky nutrient. It is a good source of energy, so a high fat diet is beneficial in some diseases. However, other conditions result in altered fat transport or metabolism, so a low fat diet is better. It may be necessary to try different diets to see which one works best. 3 Both soluble and insoluble fiber have beneficial effects, so a diet with moderate fermentation and solubility is recommended to get the benefit of both types. 4 Carbohydrates should also be highly digestible. White rice is considered to be the best source of carbs for digestive tract disorders.
Can dogs eat high fat diet?
Dogs with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (caused by a lack of digestive enzymes produced by the pancreas) should eat an easily-digestible diet that is either very low fat or sometimes high in fat, depending on the animal’s response.
Can I make my dog's own diet?
While it is possible to prepare a homemade diet to meet these recommendations, I recommend you consult a veterinar y nutritionist for help in formulating an appropriate recipe . Alternatively, many prescription and even a few over the counter diets are available that meet these criteria and have been used successfully for years. Ask your veterinarian for a recommendation appropriate to the particulars of your dog’s situation.
Can PetMD answer pet health questions?
Note: PetMD isn’t able to respond to pet health questions or to offer veterinary advice.
Can diarrhea cause digestive problems in dogs?
Sometimes the diet is not the primary cause of digestive tract dysfunction, but when diarrhea occurs over a prolonged period of time, it can lead to nutrient deficiencies or exacerbate the underlying disorder. Most dogs with chronic diarrhea benefit from switching to a diet that can improve their ability to digest and absorb nutrients, thereby optimizing the overall health of the animal.

The Best Dog Foods For Kidney Disease
- 1. Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet KS Kidney Support Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Top 5 Ingredients:1. Deboned Chicken, 2. Potato Starch, 3. Pea Starch, 4. Peas, 5. Potatoes The digestible kibble features perfectly balanced nutrition for dogs suffering from kidney disease. Formulated under expert guidance, this recipe by Blue Natural Veterinary Diet is one of the best … - 2. Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets NF Kidney Function Formula Canned Dog Food
Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Water Sufficient for Processing, 2. Meat By-Products, 3. Rice, 4. Corn Grits, 5. Beef Dietary management is crucial for proper treatment of your dog, and if you’re looking for a wet-food blend that offers everything your dog needs for improved kidney function, you cannot g…
Bonus Foods For Kidney Disease
- 9. Hill’s Prescription Diet k/d Kidney Care Beef & Vegetable Stew Canned Dog Food
Top 5 Ingredients:1. Water, 2. Beef, 3. Carrots, 4. Rice, 5. Chicken Fat The limited level of protein in this savory meal is extracted from supreme-quality animal-based protein and stands out as a great food choice for dogs with kidney disease. The holistic combination of high-quality ingredie… - 10. Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Renal Support S Dry Dog Food
Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Corn, 2. Brewers Rice, 3. Chicken Fat, 4. Chicken By-Product Meal, 5. Dried Plain Beet Pulp Kidney problems can significantly reduce a dog’s appetite. To tackle this problem, Royal Canin has created a Veterinary Diet Renal Support Dog Food with a special savory and aro…
Buyer’s Guide
- Just like humans, kidneys are the most important organs of a dog’s body. They contribute to your pooch’s overall optimal health by maintaining normal concentrations of salt, water, and phosphorus levels. Also, kidneys help with calcium metabolism and help control blood pressure. And that’s not all the reasons why these bean-shaped organs are so crucial. They also play a vita…
FAQs
- Is it important that I change the diet of my dog suffering from kidney disease?
Yes, it is important to switch to a diet that supports kidney care. The food you feed needs to provide proper nutrition, absent the ingredients that can worsen the condition. Changing your dog’s diet not only supports better organ function but helps control symptoms and prevent othe… - Can I give homemade dog treats to my dog with kidney disease?
Just because your dog has been diagnosed with kidney disease doesn’t mean you should stop rewarding or treating your dog. Avoid treats that contain high levels of phosphorus, protein, and sodium, so don’t feed your dog things like cheese, dry meat, or bread. The best treats are natura…
Final Thoughts
- While kidney disease is not reversible, with proper diet and management, your dog can live years past diagnosis. If you suspect your dog is experiencing problems related to their kidneys, you should immediately consult with your veterinarian. With a little help, you can provide a happy life to your dog despite the disease. And when it comes to picking the best dog foods for kidney dis…