Kidney Failure

Support for Symptoms of Kidney Failure in Dogs

The kidneys are an integral part of the urinary system. Their primary role is to keep your dog free of toxins and waste that can accumulate in the body. 

Symptoms of Dog Kidney Failure

In the early stages, there is likely to be no detectable signs, but these symptoms may appear in later stages.

• Increased thirst and water consumption
• Frequent urination
• Poor appetite and weight loss
• Depression
• Vomiting
• Fatigue

Functions of the Kidneys

• Maintain the correct balance of water and electrolytes
• Produce hormones necessary to maintain blood pressure
• Produce blood cells
• Absorb salts
• Process vitamin D

Acute Kidney Failure (Sudden Onset)

Acute kidney failure is most often seen in younger pets, but can affect a dog at any age. This sudden onset is usually due to direct trauma or damage to the kidney itself. Repeated episodes can lead to chronic kidney disease. If one or both kidneys malfunction, it may lead to kidney failure. 

In the early stages, there may be no symptoms of kidney failure in your dog, but in the later stages, an increase in drinking and urinating may occur.

Chronic Kidney Failure (Long-Term)

Chronic kidney failure (CKF) occurs gradually over time, taking months or even years and is most prevalent in dogs six years and older.

CKF is broken up into four stages, and symptoms don’t appear until stage three and four. By that point, the kidneys will be functioning at about 25% efficiency.

Read Huey's Story of how he wouldn’t let kidney disease stop him thanks to NHV’s plant-based supplemental support.

Causes of Kidney Failure in Dogs

Kidney failure occurs when either the kidneys can no longer remove the toxins and waste products from the blood, or if there is a blockage in the urinary system causing a buildup of toxic waste in the blood. A few other causes may include:

• Low blood pressure 
• Heart failure
• Medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatories
• Drugs used to treat dogs with heart disease.

Some dog breeds are more prone to kidney problems such as the Bull Terrier and the Shih-Tzu. Go online to NHV to find out if your dog breed is more at risk of getting kidney disorders, and talk to your vet about including natural supplements early before symptoms of kidney disease in your dog occur.

Additional Support Tips

Supporting your dog with a healthy diet and natural supplements is imperative. NHV offers a wide range of holistic, vet-formulated and approved remedies for pets. Supplements such as our kidney failure super support kit provide additional support along with vet-recommended treatment for kidney failure in dogs.

If you have questions regarding holistic supplements you can ask an NHV expert because, at NHV, we want your canine companion to have a longer healthier life naturally.