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Chronic Kidney Disease (Chronic Impaired Kidney Function) in Dogs

Occurrence: common
Location of illness: Abdomen/pelvis

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 06.11.2025

ChronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. kidney disease (CKD) in dogs is a progressiveProgressive describes a condition or disease that worsens over time. This term is often used to characterize the course of an illness that causes increasingly severe symptoms or damage. condition in which the kidneys lose their ability to filter waste products from the blood and concentrate urine, leading to a buildup of toxins in the body.

The most important facts at a glance

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) in dogs is a slowly progressiveProgressive describes a condition or disease that worsens over time. This term is often used to characterize the course of an illness that causes increasingly severe symptoms or damage. disease that impairs kidney function. The kidneys are crucial for detoxifying the body and regulating fluid balance. CKD often develops unnoticed over months or years and is usually only recognized when a significant portion of kidney function is lost. Causes are varied, including genetic factors, infections, toxicToxic means "poisonous" and refers to substances that can have harmful effects on the body, including damage to organs, cells, or disruption of metabolic processes. substances, and age-related changes. Certain breeds, such as the Cocker Spaniel, are genetically more susceptible. Common symptoms are vomiting, increased thirst and urination, loss of appetite, and high blood pressure.

The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is based on clinical symptoms, blood and urine tests, and imaging procedures. Blood tests measure creatinineCreatinine is a waste product that results from the breakdown of creatine, a chemical compound that provides energy in the muscles. The concentration of creatinine in the blood and urine is an important indicator of kidney function. and ureaUrea, also known as carbamide, is a waste product of protein metabolism in the body. It's formed in the liver and excreted by the kidneys in urine. The urea level in the blood indicates kidney function., which are elevated in kidney failureRenal failure is a condition in which the kidneys can no longer adequately perform their function of filtering and excreting waste products from the blood. It can be acute or chronic and requires immediate medical treatment.. The treatment aims to alleviate symptoms and slow the progressionProgression refers to the advancement or worsening of a disease over time. It describes an increase in the severity or extent of the disease symptoms.. Dietary adjustments, such as a special kidney diet, are important. Medications to control blood pressure and to relieve nausea are frequently used. The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. varies, early diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and treatment can improve the quality of life. Preventive measures include a balanced diet, regular veterinary examinations, and the avoidance of toxicToxic means "poisonous" and refers to substances that can have harmful effects on the body, including damage to organs, cells, or disruption of metabolic processes. substances. Research focuses on genetic markers, nutritional strategies, and new drugs to develop better treatment options.

Causes

The kidneys are vital organs responsible for detoxifying the body, regulating fluid and electrolyte balanceThe electrolyte balance refers to the balance of electrolytes in the body, which is essential for many physiological processes. Disturbances in the electrolyte balance can lead to serious health problems., and producing certain hormones. In dogs, as in other mammals, the kidneys work by filtering the blood and excreting waste products, excess fluids, and electrolytesElectrolytes are minerals in the body that carry an electric charge and perform vital functions such as regulating fluid balance, acid-base balance, and nerve and muscle activity. The main electrolytes include sodium, potassium, chloride, and magnesium. in the form of urine.

ChronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. kidney disease develops slowly over months or years and is often not recognized until a significant portion of kidney function has already been lost. The causes can be varied and include genetic predispositions, infections, toxicToxic means "poisonous" and refers to substances that can have harmful effects on the body, including damage to organs, cells, or disruption of metabolic processes. substances, and age-related degenerative changes.

A common cause of CKD in dogs is chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. inflammation of the kidneys (nephritis), which can be caused by bacterial infections such as leptospirosis or by viralViral refers to viruses and their effects on the organism. Viral infections in dogs and cats can range from harmless colds to severe, life-threatening diseases. infections such as canineCanine refers to anything related to dogs. The term is used to describe characteristics, diseases, or specific aspects that specifically affect dogs. adenovirus. Autoimmune diseasesAutoimmune diseases are conditions in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells or tissues as if they were foreign substances. Examples in dogs and cats include autoimmune hemolytic anemia and systemic lupus erythematosus., in which the body attacks its own kidney tissue, can also lead to chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. kidney damage.

Genetic factors also play a role, especially in certain breeds that are more susceptible to kidney diseases, such as the Cocker Spaniel, Doberman, and German Shepherd. ToxicToxic means "poisonous" and refers to substances that can have harmful effects on the body, including damage to organs, cells, or disruption of metabolic processes. substances, including certain medications and chemicals, can also damage the kidneys and lead to a chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. condition.

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Common symptoms:

Rare symptoms:

The symptoms of chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. kidney disease in dogs are often subtle and develop insidiously, which makes early detection difficult. Common signs are increased drinking and urination, as the kidneys lose their ability to concentrate urine and the body tries to compensate for the toxins through excretion.

Other symptoms may include loss of appetite, weight loss, vomiting, diarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems., and bad breath, which is caused by the increase of ureaUrea, also known as carbamide, is a waste product of protein metabolism in the body. It’s formed in the liver and excreted by the kidneys in urine. The urea level in the blood indicates kidney function. and other waste products in the blood. In advanced stages of the disease, dogs may appear lethargic and show signs of weakness or reluctance to move.

Neurological symptoms such as disorientation, convulsions, or an unsteady gait can also occur when the toxins accumulate in the blood and impair the central nervous systemThe CNS (central nervous system) consists of the brain and spinal cord. It is responsible for processing information and controls most functions of the body and behavior.. Pallor of the mucous membranes and high blood pressure are also possible signs of advanced chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. kidney disease.

Diagnosis

The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. kidney disease in dogs is based on a combination of clinical symptoms, laboratory tests, and imaging procedures. An important first step is a thorough anamnesis and physical examination by the veterinarian to assess the symptoms and general health of the dog.

Blood tests are crucial to check kidney function. The concentrations of creatinineCreatinine is a waste product that results from the breakdown of creatine, a chemical compound that provides energy in the muscles. The concentration of creatinine in the blood and urine is an important indicator of kidney function. and urea in the blood are measured, which are elevated in kidney failureRenal failure is a condition in which the kidneys can no longer adequately perform their function of filtering and excreting waste products from the blood. It can be acute or chronic and requires immediate medical treatment.. Another important blood testA blood test is a laboratory procedure in which blood is drawn and analyzed to obtain information about the body's health. It can include various parameters such as blood sugar, blood count, liver and kidney values. is the complete blood count and the electrolyte profile, which can provide information on anemia and electrolyte disorders.

A urine test is also essential to check the degree of urine concentration and the presence of proteinProteins are large molecules made up of amino acids and play an essential role in almost all biological processes. They are necessary for building body tissue, the function of the immune system, and as enzymes for metabolic reactions., glucoseGlucose is a simple sugar and the body's main source of energy. The concentration of glucose in the blood is regulated to meet the energy needs of the cells., or other abnormal components. Imaging procedures such as ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. or X-rays can be used to assess the structure of the kidneys and identify any abnormalities or calcifications.

In addition, a kidney biopsyA biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small amount of tissue is removed from the body to be examined under a microscope for signs of disease. Biopsies can help diagnose cancer and other conditions. can be performed to determine the exact cause of the kidney damage, especially if the cause is unclear or a specific treatment is required. Genetic tests can be helpful in breeds with a known predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases. to kidney diseases.

Therapy

The treatment of chronic kidney disease in dogs aims to alleviate symptoms, slow the progressionProgression refers to the advancement or worsening of a disease over time. It describes an increase in the severity or extent of the disease symptoms. of the disease, and improve the dog’s quality of life. An individualized therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. is crucial, as the treatment depends on the severity of the disease and the specific needs of the dog.

Dietary measures are an essential part of the treatment. A special kidney diet that contains a reduced proteinProteins are large molecules made up of amino acids and play an essential role in almost all biological processes. They are necessary for building body tissue, the function of the immune system, and as enzymes for metabolic reactions. content, low phosphorusPhosphorus is a vital mineral found in bones and teeth, playing a central role in energy metabolism and DNA. A balanced phosphorus to calcium ratio is essential for the health of dogs and cats. content, and increased amounts of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants can help reduce the kidney load and positively influence the course of the disease.

Medications can be used to control symptoms and prevent complications. ACE inhibitors are commonly used medications that lower blood pressure and reduce the strain on the kidneys. CalciumCalcium is a mineral that is essential for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth. It also plays a role in blood coagulation, nerve transmission, and muscle contraction. channel blockers and angiotensin II receptor blockers can also be used to control high blood pressure.

Additional treatments may include fluid therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. to support hydration and electrolyte balanceThe electrolyte balance refers to the balance of electrolytes in the body, which is essential for many physiological processes. Disturbances in the electrolyte balance can lead to serious health problems., phosphate binders to control phosphate levels, and medications to relieve nausea and vomiting. In advanced cases, dialysisDialysis is a medical procedure that mimics the function of the kidneys by removing waste and excess water from the blood when the kidneys are no longer able to perform this task adequately. or kidney transplantation may be considered, although these options are less common in veterinary medicine.

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosis for dogs with chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. kidney disease varies considerably and depends on early detection, the rate of disease progressionProgression refers to the advancement or worsening of a disease over time. It describes an increase in the severity or extent of the disease symptoms., and the response to treatment. In general, the disease is progressiveProgressive describes a condition or disease that worsens over time. This term is often used to characterize the course of an illness that causes increasingly severe symptoms or damage. and can ultimately be fatal, as kidney function is irreversibly damaged.

However, early diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and appropriate treatment can slow the progressionProgression refers to the advancement or worsening of a disease over time. It describes an increase in the severity or extent of the disease symptoms. of the disease and significantly improve the dog’s quality of life. Many dogs can live relatively symptom-free for several months to years with appropriate medical care and dietary adjustments.

Close collaboration with a veterinarian is crucial to develop an individual treatment plan and perform regular monitoring to make adjustments to the therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. and maximize the dog’s well-being.

Prevention

Although not all cases of chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. kidney disease can be prevented, there are measures that can reduce the risk and support kidney health. A balanced diet and the avoidance of overweight are important factors, as overweight increases the strain on the kidneys.

Regular veterinary examinations are crucial to monitor kidney function and detect early signs of kidney diseases. In breeds with a genetic predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases., regular checks of blood and urine values can help identify problems early.

Avoiding toxicToxic means "poisonous" and refers to substances that can have harmful effects on the body, including damage to organs, cells, or disruption of metabolic processes. substances, including certain medications, household chemicals, and plants that can cause kidney damage, is also important. Access to clean drinking water and promoting adequate fluid intake further support kidney function.

Learn about the genetic risks of your dog breed and talk to your veterinarian about possible preventive measures and special diets or supplements that can help support kidney health.

Outlook on current research

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) in dogs is a progressive condition that impairs kidney function over a long period of time. Currently, research is focused on various aspects of this disease to develop better diagnostic and treatment methods. A significant area of research is the identification of genetic markers that could indicate which dogs are at higher risk of developing CKD. By analyzing genetic profiles, researchers hope to better design preventive measures and enable early interventions.

Another important area of research is the investigation of the role of nutrition in the development and progressionProgression refers to the advancement or worsening of a disease over time. It describes an increase in the severity or extent of the disease symptoms. of CKD. There is evidence that certain diets specifically tailored to dogs with kidney problems can slow the progressionProgression refers to the advancement or worsening of a disease over time. It describes an increase in the severity or extent of the disease symptoms. of the disease. Scientists are investigating various nutrient compositions and their effects on kidney function to create optimal nutritional plans.

In addition, research is being conducted on the development of new drugs that can support kidney function and slow the progressionProgression refers to the advancement or worsening of a disease over time. It describes an increase in the severity or extent of the disease symptoms. of the disease. Here, the focus is on reducing inflammatory conditions and improving blood flow to the kidneys. Some studies are also investigating the use of herbal remedies and supplements as complementary therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. approaches.

The role of environmental factors is also being intensively researched. Researchers are investigating how environmental toxins and pollutants to which dogs may be exposed affect the risk of developing CKD. The goal is to develop preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. strategies that aim to minimize these risks.

Long-term studies are underway to assess the impact of lifestyle changes, such as increased physical activity and stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. reduction, on the progressionProgression refers to the advancement or worsening of a disease over time. It describes an increase in the severity or extent of the disease symptoms. of kidney failureRenal failure is a condition in which the kidneys can no longer adequately perform their function of filtering and excreting waste products from the blood. It can be acute or chronic and requires immediate medical treatment.. These studies could lead to comprehensive guidelines that improve the management of CKD in dogs.

Research on CKD in dogs is a dynamic and rapidly growing field that is continuously generating new insights. By combining genetic, nutritional, and environmental study approaches, scientists hope to develop a comprehensive understanding of the disease and find innovative therapies that can improve the lives of affected dogs.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. kidney disease in dogs? ChronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. kidney disease is a progressiveProgressive describes a condition or disease that worsens over time. This term is often used to characterize the course of an illness that causes increasingly severe symptoms or damage. disease of the kidneys in which these organs lose their ability to effectively filter waste products from the blood. This leads to a buildup of toxins in the body and can lead to various health problems.
What symptoms does a dog with chronic kidney disease show? The most common symptoms include increased drinking and urination, loss of appetite, weight loss, vomiting, bad breath, and lethargy. In advanced stages, anemia and pale mucous membranes may also occur.
How is chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. kidney disease diagnosed in dogs? The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is usually made through blood and urine tests that assess kidney function and the presence of waste products in the blood. Ultrasound examinations of the kidneys can also be used to detect structural changes.
Can all dog breeds develop chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. kidney disease? Yes, in principle, all dog breeds can develop CKD. However, some breeds such as the Cocker Spaniel, the Doberman, and the German Shepherd may be more susceptible.
What treatment options are available for dogs with chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. kidney disease? The treatment aims to alleviate the symptoms and slow the progressionProgression refers to the advancement or worsening of a disease over time. It describes an increase in the severity or extent of the disease symptoms. of the disease. This includes special kidney diets, medications to control blood pressure and electrolytesElectrolytes are minerals in the body that carry an electric charge and perform vital functions such as regulating fluid balance, acid-base balance, and nerve and muscle activity. The main electrolytes include sodium, potassium, chloride, and magnesium., and supplements. In some cases, fluid therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. may be necessary.
Are there preventive measures against chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. kidney disease in dogs? PreventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. can be difficult as genetic factors play a role. However, a balanced diet, regular veterinary examinations, and the avoidance of toxins can minimize the risk. Early detection and treatment of kidney problems is also crucial.
How does nutrition affect kidney function in dogs? A special diet tailored to dogs with kidney diseases can slow the progressionProgression refers to the advancement or worsening of a disease over time. It describes an increase in the severity or extent of the disease symptoms. of the disease. These diets are usually low in proteinProteins are large molecules made up of amino acids and play an essential role in almost all biological processes. They are necessary for building body tissue, the function of the immune system, and as enzymes for metabolic reactions., phosphorusPhosphorus is a vital mineral found in bones and teeth, playing a central role in energy metabolism and DNA. A balanced phosphorus to calcium ratio is essential for the health of dogs and cats., and sodiumSodium is a vital electrolyte that plays a key role in regulating water balance, blood pressure, and nerve and muscle activity. Unbalanced sodium levels can lead to various health problems in dogs and cats. to relieve the kidneys and reduce the formation of toxins.
Can my dog with chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. kidney disease live a normal life? With the right treatment and care, many dogs with CKD can live a relatively normal and comfortable life. However, regular veterinary check-ups and appropriate therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. are crucial to monitor and adjust the course of the disease.
How often should I have my dog examined for chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. kidney disease? The frequency of veterinary examinations depends on the progressionProgression refers to the advancement or worsening of a disease over time. It describes an increase in the severity or extent of the disease symptoms. of the disease. In general, dogs with CKD should be examined every three to six months. If symptoms worsen, a more frequent visit to the veterinarian may be necessary.
What can I do to help my dog with chronicChronic refers to a condition or disease that is long-lasting or permanent. Chronic diseases often develop slowly and can lead to persistent or recurring health problems over time. kidney disease? In addition to following the veterinarian’s recommendations, you can help your dog by providing a calm, stress-free environment, carefully monitoring his diet, and paying attention to his fluid intake. Loving attention and regular exercise can also contribute to the quality of life.

When to visit the vet?

If the condition worsens / symptoms persist, consult a veterinarian.