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Uremia (Accumulation of Urea in the Blood) in Dogs

Occurrence: common
Location of illness: General/Whole body

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

UremiaUremia is a condition of blood poisoning caused by the increase of waste products, especially urea, that are normally excreted by the kidneys. It occurs when kidney function is severely impaired. in dogs is a serious medical condition caused by the accumulation 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. in the blood due to inadequate kidney function.

The most important facts at a glance

Uremia in dogs occurs when the kidneys lose their ability to efficiently filter waste products such as 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 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. from the blood, leading to an accumulation of these substances. Causes can be 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, acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. 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., 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. reactions, or genetic factors. Certain dog breeds, such as the German Shepherd, are more susceptible. Symptoms include Vomiting, DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems., Weight loss, and loss of appetite. 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 made through blood and urine tests as well as imaging procedures. In some cases, 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. may be necessary. Treatment aims to alleviate symptoms and treat the cause, often through fluid infusions, medications, and special diets. In severe 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. may be necessary. 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. depends on the cause and severity, with acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. cases often being more treatable than 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. ones. PreventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. involves avoiding risk factors, a balanced diet, and regular veterinary examinations. Research focuses on genetic predispositions, improved diagnostic methods, and innovative treatment approaches such as regenerative medicine. The influence of environmental factors on kidney diseases is also being investigated in order to develop preventive measures. The development of special diets to relieve the kidneys is also an important area of research.

Causes

Uremia occurs when the kidneys lose their ability to efficiently filter waste products from the blood and excrete them in the urine. The kidneys are vital organs responsible for maintaining 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., regulating blood pressure, producing hormones, and excreting metabolicMetabolic refers to metabolism, i.e. the entirety of chemical processes that take place in a living organism to enable life processes. Metabolic disorders can cause a variety of Diseases in Dogs and cats. waste products. When their function is impaired, 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 such as 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 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. accumulate in the blood.

Causes of uremiaUremia is a condition of blood poisoning caused by the increase of waste products, especially urea, that are normally excreted by the kidneys. It occurs when kidney function is severely impaired. include 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, acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. 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., 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. reactions, and genetic factors. 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 diseases often result from age-related degeneration or from long-term conditions such as diabetes mellitus or high blood pressure. AcuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. 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. can be caused by a sudden reduction in blood flow to the kidneys, 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. damage, or severe infections.

Genetic predispositions play a role in some dog breeds. For example, breeds such as the German Shepherd or Bull Terrier are more susceptible to certain kidney diseases. In addition, environmental factors such as the ingestionIngestion refers to the intake of substances through the mouth and their delivery to the digestive tract. In dogs and cats, the ingestion of toxic substances, foreign objects, or incompatible foods can lead to health problems. 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, such as antifreeze or certain medications, can damage the kidneys and lead to the development of uremiaUremia is a condition of blood poisoning caused by the increase of waste products, especially urea, that are normally excreted by the kidneys. It occurs when kidney function is severely impaired..

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Common symptoms:

Rare symptoms:

The symptoms of uremiaUremia is a condition of blood poisoning caused by the increase of waste products, especially urea, that are normally excreted by the kidneys. It occurs when kidney function is severely impaired. in dogs can be varied and non-specific, which makes 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. difficult. The most common signs include loss of appetite, Vomiting, DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems., lethargy, and Weight loss. These symptoms result from the accumulation of toxins in the body, which impair metabolism and general well-being.

Other symptoms may include strong bad breath caused by the increased concentration 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. in the saliva, as well as increased urination and excessive thirst. These symptoms are an expression of the body’s attempted compensation to eliminate toxins. In the advanced stage, neurological symptoms such as Muscle twitching, Seizures, or even comaA coma is a deep state of unconsciousness where an individual cannot be awakened and does not respond to stimuli. In dogs and cats, it can be caused by severe illnesses, poisoning, or neurological problems. can occur.

Some dogs also show signs of anemia because the kidneys are impaired in the production of erythropoietinErythropoietin is a hormone produced mainly in the kidneys that stimulates the production of red blood cells (erythrocytes) in the bone marrow. It plays an essential role in the body’s adaptation to oxygen demand., a hormoneHormones are chemical messengers produced by endocrine glands and released into the bloodstream to affect specific cells or organs in the body. They regulate numerous bodily functions, including growth, metabolism, and reproduction. that stimulates the formation of red blood cells. This can lead to pale mucous membranes and general weakness. Some dogs may also develop high blood pressure, which increases the risk of further complications.

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 uremiaUremia is a condition of blood poisoning caused by the increase of waste products, especially urea, that are normally excreted by the kidneys. It occurs when kidney function is severely impaired. in dogs requires a thorough clinical examination by a veterinarian as well as specific diagnostic tests. Basic tests include blood tests that determine the concentrations 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., creatinine, 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.. Increased levels of these substances in the blood indicate impaired kidney function.

In addition, urine tests can be performed to assess urine concentration and look for abnormalities such as proteinuriaProteinuria is the presence of excessive protein in the urine, often indicating kidney dysfunction. It can be an early sign of kidney disease in dogs and cats. or blood in the urine. 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 of the kidneys can reveal structural abnormalities or signs 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. changes.

In some cases, 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. may be required to make a definitive 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 identify the underlying cause of kidney damage. However, this invasiveInvasive describes medical procedures or pathogens that enter the body or penetrate tissue. In medicine, invasive procedures can range from minimally invasive techniques to open surgery. method is usually only used in special cases because it is associated with risks.

Therapy

The treatment of uremia in dogs aims to alleviate the symptoms and treat the underlying cause. In acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. cases, inpatient treatment may be necessary to stabilize 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. through intravenous infusions. Medications can be administered to control Vomiting, regulate blood pressure, and treat anemia.

In the long term, a special kidney diet may be necessary, which reduces the content of proteins and phosphates to reduce the burden on the kidneys. In some cases, medications may be needed to support kidney function or reduce the production of unwanted substances in the body.

In severe cases, especially with 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, 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. may be necessary to replace the function of the kidneys. However, this treatment is complicated and requires specialized facilities and expertise.

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosis for dogs with uremiaUremia is a condition of blood poisoning caused by the increase of waste products, especially urea, that are normally excreted by the kidneys. It occurs when kidney function is severely impaired. depends heavily on the underlying cause and the severity of kidney damage. AcuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. cases that are recognized and treated quickly may have a better prognosis, as kidney function may be restored.

In chronic kidney diseases, 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. is often cautious to poor, especially if the disease is diagnosed at an advanced stage. 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 improve the quality of life of the affected dog.

Regular veterinary check-ups and adherence to recommended treatment plans are crucial to avoid complications and monitor the dog’s health.

Prevention

The preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. of uremiaUremia is a condition of blood poisoning caused by the increase of waste products, especially urea, that are normally excreted by the kidneys. It occurs when kidney function is severely impaired. in dogs involves minimizing risk factors that can lead to kidney damage. This includes 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 and medications that could damage the kidneys. A balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle are also important to support the overall health of the kidneys.

Regular veterinary examinations help to detect early signs of kidney disease before they lead to serious complications. In dog breeds that are genetically susceptible to kidney diseases, regular monitoring of kidney function through blood and urine tests can be particularly important.

Special attention should also be paid to the treatment of underlying diseases that increase the risk of kidney damage, such as diabetes or high blood pressure. Close cooperation with the veterinarian and adherence to treatment and nutritional guidelines are crucial to maintain kidney health.

Outlook on current research

Research into uremiaUremia is a condition of blood poisoning caused by the increase of waste products, especially urea, that are normally excreted by the kidneys. It occurs when kidney function is severely impaired. in dogs is constantly evolving, as this disease poses a significant challenge to the veterinary community. Scientists are focusing on better understanding the underlying causes of uremia in order to develop more effective treatment strategies. A key area of current research is the investigation of the 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. to kidney diseases that can lead to uremia. By identifying genetic markers that make dogs more susceptible to kidney problems, researchers hope to develop targeted preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. strategies.

Another important area of research is the improvement of diagnostic methods. Technologies such as 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. and imaging diagnostics are currently being further developed to enable earlier and more accurate 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 kidney diseases. These advances could help optimize treatment options and improve the quality of life of affected dogs. In addition, new biomarkers are being developed that could enable non-invasive monitoring of kidney condition.

Research is also investigating innovative treatment methods, including regenerative medicine and stem cell therapies. These approaches aim to repair or replace damaged kidney tissue, thereby restoring kidney function in dogs with uremiaUremia is a condition of blood poisoning caused by the increase of waste products, especially urea, that are normally excreted by the kidneys. It occurs when kidney function is severely impaired.. InitialInitial means beginning or at the start. In medicine, it can refer to the first symptoms of a disease or the first phase of a treatment process. studies in this area are promising, but much more research is needed to fully understand the safety and effectiveness of these treatments.

Another interesting development in research is the use of diet management as part of the treatment of uremiaUremia is a condition of blood poisoning caused by the increase of waste products, especially urea, that are normally excreted by the kidneys. It occurs when kidney function is severely impaired.. Special diets that reduce 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 and 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. intake are being studied to reduce the burden on the kidneys 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. These approaches are continuously optimized to ensure the best benefit for affected dogs.

Finally, the influence of environmental factors and lifestyle on the development of kidney diseases and uremiaUremia is a condition of blood poisoning caused by the increase of waste products, especially urea, that are normally excreted by the kidneys. It occurs when kidney function is severely impaired. is being investigated. Researchers are analyzing how diet, exercise, and exposureExposure refers to the Contact with or subjection to certain substances, environmental factors, or pathogens. In veterinary medicine, this can include Contact with toxins, allergens, or infectious agents that can cause health problems in dogs and cats. to toxins can affect the risk of uremiaUremia is a condition of blood poisoning caused by the increase of waste products, especially urea, that are normally excreted by the kidneys. It occurs when kidney function is severely impaired.. These findings could lead to preventive measures that reduce the risk of kidney disease in dogs.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is uremiaUremia is a condition of blood poisoning caused by the increase of waste products, especially urea, that are normally excreted by the kidneys. It occurs when kidney function is severely impaired. in dogs? UremiaUremia is a condition of blood poisoning caused by the increase of waste products, especially urea, that are normally excreted by the kidneys. It occurs when kidney function is severely impaired. is a condition in which 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., i.e. waste products of metabolism, accumulate in the blood. This happens when the kidneys are no longer able to effectively excrete these substances. It is a serious condition that requires urgent veterinary treatment.
What are the symptoms of uremiaUremia is a condition of blood poisoning caused by the increase of waste products, especially urea, that are normally excreted by the kidneys. It occurs when kidney function is severely impaired.? The most common symptoms include loss of appetite, Vomiting, weakness, Weight loss, and increased thirst. In advanced stages, signs such as bad breath, ulcers in the mouth, lethargy, and Seizures can occur.
How is uremiaUremia is a condition of blood poisoning caused by the increase of waste products, especially urea, that are normally excreted by the kidneys. It occurs when kidney function is severely impaired. 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, which show that the kidneys are no longer functioning properly. An elevated 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 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. level in the blood is a typical sign. Further diagnostic measures may include 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.
What causes uremiaUremia is a condition of blood poisoning caused by the increase of waste products, especially urea, that are normally excreted by the kidneys. It occurs when kidney function is severely impaired. in dogs? UremiaUremia is a condition of blood poisoning caused by the increase of waste products, especially urea, that are normally excreted by the kidneys. It occurs when kidney function is severely impaired. can be caused by a variety of factors, including acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. or 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 diseases, infections, poisoning, or genetic predispositions. Determining an exact cause is crucial for the right treatment.
How is uremiaUremia is a condition of blood poisoning caused by the increase of waste products, especially urea, that are normally excreted by the kidneys. It occurs when kidney function is severely impaired. treated in dogs? Treatment focuses on treating the underlying cause and alleviating the symptoms. This may include administering medications, infusions for rehydration, special diets, and in severe cases even 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.. Close monitoring by the veterinarian is necessary.
Can uremiaUremia is a condition of blood poisoning caused by the increase of waste products, especially urea, that are normally excreted by the kidneys. It occurs when kidney function is severely impaired. be prevented in dogs? Preventive measures can reduce the risk of uremiaUremia is a condition of blood poisoning caused by the increase of waste products, especially urea, that are normally excreted by the kidneys. It occurs when kidney function is severely impaired.. These include regular veterinary examinations, a balanced diet, adequate fluid intake, and avoidance of toxins. Special precautions may be advisable for 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..
Is uremiaUremia is a condition of blood poisoning caused by the increase of waste products, especially urea, that are normally excreted by the kidneys. It occurs when kidney function is severely impaired. curable in dogs? UremiaUremia is a condition of blood poisoning caused by the increase of waste products, especially urea, that are normally excreted by the kidneys. It occurs when kidney function is severely impaired. is usually not curable, especially if it is caused by 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 diseases. However, 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 improve the dog’s quality of life.
How long can a dog with uremiaUremia is a condition of blood poisoning caused by the increase of waste products, especially urea, that are normally excreted by the kidneys. It occurs when kidney function is severely impaired. live? The life expectancy of a dog with uremiaUremia is a condition of blood poisoning caused by the increase of waste products, especially urea, that are normally excreted by the kidneys. It occurs when kidney function is severely impaired. depends on the severity of the disease, the treatment, and the dog’s general health. Some dogs can live for several months to years with proper care and management.
What role does nutrition play in the treatment of uremiaUremia is a condition of blood poisoning caused by the increase of waste products, especially urea, that are normally excreted by the kidneys. It occurs when kidney function is severely impaired.? A special diet can help to relieve the kidneys 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. Diets with 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 and controlled 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. are often part of the treatment plan. The veterinarian can recommend the best diet for the individual dog.
Are certain dog breeds more susceptible to uremiaUremia is a condition of blood poisoning caused by the increase of waste products, especially urea, that are normally excreted by the kidneys. It occurs when kidney function is severely impaired.? Yes, certain breeds are more susceptible to kidney diseases that can lead to uremiaUremia is a condition of blood poisoning caused by the increase of waste products, especially urea, that are normally excreted by the kidneys. It occurs when kidney function is severely impaired. due to genetic predispositions. Examples include the German Shepherd, the Cocker Spaniel, and the Doberman. Special precautions and regular examinations can be useful for these breeds.