Best Dog Food for Kidney Support (Vet-Approved Guide)

Here are our top vet‑recommended dog foods for kidney support in Australia for 2025:

• Best Prescription Dry Dog Food for Kidney Support: Hill's Prescription Diet k/d Kidney Care Adult Dog Dry Food
• Best Prescription Dry Dog Food with Joint Support: Hill's Prescription Diet k/d Kidney + j/d Mobility Adult Dog Dry Food
• Best Early Renal Support Dry Food: Royal Canin Veterinary Early Renal Dry Dog Food
• Best Renal Support Dry Food: Royal Canin Veterinary Renal Special Dry Dog Food
• Best Wet Dog Food for Kidney Support: Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets NF Kidney Function Adult Dog Wet Food 377g Cans
• Best Prescription Wet Kidney Support Food: Hill's Prescription Diet k/d Kidney Care Adult Dog Wet Food 350g Cans
• Best Renal Support Wet Food: Royal Canin Veterinary Renal Special Wet Dog Food 410g Cans
  
  

Hill’s Prescription Diet k/d Kidney Care Adult Dog Dry Food

Hill’s k/d Kidney Care is specially formulated to help dogs with compromised kidney function. It contains clinically tested levels of nutrients that help reduce the workload on the kidneys while promoting overall health. With optimal levels of high‑quality protein and restricted phosphorus, this diet supports kidney health without compromising lean muscle mass.

Why Dr Jack recommends this food:

• Clinically proven to support kidney function
• Controlled phosphorus and sodium levels
• Supports long-term renal health

Hill’s Prescription Diet k/d + j/d Mobility Adult Dog Dry Food

This formula offers the benefits of kidney-support nutrition alongside joint health support, making it ideal for older dogs or those with mobility concerns. Rich in omega‑3 fatty acids and clinically proven nutrients for cartilage health, it helps support both kidney and joint function.

Why Dr Jack recommends this food:

• Dual support for kidneys and joints
• Omega‑3 fatty acids for inflammation control
• Designed for ageing and renal-compromised dogs

Royal Canin Veterinary Early Renal Dry Dog Food

Royal Canin Early Renal is designed for dogs showing the early signs of kidney stress. The formula helps maintain kidney function by controlling phosphorus intake and providing a highly digestible nutrient profile that supports appetite and overall wellbeing.

Why Dr Jack recommends this food:

• Helps support early kidney stress
• Balanced nutrition with enhanced palatability
• Suitable for dogs transitioning to renal diets

Royal Canin Veterinary Renal Special Dry Dog Food

Royal Canin Renal Special is formulated for dogs with diagnosed chronic kidney disease. It provides precise levels of protein, phosphorus, and electrolytes to help prolong kidney function and support quality of life. The specialized nutrient blend also helps support hydration and appetite.

Why Dr Jack recommends this food:

• Therapeutic nutrition for CKD management
• Highly digestible formula
• Promotes sustained energy and renal support

Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets NF Kidney Function Wet Dog Food

This wet diet from Purina is tailored for dogs with kidney concerns. Its balanced nutrient profile with controlled phosphorus and high‑quality protein helps reduce strain on the kidneys. The wet texture also supports hydration, which is critical for renal health.

Why Dr Jack recommends this food:

• Supports hydration with wet formula
• Balanced for renal nutrition
• Encourages intake in dogs with low appetite

Hill’s Prescription Diet k/d Kidney Care Adult Dog Wet Food

Hill’s k/d wet kidney diet uses targeted nutrition to support dogs with moderate to advanced kidney disease. With controlled protein and phosphorus, added omega‑3 fatty acids, and antioxidants, it helps slow the progression of kidney decline and supports overall wellbeing.

Why Dr Jack recommends this food:

• Excellent palatability and hydration
• Clinically shown to support kidney health
• Ideal for dogs who prefer wet food

Royal Canin Veterinary Renal Special Wet Dog Food

Royal Canin Renal Special wet food offers kidney-support nutrition in a highly digestible and palatable format. It’s formulated to help dogs with CKD maintain adequate nutrient intake and hydration, making it especially useful for picky eaters or dogs struggling with appetite.

Why Dr Jack recommends this food:

• Highly palatable for poor appetite
• Supports hydration and nutrient absorption
• Clinically formulated for renal challenges

Every dog food in this guide has been selected based on veterinary insight, clinical research, and practical effectiveness in managing kidney disease. We focused on diets that deliver proven results for dogs with chronic kidney disease (CKD), early renal insufficiency, or reduced kidney function due to age or other health conditions.

Our selection process considered the following factors:

Veterinary endorsement: All foods are recommended by vets and meet strict nutritional criteria for renal support.

Proven results: We prioritised diets that have shown clinical improvements in kidney markers, appetite, hydration, and overall wellbeing.

Nutritional quality: Only foods with carefully balanced protein, phosphorus, sodium, and essential fatty acids were included.

Compliance with standards: All products meet or exceed AAFCO, FEDIAF, or Australian Pet Food Manufacturing Standards (AS 5812).

Kidney disease affects the body's ability to filter waste, regulate minerals, and maintain fluid balance. If left unmanaged, it can lead to toxin buildup, loss of appetite, muscle wasting, and reduced quality of life.

A kidney-support diet is one of the most effective tools for slowing the progression of CKD and easing the burden on the kidneys. These diets contain restricted levels of phosphorus, moderate amounts of high-quality protein, and added omega-3 fatty acids to support kidney function and reduce inflammation.

Feeding the right diet helps control symptoms, improve comfort, and prolong your dog’s life. It also helps preserve appetite and maintain energy levels, especially as the disease progresses.

Kidney disease in dogs can have multiple causes. Identifying the underlying issue helps guide treatment and long-term dietary care.

1. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
CKD develops slowly over time and is the most common form of kidney disease in dogs. It is typically age-related or inherited and requires lifelong management.

2. Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)
AKI occurs suddenly and is often caused by toxins, infections, dehydration, or trauma. In some cases, kidney function may recover, but ongoing care and renal support are often needed.

3. Age-Related Decline
As dogs age, kidney function may naturally decline. Even without a specific diagnosis, many senior dogs benefit from early renal support to help maintain overall health.

4. Breed Predispositions
Some breeds are more prone to developing kidney disease. These include Bull Terriers, Cocker Spaniels, Dobermans, and Shih Tzus. For these dogs, early screening and dietary support may be beneficial.

5. Toxin Exposure
Ingesting toxic substances like antifreeze, grapes, raisins, certain medications, or rodenticides can damage the kidneys. Dogs that survive toxin exposure may need long-term kidney support diets.

The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste, balancing fluids, and regulating electrolytes in your dog’s body. When kidney function declines, the body struggles to maintain these vital processes. Diet becomes a crucial part of managing the disease.

Kidney-friendly diets are specially formulated to:

• Limit phosphorus, which can reduce the rate of kidney deterioration
• Provide moderate amounts of high-quality protein to reduce waste byproducts without losing muscle mass
• Improve hydration, especially when wet food is included in the diet
• Include omega-3 fatty acids, which can reduce kidney inflammation and improve blood flow
• Support appetite with highly palatable ingredients to ensure consistent intake

With the right diet and regular veterinary care, dogs with kidney disease can enjoy better comfort, energy, and quality of life.

Not all dog foods are created equal when it comes to supporting kidney function. Prescription renal diets are carefully formulated to meet the specific needs of dogs with CKD or early kidney issues, and they differ significantly from standard maintenance diets.

Here are the key features that set effective kidney-support diets apart:

Low Phosphorus Content
Phosphorus restriction is one of the most important components of a renal diet. Lowering phosphorus helps reduce further damage to the kidneys and is linked to slower disease progression.

Moderate, High-Quality Protein
Dogs with kidney disease don’t need a high-protein diet, but they do still need protein for muscle maintenance and repair. Renal diets use moderate amounts of high-quality protein that produce fewer waste products and are easier on the kidneys.

Controlled Sodium Levels
Managing sodium helps support blood pressure and reduces fluid retention, which can be especially beneficial for dogs with kidney or heart issues.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids
These help reduce inflammation and may improve kidney blood flow. Diets rich in EPA and DHA from fish oil are preferred.

Enhanced Palatability
Dogs with CKD often experience nausea or reduced appetite. High palatability is crucial to encourage consistent intake and maintain calorie and nutrient levels.

Added Antioxidants and B Vitamins
B vitamins are often lost in the urine with kidney disease. Renal diets often include B-complex vitamins and antioxidants to support energy, cell function, and immune health.

Switching to a kidney-support diet is one of the most important steps in managing kidney disease. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your dog’s new food:

Transition Slowly
Introduce the new food gradually over 5 to 7 days. Start with 25% new and 75% old food, and slowly increase the new portion. This helps avoid digestive upset and gives your dog time to adjust to the new taste and texture.

Encourage Appetite
If your dog seems reluctant to eat, try warming up wet food, offering smaller meals more frequently, or mixing in a small amount of prescription renal wet food with dry kibble to boost aroma and moisture.

Stick to the Plan
Feeding non-prescription treats or switching diets can undo the benefits of a renal formula. Speak to your vet before introducing anything new, and choose renal-safe treats or use kibble as rewards.

Monitor Hydration
Always ensure your dog has access to fresh water. Wet food can help increase fluid intake, especially in dogs that don't drink enough.

Supplements can be a valuable part of your dog’s kidney care plan, but only when used correctly and under veterinary guidance. While a prescription kidney diet does most of the heavy lifting, certain supplements can provide targeted support to help slow the progression of chronic kidney disease, reduce symptoms, and improve your dog’s comfort and appetite.

The effectiveness of supplements depends on your dog’s individual condition, bloodwork results, and stage of disease. Some dogs benefit from added omega-3s or phosphate binders, while others may need antioxidant or probiotic support to manage toxin levels and maintain gut health.

Supplements are not a cure, and they are not a replacement for veterinary care or prescription food. However, when chosen carefully and used alongside a complete kidney support diet, they can make a real difference in your dog’s wellbeing.

These vet‑recommended supplements are available on Vets Love Pets and are commonly used to support dogs with kidney disease.

Natural Animal Solutions Omega Oil 3, 6 & 9

This plant‑based omega oil blend is designed to support kidney function by helping to reduce inflammation, improve skin and coat health, and maintain cardiovascular wellbeing. Omega‑3 fatty acids are known to help slow the progression of kidney disease by promoting healthy blood flow to the kidneys and supporting immune balance.

Vetoquinol Ipakitine Renal Support Powder for Dogs and Cats

Ipakitine is a trusted phosphate binder and renal supplement often recommended for dogs in the early to mid stages of kidney disease. It helps reduce the absorption of phosphorus from food, which may help protect kidney function over time. The powder form is easy to mix with wet or dry food.

Synbiotic D‑C Capsules

These veterinary‑strength probiotic capsules contain beneficial bacteria and prebiotics that help support gut health, which becomes increasingly important in dogs with kidney disease. A healthy gut can help reduce the buildup of toxins and support immune regulation.

In some cases, dogs with kidney disease may also require prescription medications to manage symptoms or slow disease progression. These medications are typically used alongside a renal diet and may be recommended based on blood test results and disease stage.

Prescription kidney support medications may help with:

• Managing high blood pressure
• Reducing protein loss through the kidneys
• Controlling nausea and improving appetite
• Supporting hydration and electrolyte balance

Your vet will determine whether medication is necessary and which option is most appropriate for your dog’s condition.

Pet parents can conveniently access vet-prescribed kidney support medications through Vets Love Pets once a prescription has been provided.

Kidney disease is a chronic condition, but with the right care, many dogs live happy, comfortable lives for years after diagnosis. Consistency and veterinary support are key.

Here’s how to support your dog long-term:

• Feed only a vet-approved kidney-support diet
• Schedule regular checkups and bloodwork to monitor kidney values
• Keep up with any prescribed medications or supplements
• Maintain hydration, especially in warmer months
• Watch for appetite changes, vomiting, or increased urination, and report them to your vet promptly

Combined with proper nutrition and early intervention, ongoing care can significantly improve your dog’s quality of life.

How long does it take for a kidney diet to show results?
Most dogs show improved energy, appetite, and blood values within a few weeks of starting a kidney diet. Your vet will typically recheck bloodwork within 4 to 8 weeks to monitor progress.

Can I feed kidney support food without a prescription?
Most effective renal diets require a vet prescription. However, early-stage kidney support diets like Royal Canin Early Renal may be available without a script. Always ask your vet before making changes.

Is wet or dry food better for dogs with kidney disease?
Both are effective. Wet food increases hydration and palatability, while dry food is convenient and can be more calorie-dense. Many pet owners use a mix of both for optimal results.

Can I give my dog treats if they’re on a kidney diet?
Yes, but they should be low in phosphorus and sodium. Many prescription diets offer compatible treats, or you can use part of their kibble as a reward.

What if my dog won’t eat their kidney diet?
Work with your vet to troubleshoot. Options include switching between brands, trying a wet version, warming the food, or using appetite stimulants if needed.

Managing kidney disease can feel overwhelming, but the right diet can make a meaningful difference in your dog’s comfort and longevity. Prescription renal diets, combined with targeted supplements and consistent care, are proven to help dogs with CKD live longer, happier lives.

Whether your dog is in the early stages or facing more advanced kidney challenges, choosing a vet-approved kidney support food is one of the best steps you can take. With patience, regular vet checkups, and the right nutrition, your dog can continue to enjoy life by your side.

This article was written by Dr. Jack Ayerbe