From Hydration to Health: The Vet’s Guide to Kidney and Urinary Health in Dogs

Dogs are cherished for their loyalty and companionship, yet they are equally susceptible to kidney and urinary issues that can silently compromise their health and vitality. These conditions can significantly affect their quality of life, often with subtle signs that might not immediately alert even the most observant owners.

Recognising the importance of maintaining kidney and urinary tract health in dogs is essential. This guide will cover the early signs of disease, delve into diagnostic processes, and explore effective treatment options. We'll also discuss the role of diet and hydration, alongside other preventative measures, helping dog owners manage these conditions to ensure their furry friends enjoy healthier, happier lives.

What is Kidney Disease in Dogs?

The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste from the blood, regulating blood pressure, balancing electrolytes, and maintaining hydration. They are essential in the production of certain hormones and help in the formation of red blood cells.

Kidney disease in dogs refers to the condition where the kidneys fail to adequately filter waste from the blood, which can accumulate to toxic levels. This can be a gradual onset (chronic) or sudden (acute), and it severely affects the dog's quality of life.

What is Urinary Disease in Dogs?

The urinary tract includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. It functions to remove waste and excess fluid from the body, playing a key role in hydration and electrolyte balance.

Urinary disease encompasses a range of conditions that can affect any part of the urinary tract, including infections, bladder stones, incontinence, and cancers. These conditions can cause discomfort, pain, and more serious health issues if left untreated.

Kidney and urinary diseases in dogs can stem from various sources, significantly affecting their health and quality of life. Understanding these causes can help in early detection and management.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Often stemming from an age-related decline in kidney function, CKD progresses slowly and may be managed effectively with vigilant care to slow its advancement.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): These are commonly seen in dogs with incontinence or those experiencing external infections like vulval dermatitis. Dogs with diabetes are particularly susceptible, as the presence of glucose in their urine creates a favourable environment for bacterial growth.

Bladder Stones: These not only cause pain and urinary obstruction but can also exacerbate conditions like cystitis, an inflammation of the bladder wall.

Acute Kidney Disease: Although less common, this severe condition requires prompt and aggressive treatment to manage its rapid progression.

How do these conditions progress?

Chronic kidney disease in dogs generally progresses slowly, losing kidney function over time, and can often be managed with appropriate care to slow its progression. Conversely, acute kidney disease, if caught and treated early, may be improved. 

Urinary tract infections can escalate if untreated, potentially leading to kidney disease as the infection spreads. This damage is often irreversible, making the preservation of remaining kidney function critical for the dog’s survival. Regular veterinary checks are essential to monitor these conditions and adjust treatment plans as necessary.

Recognising the signs of kidney and urinary diseases early can be crucial in managing these conditions effectively. Hear what Dr Jane thinks about the main signs of Kidney & Urinary Disease in Dogs:

"Early signs of kidney and urinary tract issues in dogs can vary widely but often include increased water consumption and urination, difficulty holding urine overnight, and frequent, painful, or bloody urination. Dogs with urinary tract issues might also urinate in unusual places, such as inside the house or on the bed. More severe symptoms can lead to pain, vomiting, weight loss, and anorexia, which can be indicative of advanced disease."

- Dr Jane Miller BSc, BVSc (hons)

Identifying Additional Symptoms

Increased Thirst and Urination (Polydipsia and Polyuria): Dogs affected by kidney or urinary diseases often exhibit a marked increase in both thirst and the frequency of urination. This change can be a key indicator of the body's inability to properly regulate fluid and waste.

Difficulty Urinating (Stranguria): Some dogs may show signs of discomfort and exert considerable effort while trying to urinate, only producing a small amount of urine. This symptom is indicative of potential obstructions or infections in the urinary tract.

Blood in Urine (Hematuria): The presence of blood in the urine is a concerning symptom that often points to infections or the presence of stones in the urinary tract, both of which can cause significant irritation and damage.

General Discomfort or Pain: Dogs suffering from kidney or urinary issues might exhibit signs of pain that can sometimes be mistaken for other ailments, such as back pain, or may simply seem to be feeling unwell without specific localised pain.

Prostatitis (for male dogs): This condition is particularly painful and can lead to significant distress in male dogs. It often results in severe discomfort and behavioural changes due to the inflammation of the prostate gland.

Early detection is key to effective management and can significantly improve outcomes for dogs with kidney or urinary tract diseases.

Effective management of kidney and urinary diseases in dogs hinges on accurate and timely diagnosis, followed by targeted treatment strategies tailored to the stage and specifics of the disease.

Diagnosis of Kidney/Urinary Disease in Dogs

The diagnostic process for kidney and urinary diseases involves several critical tests that provide a comprehensive understanding of a dog's renal health:

Blood Tests: These are fundamental for measuring levels of urea, phosphus and creatinine, which indicate kidney function; elevated levels can suggest significant renal impairment.

Anemia Screening: Detects anemia, a common condition in kidney disease due to insufficient erythropoietin production by the kidneys.

Urinalysis: Evaluates the urine for signs of infection, inflammation, and inadequate concentration, indicating the kidneys’ ability to filter and concentrate urine.

Urine Culture and Sensitivity Test: Identifies bacteria causing urinary infections and determines their antibiotic sensitivities, guiding effective treatment.

Ultrasound Imaging: Provides a visual assessment of the kidneys and urinary tract, helping to identify structural abnormalities or diseases.

X-rays: Useful for detecting stones in the kidneys and bladder, which are critical factors in urinary health management.

Regular visits to the veterinarian are essential for the early detection and management of kidney and urinary diseases, helping to ensure better outcomes for affected dogs.

Treatment approaches for kidney and urinary diseases in dogs vary significantly between acute and chronic conditions, each requiring a specific set of interventions designed to manage symptoms and slow disease progression:

Acute Renal Failure

Immediate Fluid Therapy: Vital for rehydrating the dog and flushing out toxins that accumulate due to reduced kidney function.

Blood Pressure Management: Essential for preventing further damage to the kidneys and supporting overall cardiovascular health.

Infection and Inflammation Control: Aggressive treatment of any underlying infections or inflammations that can exacerbate kidney issues.

Chronic Renal Failure

Specialised Diet Management: Feeding diets formulated specifically for kidney health, which are lower in protein and phosphorus but ensure high-quality nutritional content.

Consistent Hydration Monitoring and Management: Keeping the dog well-hydrated is crucial to support kidney function and prevent further decline.

Regular Blood Pressure Checks: Monitoring and managing blood pressure to avoid complications associated with chronic kidney disease.

Selective Medication Use: Carefully choose medications to avoid those that might burden the kidneys further.

Given the complexity of renal transplants and their variable success rates, the focus remains on managing symptoms and maintaining quality of life through these comprehensive treatment strategies.

Ensuring the overall health of your dog involves preventing kidney and urinary diseases through several effective strategies. Proper hydration, a well-balanced diet, and the appropriate use of supplements are key factors that contribute significantly to maintaining kidney and urinary tract health.

A well-balanced diet is critical for supporting the health of your dog’s kidneys and urinary system. Choosing the right food, such as Hill's Prescription Diet k/d Kidney Care or Royal Canin Veterinary Renal Dog Food, is vital as these diets are specially formulated to support kidney function and manage kidney diseases effectively. For older dogs that might be dealing with joint issues like Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD), combining kidney support with joint care through products like Hill's Prescription Diet Canine k/d Kidney + j/d Mobility can provide dual benefits.

Ensuring a mix of wet and dry food in your dog's diet can significantly increase their water intake, which is essential for both kidney function and urinary health. This is particularly crucial for dogs prone to bladder stones, as certain prescription diets are designed to manage and prevent these conditions by promoting urine dilution and maintaining an optimal urinary pH. 

Additionally, for dogs experiencing stress-related bladder issues, choosing diets that support urinary health can help mitigate these problems effectively.

Maintaining proper hydration is essential for kidney and urinary health. Increased hydration can help manage and prevent disease by ensuring that the urinary system functions efficiently. Here are 3 tips to enhance your dog's water intake:

Supplements can also play a role in supporting urinary health. Products like Cystopro Urinary Capsules for Dogs are formulated to aid in managing urinary tract issues in dogs. Supplements can help maintain bladder health, support the protective barrier of the bladder, and ensure proper urinary pH, which is critical in preventing stone formation and infections.

In addition to diet, hydration, and supplements, several other measures are important for preventing kidney and urinary diseases:

Quality Food and Fresh Water: Consistently providing access to fresh, clean water and feeding your dog high-quality, nutrient-rich food are foundational steps in promoting kidney and urinary health. Fresh water aids in flushing out toxins and maintaining proper kidney function, while quality food supports overall health and prevents nutritional deficiencies.

Manage Incontinence and Infections: Promptly addressing issues like urinary incontinence and recurrent infections is crucial. Effective management of these conditions helps prevent the ascent of bacteria into the upper urinary tract, which can lead to more serious kidney complications. Regular veterinary check-ups and appropriate treatments are essential for maintaining urinary health.

Limit Certain Medications: Some medications can be particularly taxing on the kidneys, especially when used long-term. It is important to consult with your veterinarian about the risks and benefits of any medication, particularly for dogs with existing kidney concerns, to avoid exacerbating kidney damage.

Manage Other Health Conditions: Diseases such as diabetes and Cushing’s disease can increase a dog's susceptibility to urinary tract infections and kidney stress. Managing these conditions through appropriate medical treatment and lifestyle adjustments can significantly reduce the risk and prevent further complications.

Arthritis Management: For dogs with arthritis, it's crucial to ensure they can fully empty their bladders. Arthritis can make normal squatting and posturing difficult, leading to incomplete bladder emptying and increased risk of urinary infections and stone formation. Regular, gentle exercise and appropriate pain management can aid in maintaining proper urinary function.

Avoid Nephrotoxic Substances: Avoiding exposure to substances known to be toxic to the kidneys is critical. Common nephrotoxic substances include grapes, raisins, and certain medications. Keeping these substances out of reach and monitoring your dog’s environment can help prevent accidental ingestion and potential kidney damage.

By following these guidelines and working closely with your veterinarian, you can significantly reduce the risk of kidney and urinary diseases in your pets, ensuring they lead healthier, happier lives.

We hope this guide helps you better understand kidney and urinary health in dogs. By recognising symptoms early and using effective treatments and prevention strategies, you can greatly improve your dog's quality of life. With this knowledge, you can confidently care for your dog's health and wellness.

This article was written by Dr Jane Miller