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Nutrition for Dogs with Chronic Kidney Disease

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Nutrition for Dogs with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

Dogs with kidney disease need special diets in order to stay healthy. A special health-formulated diet that is high in protein and low in phosphorus is best for dogs with kidney disease. There are many commercial dog foods that are specifically designed for dogs with kidney disease. You can also make your own diet for your dog by using recipes that are available online.

What special food does my dog need exactly?

A reduced protein diet with moderate fat and low carbohydrates is ideal for dogs with kidney disease. The main goal of this type of diet is to help the kidneys function properly by reducing the amount of work they have to do.

What is Chronic Kidney Disease?

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is the most prevalent dog kidney condition affecting about 3.74% of all dog population. The kidneys are responsible for removing pollutants from the blood and expelling them in the urine; however, in dogs with chronic kidney disease, waste products will accumulate in their circulation as the filtering process breaks down.

What causes kidney disease in dogs?

There are many possible causes of kidney disease in dogs, including:

– Congenital defects

– Infections

– Autoimmune diseases

– Cancer

– Toxins

– Trauma

How do I know if my dog has kidney disease?

The most common signs of kidney disease in dogs are increased thirst and urination, weight loss, and decreased appetite. However, these signs can be caused by other conditions as well, so it is important to take your dog to the vet for a diagnosis.

How is kidney disease treated in dogs?

There is no cure for chronic kidney disease, but treatment can help to improve your dog’s quality of life and extend their life expectancy. Treatment options include:

– Diet change: As mentioned above, a special diet is essential for dogs with kidney disease. Your vet can help you to choose the right food for your dog.

– supplements: Supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids can help to reduce inflammation in the kidneys.

– medications: There are many different medications that can be used to treat the symptoms of kidney disease. Your vet will work with you to find the right medication for your dog.

What is the prognosis for dogs with kidney disease?

The prognosis for dogs with chronic kidney disease varies depending on the severity of the condition. Some dogs may only require minor changes to their diet and lifestyle, while others may need more aggressive treatment. In general, the earlier the condition is diagnosed, the better the prognosis.

If you think your dog may have kidney disease, make an appointment with your vet as soon as possible. With early diagnosis and treatment, many dogs can live long

Managing CKD in dogs:

To manage CKD in dogs, it is important to;

  1. Reduce any fluid and mineral build-up in the body by feeding a low sodium diet
  2. Control phosphorus levels by feeding a food that is naturally low or supplemented with a phosphate binder
  3. Manage anemia through supplementation with iron
  4. Maintain hydration
  5. Provide essential fatty acids
  6. Do not forget to provide high-quality proteins
  7. Monitor calorie intake

A healthy diet is a very important part of managing chronic kidney disease in dogs. Dogs with kidney disease need to eat a special diet that is high in protein and low in phosphorus. There are many commercial dog foods that are specifically designed for dogs with kidney disease. You can also make your own diet for your dog by using recipes that are available online.

Diets are formulated to help dogs with CKD 

  • Hill’s Prescription Diet,
  • Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Canine Renal Support,
  • Purina® ProPlan Veterinary Diet NF Kidney Function, and
  • Rayne Clinical Nutrition Adult Health-RSS

How do nutritional requirements differ for dogs with CKD?

Water:

Impaired kidneys are not effective at excreting waste from the body through urine and so dogs with CKD often have a build-up of toxins in their blood. This can make them feel very unwell and can lead to dehydration. It is important that dogs with CKD drink plenty of water to help flush out these toxins and keep their bodies hydrated.

You can encourage your dog to drink more water by adding it to their food or putting a bowl of water in their cage. You may also want to add a little bit of salt to their diet as this will make them thirstier and encourage them to drink more.

Protein:

Dogs with CKD need a high protein diet as this helps to prevent muscle wasting and provides the amino acids that are needed for repair and maintenance of body tissues.

It is important to choose a protein source that is easy for the kidneys to process. Good sources of protein for dogs with CKD include chicken, turkey, fish, and cottage cheese.

Many reputable online publications including the VCA Blog made the case that protein slows down the progression of CKD by decreasing Inflammation. Less protein means less excretion and less work for the kidney. VCA recommends a range of 14 to 20% on dry matter basis for dogs with CKD. This other study by Orijen recommended protein amounts not exceeding 18%.

Phosphorus:

Too much phosphorus in the diet can cause damage to the kidneys and so it is important to limit phosphorus intake in dogs with CKD. Foods that are high in phosphorus include red meat, organ meats, dairy products, and some fish.

The optimum phosphorus level on a dry matter basis for dogs with chronic kidney disease is 0.2 to 0.5 percent. Since the phosphorus content is determined by the protein content, it’s impossible to get these low amounts of phosphorus without limiting protein intake.

Fats:

Dogs with CKD need a diet that is high in healthy fats as these help to maintain energy levels and support the immune system. Good sources of healthy fats for dogs with CKD include fish oil, olive oil, and flaxseed oil.

Sodium:

Sodium is a type of salt that can cause fluid retention in dogs with CKD. It is important to limit sodium intake by avoiding foods that are high in sodium such as processed meats, cheeses, and table salt.

Omega-3 fatty acids:Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of healthy fat that can help to reduce inflammation in the body. They are also known to be protective against heart disease. Good sources of omega-3 fatty acids for dogs with CKD include fish oil, flaxseed oil, and chia seeds.

Vitamins and minerals:

Dogs with CKD may need supplements of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B, Vitamin D, and calcium. Your veterinarian can advise you on which supplements your dog needs.

What research says:

Dogs with CKD have decreased dietary protein appears to slow the progression of CKD by decreasing the workload on the kidneys to excrete protein waste products. Less protein also means less need for the excretion of the protein itself through the filtration mechanism of the kidney, which helps preserve kidney function.

In separate studies by Devaux C, Polzin DJ, Brown SA, Finco DR and Bartges JW, restricting protein in the diet of dogs with CKD slowed the progression of azotemia and reduced proteinuria.

In a 1992 Study by  Finco DR, et al., scholars founds that protein restriction did have positive impacts on dogs with CKD but they found that phosphorus restriction was really the nutrient that slows ongoing renal damage.

So is it safe to restrict Protein or Phosphorus intake?

As per the studies described above, it appears that both may help, but phosphorus restriction may be more beneficial.

A study done in 2016 found that a moderately restricted phosphorus diet (0.5 grams per kilogram of body weight per day) improved the quality of life and survival time in dogs with CKD without negatively affecting their appetite or body weight.

Another study done in 2017 found that a diet with reduced phosphorus and sodium, as well as increased omega-3 fatty acids, improved the quality of life in dogs with CKD.

It is important to speak to your veterinarian before starting your dog on a restricted diet, as they can advise you on the best course of action for your dog.

What makes a great diet for a dog with CKD?

A great diet for a dog with CKD should be high in healthy fats, low in sodium, protein and phosphorus. Omega-3 fatty acids are also beneficial for dogs with CKD. Supplements of vitamins and minerals may also be needed. Your veterinarian can advise you on which supplements your dog needs.

Below is a breakdown of nutrients amounts you should aim for to feed your dog with CKD:

  1. Protein: 14 to 20%
  2. Phosphorus: 0.2 to 0.5%
  3. Sodium – Less than 0.3%
  4. Omega 3: 0.4% to 2.5%

FAQs

Q: What is the ideal protein and Phosphorus level for a dog with CKD?

A: The ideal protein level for a dog with CKD is 14 to 20% and the ideal phosphorus level for a dog with CKD is 0.2 to 0.5%.

Q: How can I effectively care for a dog with CKD?

A: There are a few things you can do to effectively care for a dog with CKD:

-Give them a diet that is high in healthy fats, low in sodium, protein and phosphorus.

-Omega-3 fatty acids are also beneficial for dogs with CKD.

-Supplements of vitamins and minerals may also be needed.

-Your veterinarian can advise you on which supplements your dog needs.

Q: What are some of the best foods to feed a dog with CKD?

A: Some of the best foods to feed a dog with CKD are:

-Fish oil

-Flaxseed oil

-Chia seeds

-Vegetables

-Fruits

-Whole grains

-Low sodium dog food

-Moderately restricted phosphorus diet

-Reduced phosphorus and sodium diet

-Increased omega-3 fatty acids diet

Q: What should I avoid feeding my dog with CKD?

A: You should avoid feeding your dog with CKD:

-High protein Dog food

-Foods high in phosphorus

-Foods high in sodium

-Unhealthy fats

-Processed foods

Low Glycemic Index Dog Food

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Best Low Glycemic Index Dog Food

The nutrients in carbohydrates are an important source of energy for your dog. But not all carbs are created equal. The glycemic index (GI) is a way of ranking carbohydrates on how they affect blood sugar levels. Foods with a high GI raise blood sugar levels quickly, while those with a low GI raise blood sugar levels more slowly.

What is a glycemic index?

The glycemic index (GI) is a measure of how a carbohydrate-containing food raises blood glucose. Foods are ranked based on how much they raise blood sugar in the two or three hours after eating.

The glycemic index can range from 0 to 100. A food with a high GI score (70 or above) raises blood sugar more than a food with a medium GI score (56 to 69). A food with a low GI score (55 or below) raises blood sugar less.

The glycemic index was developed in the 1980s as a way to rank how human food based on the effect it had on blood glucose levels. The glycemic load is calculated by multiplying the glycemic index of a food by its carbohydrate content.

So it is relevant to pets?

The humanization of pets has led to an increased interest in the way that different foods affect our pets. The glycemic index is one tool that is being used to evaluate the effect of food on pets.

What is Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia is a condition that occurs when blood sugar levels drop too low. Low blood sugar can be caused by a number of things, including skipping meals, fasting, or strenuous exercise. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include confusion, anxiety, sweating, and tremors. Hypoglycemia can be dangerous if it is not treated quickly.

How Glycemic index is determined:

There are a few different methods that can be used to determine the glycemic index of a food. The most common method is the glucose tolerance test. In this test, a person eats food and then has their blood sugar levels checked at regular intervals over the next two to three hours.

The results of these tests are then used to create a curve that shows how the food affects blood sugar levels over time. From this curve, the glycemic index can be determined.

The other methods used to determine the glycemic index are the insulin response test and the glycemic load test. These tests are not as common as the glucose tolerance test, but they can provide additional information about how a food affects blood sugar levels.

What is the difference between glycemic index and glycemic load?

The glycemic index is a measure of how much a food raises blood sugar levels in the two or three hours after eating. The glycemic load is a measure of how much food raises blood sugar levels over the course of a day.

The glycemic load takes into account the amount of carbohydrates in a food and the glycemic index of those carbohydrates. For example, a food with a high glycemic index but a low carbohydrate content would have a low glycemic load.

What are the benefits of low glycemic index foods?

-Are slowly digested and absorbed, so they don’t cause sudden spikes in blood sugar levels.

-May help control diabetes by keeping blood sugar levels from rising too high after a meal. One study found that obese dogs that received the pea-based diet with a GI score of 29 had improved insulin response, suggesting improved management of blood glucose levels.

-May help you lose weight by making you feel fuller longer and preventing overeating.

-May reduce the risk of heart disease by helping to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Glycemic Index in Humans and Dogs:

Diabetes usually found in dogs is Type 1 Diabetes which is caused by genetic and auto-immune diseases and not obesity. This explains why a low-GI diet for dogs may not be as effective in preventing diabetes as it is in humans. In a study done with 10 beagle dogs, it was shown that there was no difference in peak post-prandial glucose and insulin levels between high and low-GI diets. The study concluded that the glycemic index may not be as relevant in dogs as it is in humans when managing diabetes.

In fact a lot of the low-glycemic pet foods available are laden with low-glycemic carbohydrates in amounts that vastly outweigh the total amounts of protein or fat that they contain. The result is often a very carbohydrate-rich pet food but is still labeled as “low glycemic” or even “grain-free”. In addition to this the type of carbohydrates (oligosaccharides) used in these hefty amounts decreases the overall digestibility of the diet because just like they are advertised – they digest slowly (or incompletely).

Be careful with ‘low-glycemic index labels in pet food:

When evaluating dog food brands with a low-glycemic index, it is also important to understand the carbs used in the recipe. Some brands have low-glycemic carbs in amounts that vastly outweigh the total amounts of protein or fat. Others have carbs that are low-glycemic but not very digestible.

When the carbs amounts are high and the carb source is not very digestible (or has a low bioavailability), the food can actually cause blood sugar spikes – even though it may be advertised as “low-glycemic.”

Low glycemic index dog recipes are not always the best:

If the GI is low, but the food quality is poor, it’s essential not to solely rely on the “low glycemic index” label when selecting a pet food. Instead, seek dog meals that have a healthy mix of protein, fat, and carbohydrates and that are made with high-quality ingredients.

There are many different types of dog food that have a low glycemic index. Some examples include:

-Raw diets

-Prescription diets

-Home-cooked diets

-Foods made with slowly digestible carbs like oats, barley, and sweet potatoes.

When it comes to raw and home-cooked diets, it is important to make sure that the ingredients are high quality and properly balanced. Raw diets should be made with muscle meat, organs, bones, and a small amount of fruits and vegetables. Home-cooked diets should be made with lean meats, healthy fats, and slow-cooking carbs like sweet potatoes or oats.

Ranking of Different Dog Food Diets’ Glycemic Index:

Foods are ranked on a scale of 1 to 100, with Low GI Foods having a rating of 55 or less, and High GI Foods having one of 70 or more. A rating range of 56 to 60 is considered Medium GI foods.

One 2012 study comparing the glycemic index of barley, corn, peas and rice – four common pet food ingredients found peas to have the lowest glycemic index. Peas has a glycemic index of 13.3, followed by corn (54.5), rice (64.8) and barley (70.3).

This means that peas are slowly digested and absorbed, so they don’t cause sudden spikes in blood sugar levels. This is good for dogs with diabetes or who are overweight, as it helps to keep blood sugar levels from rising too high after a meal.

Peas, chickpeas, lentils, and beans all have oligosaccharides, which are starch types that digest more slowly than conventional starches and are thus not believed to cause blood sugar levels to rise.

Rice was found to have the highest glycemic index carbohydrates, which means that they are rapidly digested and absorbed. This can cause spikes in blood sugar levels, which can lead to overeating and weight gain. The study concurred with another study done in 2015 that found the following GI figures for peas, corn, barley and white rice.

What are some examples of low glycemic index foods?

Some examples of low glycemic index foods include:

-Oats

-Barley

-Buckwheat

-Beans

-Lentils

– peas

-most fruits and vegetables.

15 LGI Foods & Recipes ideas | low glycemic foods, low gi foods, low glycemic diet

Glycemic Research Institute(GRI)

Glycemic Research Institute(GRI) is a nonprofit organization that funds and conducts independent scientific research on the glycemic index and its health implications. It was founded in 1983.

Glycemic Research Institute has not set the maximum acceptable value for a pet food’s glycemic load but GRI offers certifications for pet foods that have low glycemic index. For a pet food brand to qualify to be certified as having low glycemic index, the absence of corn in the diet is required as it has a very negative glycemic response.

Read more about how pet food are evaluated by GRI, including their application process and their annual awards.

Hyperglycemia produces oxidative stress, which has been implicated in the development of diabetes and its complications. Low glycemic index diets have been shown to help control blood sugar levels and reduce oxidative stress.

The GRI certification is voluntary, and there is a fee for brands to apply for the certification. The Glycemic Research Institute does not test products itself, but relies on data from independently conducted clinical trials.

So far, three pet food brands have been certified by the Glycemic Research Institute as having low glycemic index:

-Nutrience Subzero

-Zignature Kangaroo Formula

-Canidae Pure Meadow Senior Dog Food

-Orijen

The last time GRI updated its website in 2011-12, 8 pet food brands by Champion Petfoods under the Orijen brand were named as the Best Pet Food of the Year as shown in the snapshot below;

They included;

  1. Orijen Puppy Large
  2. Orijen All-Life Stages Fish Recipe
  3. Orijen All-Life Stages Red Meat Recipe
  4. Orijen Senior All Breed Recipe

12 Best Low Glycemic Index Dog Food:

I searched the internet and used our chewy products database to come up with a list of quality dog food with a low glycemic index ideal for preventing hypoglycemia. I also got a helpful list on the PetFlow site.

Below is a list of the best low-glycemic index dog food or the best dog food for hypoglycemia in the market today:

  1. Merrick Grain Free Grammy’s Pot Pie Canned Dog Food
  2. Nulo FreeStyle Grain Free Trout & Sweet Potato Senior Recipe Dry Dog Food
  3. Nulo Freestyle Cod & Lentils Recipe Grain-Free Adult Trim Dry Dog Food, 26-lb bag
  4. Nulo Freestyle Limited+ Alaska Pollock & Lentils Recipe Puppy & Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food, 24-lb bag
  5. Nulo Freestyle Salmon & Peas Recipe Grain-Free Dry Puppy Food, 26-lb bag
  6. Merrick Grain Free Cowboy Cookout Canned Dog Food
  7. ORIJEN Regional Red Freeze Dried Dog Food
  8. Farmina N&D Natural & Delicious Low Grain Medium & Maxi Puppy Lamb & Blueberry Dry Dog Food
  9. ORIJEN Adult Freeze-Dried Dog Food
  10. Merrick Grain Free Turducken Canned Dog Food
  11. Merrick Grain Free Thanksgiving Day Dinner Canned Dog Food
  12. ORIJEN Grain Free Tundra Adult Freeze Dried Dog Food

6 Low-Glycemic Index-Certified Dog Food Brands

According to the GRI website, the below brands have been certified as they met the requirements for the low GI certification;

  1. Merrick Before Grain Dog Food and Canned Canine Dog Food
  2. Nulo FreeStyle Dry Dog Food
  3. Orijen Grain-free and Freeze-dried diets
  4. Farmina Pet Foods
  5. Grandma Lucy’s
  6. Dave’s Pet Food – Dave’s 95% Premium Chicken & Chicken Liver Recipe Canned Dog Food

All individual products are listed by Pet Flow here.

Note that the site was last updated several years ago and this list could be long now. Read more about low-GI food here.

Here is a list of all food ingredients including stevia certified as having low GI.

Oregon State University compiled over 100 different foods and listed them with their Glycemic Index and Load. I have used their tables in the next sections.

Glycemic Index for Vegetables Products

Potatoes have the highest GI score among vegetables. Some food with low glycemic index scores include carrots, Parsnips, and yams.

VEGETABLESGlycemic index (glucose = 100)Serving size (grams)Glycemic load per serving
Green peas, average51804
Carrots, average35802
Parsnips52804
Baked russet potato, average11115033
Boiled white potato, average8215021
Instant mashed potato, average8715017
Sweet potato, average7015022
Yam, average5415020

Glycemic Index for Bean and Nuts

Most beans and nuts such as cashews, soybeans, peanuts, chickpeas, baked beans, and all other types of beans and nuts have a low glycemic index. In the list below, the highest GI is that of baked beans at just 40. Peanuts have the lowest GI score of 7.

BEANS AND NUTSGlycemic index (glucose = 100)Serving size (grams)Glycemic load per serving
Baked beans, average401506
Blackeye peas, average3315010
Black beans301507
Chickpeas, average101503
Chickpeas, canned in brine381509
Navy beans, average311509
Kidney beans, average291507
Lentils, average291505
Soy beans, average151501
Cashews, salted27503
Peanuts, average7500

Glycemic Index for Fruits:

Watermelon has the highest GI of 72 with Raisin and Bananas following close by with a GI score of 64 and 62, respectively. Some low-glycemic index fruits include apples, prunes, pears, and peaches.

FRUITSGlycemic index (glucose = 100)Serving size (grams)Glycemic load per serving
Apple, average391206
Banana, ripe6212016
Dates, dried426018
Grapefruit251203
Grapes, average5912011
Orange, average401204
Peach, average421205
Peach, canned in light syrup401205
Pear, average381204
Pear, canned in pear juice431205
Prunes, pitted296010
Raisins646028
Watermelon721204

Glycemic Index for Grains in Dog Food:

Barley has the lowest glycemic index score of 28 with whole wheat kernels following closely with a score of 30. Some grains with high GI include white rice scoring 89, sweet corn scoring 60, quiona scoring 53. See the full table with score below;

GRAINSGlycemic index (glucose = 100)Serving size (grams)Glycemic load per serving
Pearled barley, average2815012
Sweet corn on the cob, average6015020
Couscous, average651509
Quinoa5315013
White rice, average8915043
Quick cooking white basmati6715028
Brown rice, average5015016
Converted, white rice (Uncle Ben’s®)3815014
Whole wheat kernels, average305011
Bulgur, average4815012

Glycemic Index for Bakery Products and Bevarages

FOODGlycemic index (glucose = 100)Serving size (grams)Glycemic load per serving
BAKERY PRODUCTS AND BREADS
Banana cake, made with sugar476014
Banana cake, made without sugar556012
Sponge cake, plain466317
Vanilla cake made from packet mix with vanilla frosting (Betty Crocker)4211124
Apple, made with sugar446013
Apple, made without sugar48609
Waffles, Aunt Jemima (Quaker Oats)763510
Bagel, white, frozen727025
Baguette, white, plain953015
Coarse barley bread, 75-80% kernels, average34307
Hamburger bun61309
Kaiser roll733012
Pumpernickel bread56307
50% cracked wheat kernel bread583012
White wheat flour bread713010
Wonder™ bread, average733010
Whole wheat bread, average71309
100% Whole Grain™ bread (Natural Ovens)51307
Pita bread, white683010
Corn tortilla525012
Wheat tortilla30508

BEVERAGES
Coca Cola®, average63250 mL16
Fanta®, orange soft drink68250 mL23
Lucozade®, original (sparkling glucose drink)95±10250 mL40
Apple juice, unsweetened, average44250 mL30
Cranberry juice cocktail (Ocean Spray®)68250 mL24
Gatorade78250 mL12
Orange juice, unsweetened50250 mL12
Tomato juice, canned38250 mL4
BREAKFAST CEREALS AND RELATED PRODUCTS
All-Bran™, average553012
Coco Pops™, average773020
Cornflakes™, average933023
Cream of Wheat™ (Nabisco)6625017
Cream of Wheat™, Instant (Nabisco)7425022
Grapenuts™, average753016
Muesli, average663016
Oatmeal, average5525013
Instant oatmeal, average8325030
Puffed wheat, average803017
Raisin Bran™ (Kellogg’s)613012
Special K™ (Kellogg’s)693014

Worst Dog Food for Heart Disease

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Millions of American dogs are suffering from a serious health problem that many pet owners are not even aware of. I’m talking about heart disease, specifically dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). And the root of this problem is most likely poor-quality dog food. In this blog post, I’ll be discussing the worst dog foods for heart disease and why you should avoid them at all costs.

According to various literature on pet care, cardiology for pets really took off in the 80s with significant interest in the 90s and has progressed significantly with great studies being released over the past 5 years.

In 2017, a very impactful study led by Dr. Lisa M. Freeman of Tufts University was published in the prestigious Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA). The study found a potential link between grain-free diets and a type of canine heart disease called dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).

Worst Dog Food for Heart Disease DCM

  1. 1. Nutro Max Adult Dog Food: This food is marketed as being “nutrient-rich” and “heart-healthy.” However, it actually contains very little nutrition and can actually contribute to heart disease. The first ingredient is cornmeal, which is a cheap filler with no nutritional value. It also contains chicken by-product meal, which is a low-quality source of protein that can actually be harmful to your dog’s health. Finally, it contains propylene glycol, which is a toxic substance that has been linked to heart disease.
  2. 2. Iams Proactive Health Smart Puppy Dry Dog Food: This food is marketed as being “nutritionally complete and balanced.” However, it actually contains several harmful ingredients. The first ingredient is corn, which is a cheap filler with no nutritional value. The second ingredient is chicken by-product meal, which is a low-quality source of protein that can actually be harmful to your dog’s health. Finally, it contains artificial colors and flavors, which can be toxic to your dog’s health.

As a result, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) began investigating the potential link between DCM and grain-free diets, as well as diets that contain legumes such as peas or lentils.

What is Dog heart disease?

To understand the potential link between diet and DCM, it’s important to first understand what DCM is. DCM is a condition that results in an enlarged heart and can eventually lead to heart failure. It’s most common in large breed dogs, but it can affect any dog of any breed or size.

The first thing to understand is what exactly DCM is. DCM is a disease of the heart muscle that results in an enlarged heart and can lead to congestive heart failure. Symptoms of DCM include lethargy, coughing, exercise intolerance, and difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, it’s important to take them to the vet for an evaluation.

There are many potential causes of DCM, but the most common is genetics. Other potential causes include infection, trauma, and certain medications. However, the most likely cause of DCM in dogs is poor nutrition.

16 Worst dog food for heat disease;

  • Acana
  • Zignature
  • Taste of the Wild
  • 4Health
  • Earthborn Holistic
  • Blue Buffalo
  • Nature’s Domain
  • Fromm
  • Merrick
  • California Natural
  • Natural Balance
  • Orijen
  • Nature’s Variety
  • NutriSource
  • Nutro
  • Rachael Ray Nutrish

There are many different causes of DCM, including genetics, infections, and various types of heart disease. However, the most common cause of DCM is unknown.

In the past, DCM was mostly seen in dogs that were not eating a balanced diet. For example, dogs that were fed a diet of table scraps or dog food that was not nutritionally complete were more likely to develop DCM.

Today, however, the vast majority of dogs with DCM are eating so-called “premium” or “gourmet” pet foods. In fact, many of the dogs that have been diagnosed with DCM in recent years were eating grain-free diets.

Which Line of Products by the 16 Worst dog food Brands linked to DCM/heart disease

  • Acana
  • Zignature
  • Taste of the Wild
  • 4Health
  • Earthborn Holistic
  • Blue Buffalo
  • Nature’s Domain
  • Fromm
  • Merrick
  • California Natural
  • Natural Balance
  • Orijen
  • Nature’s Variety
  • NutriSource
  • Nutro
  • Rachael Ray Nutrish

In the next section, I have described the line of products for each brand of dog food linked to DCM. For example, Acana’s Heritage dog food is the one linked to DCM.

Acana:

One of the worst offenders on this list is Acana. Their “Heritage” line of dog foods is particularly dangerous, as it contains high levels of legumes and potatoes. These ingredients have been linked to DCM in dogs.

Zignature:

Another company that has been linked to DCM in dogs is Zignature. Their “Limited Ingredient” line of dog foods is particularly dangerous, as it contains high levels of legumes and potatoes.

Taste of the Wild:

Taste of the Wild is another company that has been linked to DCM in dogs. Their “Grain-Free” line of dog foods is particularly dangerous, as it contains high levels of legumes and potatoes.

4Health:

4Health is another company that has been linked to DCM in dogs. Their “Grain-Free” line of dog foods is particularly dangerous, as it contains high levels of legumes and potatoes.

Earthborn Holistic:

Earthborn Holistic is another company that has been linked to DCM in dogs. Their “Grain-Free” line of dog foods is particularly dangerous, as it contains high levels of legumes and potatoes.

Blue Buffalo:

Blue Buffalo is another company that has been linked to DCM in dogs. Their “Life Protection” line of dog foods is particularly dangerous, as it contains high levels of corn, wheat, and soy.

Surprisingly this line of products is still on the market. Below is one of the highest rated-brand still available on Chewy;

Blue Buffalo Life Protection

Nature’s Domain:

Nature’s Domain is another company that has been linked to DCM in dogs. Their “Grain-Free” line of dog foods is particularly dangerous, as it contains high levels of legumes and potatoes.

Fromm:

Fromm is another company that has been linked to DCM in dogs. Their “Four-Star” line of dog foods is particularly dangerous, as it contains high levels of legumes and potatoes.

Merrick:

Merrick is another company that has been linked to DCM in dogs. Their “Grain Free” line of dog foods is particularly dangerous, as it contains high levels of legumes and potatoes.

California Natural:

California Natural is another company that has been linked to DCM in dogs. Their “Grain Free” line of dog foods is particularly dangerous, as it contains high levels of legumes and potatoes.

Natural Balance:

Natural Balance is another company that has been linked to DCM in dogs. Their “Grain Free” line of dog foods is particularly dangerous, as it contains high levels of legumes and potatoes.

Orijen:

Orijen is another company that has been linked to DCM in dogs. Their “Original” line of dog foods is particularly dangerous, as it contains high levels of legumes and potatoes.

Nature’s Variety:

Nature’s Variety is another company that has been linked to DCM in dogs. Their “Instinct” line of dog foods is particularly dangerous, as it contains high levels of legumes and potatoes.

NutriSource:

NutriSource is another company that has been linked to DCM in dogs. Their “Grain Free” line of dog foods is particularly dangerous, as it contains high levels of legumes and potatoes.

Nutro:

Nutro is another company that has been linked to DCM in dogs. Their “Grain Free” line of dog foods is particularly dangerous, as it contains high levels of legumes and potatoes.

Rachael Ray Nutrish:

Rachael Ray Nutrish is another company that has been linked to DCM in dogs. Their “Grain Free” line of dog foods is particularly dangerous, as it contains high levels of legumes and potatoes.

As you can see, there are a lot of companies out there whose dog foods have been linked to DCM. If you are concerned about your dog’s health, it is best to avoid these companies and their products.

Dog Food Ingredients linked to DCM

  1. Grain-free diet: A grain-free diet is one that does not contain any wheat, rye, barley, oats, or rice. These ingredients are typically replaced with higher levels of legumes and potatoes.
  2. Legumes: Legumes are a type of plant that includes beans, peas, lentils, and peanuts. They are a common ingredient in grain-free dog foods.
  3. Potatoes: Potatoes are a type of starchy vegetable that is often used as a replacement for grains in grain-free dog foods.
  4. Corn: Corn is a type of cereal grain that is commonly used as an ingredient in dog food. It is a cheap source of protein and fiber.

DCM in Dogs Linked with Grain-free, Peas and Lentils Diets

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Canine morbidity and mortality have been found to be impacted by the health of the heart. Dilated cardiomyopathy is the second most popular cardiac disease and with DCM, “dilation of the cardiac chambers reduce leading to systolic function and can progress to heart failure, arrhythmias, and sudden death” as per the literature review in this 2019 study.

Understanding DCM in Dogs

DCM has been historically been classified as a hereditary cardiac disease.

Below is a quick video explaining DCM in humans;

The study, led by researcher Dr. Lisa M. Freeman, and his team formed the basis for the FDA’s announcement in 2018 that it was investigating the link between DCM and grain-free diet in pet food.

Dr. Lisa, et.al’s team looked at the cases of 524 dogs diagnosed with DCM between December 1, 2010, and November 30, 2017. The hospital where the study was conducted saw an increase in the number of cases of DCM, from 2.4 cases/10,000 dog-years in 2010 to 11.8 cases/10,000 dog-years in 2017.

Over half of the dogs in the study were being fed a grain-free diet and almost 90% of those diets contained peas or lentils.

The FDA reported that out of the 524 dogs diagnosed with DCM, 91,93,89 were fed diets that were grain-free, with lentils/or lentils, and with peas respectively. Grain-free diet is therefore not the only diet linked to DCM. Lentils and peas are also some of the biggest to blame for diet-caused DCM or non-hereditary DCM.

Further, different dog breeds were found to have varying susceptibility to DCM with the control diet that included grains, peas, lentils, and potatoes.

Unfortunately, peas, chickpeas and lentils are some of the mostly used replacement of grain in the grain-free dog food;

Grain-free dry dog, cat food no longer a niche market | PetfoodIndustry.com

As shown in the Watt Global Media report on dog and cat food ingredients; 50.8% of grain-free ingredients rely on peas for dry dog food and 45.9% of dry cat food rely on peas as well to replace grains in their diets.

From the chart above, only sweet potatoes wasn’t linked to highly-significantly p-value in its link with DCM.

The chart below shows breeds such as Golden Retrievers, Great Danes, and Labrador Retrievers were not as likely to develop DCM.

The study did have some limitations in that it was based on client-owned dogs seen at one referral hospital and may not be generalizable to all dog populations. In addition, the possibility of recall bias cannot be ruled out as owners were asked to recall what their dog was fed in the past.

Despite these limitations, the study provides important information linking DCM to diets that are grain-free and contain peas and lentils. The FDA continues to investigate this potential link and is working with pet food manufacturers to provide more information about the ingredients in their products.

How large is the grain-free market in the US?

A 2019 study that calculated the size of a grain-free market used the formula, used the dollar sales volume;

grain-free sales/price per bag/12 months/# of dogs = 10%

5.5 billion/$50/12/90,000,000=10%.

The report noted that the report indicating the market size of the grain-free pet diet could have been underestimated and may be as high as 40%. In comparison, only 4.1% of the dogs were diagnosed with DCM in 2019 the period the grain-free market was estimated to be 40%.

The report relied on pet sales data in the US as provided by Nielsen Research Group.

What DCM Studies say:

Male Dogs are more likely to develop DCM than female dogs:

In a study published in J Vet Med Sci in 2016, male dogs were found to have up to 1.2 times higher odds of getting DCM compared to their female counterparts. Male dogs have been identified as the gender most likely to develop the disease in other studies as well.

The 2016 study did not study a larger sample and mostly included small-size, including Japanese, dog breeds finding Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Maltese and Pomeranian as the most prevalent breeds with the disease.

Larger breeds are more likely to develop DCM:

FDA study found that larger breeds were more likely to develop DCM than smaller breeds.

Dog breeds such as Boxers, Newfoundlands, Irish Wolfhounds, and Great Danes were some of the breeds identified in the study as being more likely to develop DCM.

Mix-breed dogs are more likely to develop DCM:

The study also found mixed-breed dogs to be among the highest and most susceptible group of dogs to develop DCM. breeds are at risk for DCM?

The FDA identified the following breeds as being more likely to develop DCM:

-Great Danes

-Boxers

-Newfoundlands

-Irish Wolfhounds

-Saint Bernards

-Scottish Deerhounds

-Doberman Pinschers

Which type of food was covered in the FDA study?

More than 500 food formulations were covered in the FDA study and 452 or more than 90% of all DCM-reported-linked food were dry dog food.

FDA Investigation into Potential Link between Certain Diets and Canine Dilated Cardiomyopathy | FDA

Which brands were mentioned to be linked to DCM?

Acana (67 cases):

Acana is a pet food brand that is manufactured by Champion Petfoods. The company was founded in 2002 and is based in Alberta, Canada. It markets itself as the #1 food to put dog rescues first. I suppose they are trying to say they are cheap and care about a significant amount of food dog rescues need to support a growing population and can serve them better with affordable kibble…cheap is expensive. They also have operations out of Kentucky here in the US.

Zignature (64 cases): Zignature is a pet food brand that is manufactured by Vested Interest in K9s, Inc. The company was founded in 2010 and is based in the United States.

The company markets its pet food brands as the limited-ingrediet diets dogs can rely on.

After the FDA revelation linking Zignature dog food to DCM cases, the company released a statement shown in the screenshot below;

They also went further to commission a study along with Pets Global which they reported in June 2020 concluding that “plasma and whole blood taurine concentrations increased as the dogs were eating Zignature® Kangaroo Formula, suggesting this brand’s feeding trial did not contribute to any negative health conditions, including dilated cardiomyopathy, and in fact, all dogs on the study thrived on the diet as evidence of their physical performance during their activities and training throughout this six-month study.”

You can read the entire study here

Three things that make me doubt this company and the quality of their ingredients and specifically reputational risk shown by;

  • Lack of company address on their website here. AAFCO and WSAVA have specifically specified to avoid companies with limited corporate profile and lacking known addresses. This is a way companies try to avoid accountability by not showing any real people behind the brands.
  • Went ahead and launched their own study to refute the FDA study and other credible peer-reviewed studies that have linked Zignature Kangaroo Formula to DCM. This goes to tell you that they are not interested in listening to science to make their brand better.
  • ‘Globally’ sourced ingredients tagline on their website tells you that they may be sourcing cheap ingredients from countries such as China known to include poisonous ingredients with minimal regulations.

Overall, we give Zignature brand a very bad review of less than 10 and in our ‘red list’ labels you should avoid.

Dog food brands most linked to heart-disease reports named - News - VIN

Below is the entire DCM dog food list to look out for and avoid;

  1. Acana (67 cases)- in Canada and US and also linked to Orijen
  2. Zignature (64 cases)- in the US and retails both wet and dry cat food
  3. Taste of the Wild(53 cases)
  4. 4Health(32 cases)
  5. Earthborn Holistic(32 cases)
  6. Blue Buffalo (31 cases)
  7. Nature’s Domain(29 cases)
  8. Fromm(24 cases)
  9. Merrick (16 cases)
  10. Californian Natural(15 cases)
  11. Natural Balance(15 cases)
  12. Nature’s Variety (11 cases)
  13. Nutrisorce (10 cases)
  14. Orijen (12 cases)
  15. Nutro(10 cases)
  16. Rachel RayNutridish(10 cases)

Combined, there were 16 brands that contributed to over 400 of the total 524 cases.

The most popular grain-free diet among all DCM-affected dogs was Acana, followed by Zignature, Taste of the Wild, 4Health, and Earthborn Holistic.

While grain-free diets are not the only possible cause of DCM, they may be a risk factor for certain dogs. The FDA is still investigating this potential link and will provide updates as more information becomes available.

Some possible diet causes of DCM in Dogs

Taurine:

One theory is that some grain-free diets may be low in an amino acid called taurine. Taurine is found in animal muscle meat, including organ meats and seafood. It’s also added to some pet foods as a supplement. Taurine deficiency has been linked with DCM in dogs, although the mechanism isn’t well understood.

Legumes:

Another theory is that dogs may be more likely to develop DCM if their diet contains a high proportion of legumes like peas, lentils, and beans instead of grains. This is because legumes are a relatively new addition to pet foods, so dogs may not have the same ability to digest them as they do grains.

Changing trends:

It’s also possible that the increasing popularity of grain-free diets has led to a change in the overall nutritional content of pet foods, which may be a contributing factor.

DCM Progress:

First stages:

There may be directly identifiable symptoms earlier in the disease states. Heart murmurs may, however, be present in asymptomatic dogs with early myocardial changes, although this is not common. Your veterinarian may detect an irregular heartbeat or arrhythmia on a routine physical examination or during a wellness visit. However, some dogs with DCM have few or no clinical signs in the early stages of the disease.

Middle stages:

The most common sign of DCM in dogs is exercise intolerance. This means that your dog tires easily and may be reluctant to go for walks or play. You may also notice that your dog is coughing, has difficulty breathing, or experiences an increased heart rate at rest. As the disease progresses, your dog may develop fluid retention, which can lead to an enlarged abdomen (known as a pot-bellied appearance) or difficulty urinating. In severe cases, your dog may collapse or go into sudden cardiac arrest.

Symptoms of DCM in Dogs:

Studies have shown that ‘The most common symptom that we see in dogs with DCM is exercise intolerance or tiring more easily during walks or other activities.” Other signs of DCM include coughing, difficulty breathing, and a loss of appetite.

As the disease progresses, dogs may collapse during walks or even at rest. A veterinarian may also hear an abnormal heart rhythm or murmur when listening to the dog’s chest with a stethoscope. An x-ray of the chest will often show an enlarged heart.

Diagnosis of DCM in dogs:

There is no one test that can definitively diagnose DCM, so your veterinarian will need to take a detailed history and perform a thorough physical examination. Your dog will also need to undergo some diagnostic tests, which may include:

-A complete blood count (CBC) to check for anemia or inflammation

-A biochemical profile to assess organ function

-An electrocardiogram (ECG) to evaluate heart function

-X-rays of the chest to look for heart enlargement or fluid accumulation

-Echocardiography to assess heart function and structure

-Holter monitoring to check for arrhythmias

-Blood pressure measurement

Treatment of DCM in Dogs

There is no cure for DCM, but treatment can help to improve your dog’s quality of life and extend their lifespan. Treatment will be focused on managing the symptoms of the disease and supporting heart function. In some cases, treatment may also include dietary changes. Your veterinarian will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is right for your dog.

The goal of treatment is to improve your dog’s quality of life and to slow the progression of the disease. Treatment will be based on your dog’s individual needs and may include:

  • -Weight management: If your dog is overweight, your veterinarian will recommend a weight loss program.
  • -Exercise restriction: Your dog will need to exercise less to help reduce the workload on their heart.
  • -Medications: Your dog may be prescribed medications to help improve heart function and relieve symptoms. These may include diuretics, ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, and antiarrhythmics.
  • -Supplementation: If your dog has a taurine deficiency, they may be prescribed taurine supplements.
  • -Dietary changes: Your veterinarian may recommend a change to your dog’s diet. This may include switching to a grain-free diet or adding more legumes to their diet.
  • -Heartworm prevention: If your dog is not already on heartworm prevention, they will need to start taking it to help protect their heart.
  • -Regular check-ups: Your dog will need to see their veterinarian for regular check-ups to monitor their condition and adjust their treatment plan as needed.

Dog Kidney Failure Symptoms Shaking

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dog kidney failure symptoms shaking

Shaking in a dog can be a sign of many different things, from excitement to pain. However, when coupled with other symptoms, it can indicate that the dog is suffering from kidney failure.

From the 4th stage of a dog’s chronic kidney failure, shaking and twitching are common symptoms and they are brought about by a drop in sugar levels which leads to muscle weakness. The dog will also feel cold and have a loss of appetite. If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, it is important to take them to the vet as soon as possible for treatment.

What is a dog shaking?

Dog shaking can be defined as any involuntary muscle movement or tremor. This can range from a very slight trembling to full-blown seizures. Shaking can affect any part of the body, including the legs, head, trunk, and even the tail.

The link between dog shaking and kidney failure:

Shaking is often one of the first signs that a dog is suffering from kidney failure. This is because the kidneys are responsible for filtering toxins out of the blood. When they begin to fail, these toxins build up in the bloodstream and cause tremors and muscle twitching.

Low sugar levels can also cause shaking:

Another reason why dogs with kidney failure may shake is because of low blood sugar levels. This can happen when the kidneys are not able to regulate blood sugar properly.

Muscle Spasm Misdiagnosis:

One of the problems with diagnosing kidney failure is that the symptoms often mimic other conditions. For example, muscle spasms can be caused by everything from dehydration to an electrolyte imbalance. This makes it difficult for even experienced veterinarians to identify kidney failure without further testing.

The shaking caused by failing kidneys is brought about by the toxins in the blood. As the kidneys are not able to filter these out, they build up and cause the muscles to twitch and spasm.

Chronic kidney failure can lead to tremors:

Chronic kidney failure is a slowly progressive condition that can take months or even years to develop. In the early stages, most dogs will only show mild symptoms that can be easily mistaken for something else. As the condition progresses, however, they will begin to exhibit more obvious signs of illness, including shaking.

Addisonian crisis:

One of the most serious complications of kidney failure is an Addisonian crisis. This occurs when the body cannot regulate its electrolyte levels and leads to a potentially fatal drop in blood pressure. Addisonian crises are often brought on by stress, and shaking is one of the most common symptoms.

When the adrenal glands are inactive, it is unable to produce the hormones needed to regulate blood pressure. This can lead to a sudden drop in blood pressure, which causes the blood vessels to constrict. This, in turn, leads to increased heart rate and shaking.

Demyelinating disorders :

Demyelinating disorders are another possible cause of shaking in dogs. These disorders cause the myelin sheath, which protects the nerve cells, to break down. This can lead to a loss of muscle control and tremors.

While demyelinating disorders are not common in dogs, they can occur. If your dog is shaking and you cannot find another explanation, it is important to have them checked by a veterinarian.

There are many possible causes of shaking in dogs, from excitement to pain. However, when coupled with other symptoms, it can indicate that the dog is suffering from kidney failure. Kidney failure is a serious condition that can be fatal if not treated promptly. If your dog is exhibiting any of the symptoms listed above, it is important to have them seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible.

Other symptoms of chronic kidney failure in dogs:

In addition to shaking, there are several other symptoms that can indicate that a dog is suffering from chronic kidney failure. These include:

· Increased thirst and urination

· Weight loss

· Loss of appetite

· Fatigue

· Weakness

· Depression

· Muscle wasting

· Difficulty breathing

The ideal sugar levels in normal dogs are between 70 and 120.

If your dog’s sugar levels are consistently below 60, or if they experience any of the other symptoms listed above, it is important to have them seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible. Chronic kidney failure is a serious condition that can be fatal if not treated promptly.

Euthanizing a dog with chronic kidney failure:

When a dog is diagnosed with chronic kidney failure, the first thing that many owners want to know is how long their dog has to live. Unfortunately, there is no easy answer to this question. The severity of the condition will vary from dog to dog, and some may live for years while others may only have a few months.

If your dog has been diagnosed with chronic kidney failure, it is important to work closely with your veterinarian to create a treatment plan. There are many options available, and the goal is to improve the quality of your dog’s life for as long as possible.

Euthanasia may eventually need to be considered, but it should only be done when all other options have been exhausted and your dog is no longer responding to treatment. Chronic kidney failure is a difficult condition to deal with, but with the right care, many dogs can enjoy a good quality of life for months or even years.

Caring for a dog with kidney failure:

If your dog has been diagnosed with kidney failure, there are several things that you can do to help them. First, it is important to feed them a high-quality diet that is low in phosphorus and sodium. You may also need to give them supplements to help replace the nutrients that their kidneys are no longer able to process.

It is also important to encourage them to drink plenty of water. This will help to flush the toxins from their body and prevent dehydration. You may need to give them subcutaneous fluids if they are not drinking enough on their own.

Finally, it is important to monitor their weight and keep an eye out for any other changes in their condition. Kidney failure can be a difficult condition to deal with, but with the right care, many dogs can enjoy a good quality of life for months or even years.

Dog Kidney Failure When to Euthanize

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Dog Kidney Failure When to Euthanize

I also shy away from writing about health issues in pets, especially those that involve the difficult decision to end a pet’s life. As a dog trainer, and a blogger, I find great joy in hanging out with healthy pets but that’s not always the case for everyone.

What is kidney failure in dogs?

The kidneys play an important role in keeping our dogs healthy and they are responsible for filtering the blood and removing waste products from the body. When the kidneys are not functioning properly, waste builds up in the blood and can make your dog very sick.

Dogs that are suffering from kidney failure may drink and urinate more than usual, have a decrease in appetite, and seem lethargic. As the disease progresses, they may suffer from weight loss, vomiting, and diarrhea. Kidney failure can be very serious and is often fatal.

Kidney failure progression in dogs:

Stage 1:

In Stage 1, the Creatine test will reveal that it is less than 1.4 mg/dl and SDMA is greater than 14 in µg/dL

Dogs in the early stages of kidney failure may drink and urinate more than usual. They may also seem lethargic and have a decrease in appetite. Kidneys at this stage are still able to filter waste from the blood, so dogs may not show any other signs of illness.

If you get your dog to the vet at this stage, there is a good chance that treatment can improve their quality of life and extend their life expectancy.

State 2:

In Stage 2, the Creatine test will reveal that it is between 1.4 and 2 mg/dl and SDMA is greater than 14 in µg/dL

Dogs in the middle stages of kidney failure may begin to lose weight, vomit, and have diarrhea. They will also drink and urinate more than usual. As the disease progresses, the kidneys will become less able to filter waste from the blood and dogs will begin to show more signs of illness.

Stage 3:

In Stage 3, the Creatine test will reveal that it is between 2.1 and 5.0 mg/dl and SDMA is more than in stage 2.

At this stage, dogs will generally feel very ill. They may suffer from seizures, become comatose, and experience respiratory distress. Kidney failure is often fatal at this stage.

State 4:

In Stage 4, the Creatine test will reveal that it is more than 5.0 mg/dl and SDMA is more than in stage 2.

Dogs in the late stages of kidney failure will generally feel very ill. They may be too weak to stand, have difficulty breathing, and may experience seizures. Kidney failure at this stage is often fatal.

How is kidney failure treated in dogs?

There is no cure for kidney failure, but there are treatments that can help to improve your dog’s quality of life and extend their life expectancy. Treatment will generally involve some combination of medication, a special diet, and fluid therapy.

Can dogs get kidneys transplant?

Unlike humans who can get a kidney transplant, this is not an option for dogs. This is because there are not enough donor kidneys available and the surgery is very expensive.

In some cases, the kidneys may be able to repair themselves. This is more likely to happen if the cause of kidney failure is something that can be treated, such as dehydration or an infection. However, if the damage to the kidneys is severe, they will not be able to repair themselves and will need to be removed.

When should I euthanize my dog? Dog kidney failure when to euthanize?

Making the decision to euthanize a pet is never easy, but it is sometimes the kindest thing that you can do.

You can euthanize your dog with a failing kidney if;

  1. Their quality of life has declined to the point where they are no longer enjoying life. You can know if your dog is in pain if they whimper, can’t sleep, can’t stand up, or has a loss of appetite. If they are repeatedly hospitalized and their condition is not improving.
  2. They are in pain and there is no way to alleviate
  3. You have consulted with your veterinarian and you both believe that euthanasia is the best course of action.

Steps to euthanize a dog with kidney failure;

Euthanasia is generally considered when a dog is suffering and there is no hope for improvement. If your dog is experiencing kidney failure, talk to your veterinarian about all of your options and what may be best for your dog.

Below are the steps you will follow to euthanize your dog with failing kidneys

1. Make an appointment with your veterinarian.

2. Take some time to say goodbye to your dog. Spend some extra time petting them, playing with them, and telling them how much you love them.

3. When it is time for the appointment, bring your dog to the vet in a carrier or on a leash.

4. The veterinarian will give your dog a sedative to help them relax.

5. Once your dog is sedated, the vet will give them an injection of euthanasia solution. This solution will cause their heart to stop and they will die peacefully.

6. You can stay with your dog during the procedure if you wish.

7. After your dog has passed away, the vet will likely offer to cremate or bury them for you. You can also take your dog home with you if you prefer.

what toxins cause kidney failure in dogs?

There are many different toxins that can cause kidney failure in dogs. Some common examples include:

  • Antifreeze
  • Certain medications
  • Household cleaners
  • Insecticides
  • Rat poison

Food that will cause dog kidney failure;

There are certain foods that can cause kidney failure in dogs. Some of these include:

  • Grapes
  • Raisins
  • Chocolate
  • Onions
  • Garlic

Check out this entire list of foods that cause kidney failure in dogs.

Last days of a dog with kidney failure

In the last days of your dog with advanced kidney failure, below are symtoms you’ll see;

  • Uremia: When the kidneys are no longer able to filter toxins from the blood, these toxins build up in the bloodstream and cause uremia. Symptoms of uremia include vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and coma.
  • Mouth ulcers
  • Anemia: As kidney failure progresses, it can cause anemia (a low red blood cell count). Anemic dogs may appear pale, lethargic, and short of breath.
  • Azotemia: Azotemia is a condition in which there is an abnormal accumulation of nitrogen-containing compounds in the blood. This can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and coma.
  • Changes in mental status: As the toxins build up in the blood, they can cause changes in mental status, such as depression, lethargy, and confusion.
  • Decreased appetite: As kidney failure progresses, your dog may lose their appetite.
  • Weight loss: As the appetite decreases, weight loss will occur.
  • Increased thirst and urination: As the kidneys fail, they are not able to remove excess water from the blood.
  • Pale, dry gums: As the kidney failure progresses, your dog’s gums may become pale and dry.
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Bruising: As the kidney failure progresses, your dog may start to bruise easily.
  • Nosebleeds: As the kidney failure progresses, your dog may experience nosebleeds.