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The Basics of Kidney Diseases in American Bulldogs

The Threats of Kidney Disease in Dogs

Kidney disease in dogs can easily lead to the complete failure of the kidney to perform its functions. That is, to filter out the toxic products from our blood. When toxic products are not filtered, they are not released as urine, but instead, enters the bloodstream, which can cause greater problems. This is commonly referred to as chronic renal failure. Kidney disease in dogs can be especially harmful. If a kidney disease is detected quite early, medical attention can keep it from becoming an actual danger to your dog.

Causes of Dog Kidney Disease

There are a lot of possible causes that result to kidney disease in dogs. Chronic renal failure can be caused by a lot of things. The suspected causes include bacteria, hyperthyroidism, and high blood pressure. However, some kidney diseases in dogs are even hereditary, and some are congenital. Other known causes are any case of fungal infections, and either physical or emotional trauma can also have an effect in your dog’s ability to properly release urine. A dog with cancer can also be in greater risk of getting a kidney disease.  

Symptoms of Kidney Disease in Dogs

Kidney disease in dogs such as chronic renal failure can be detected through a number of symptoms. The most telltale symptoms are increased frequency of urine, and dilute urine, which refers to urine that is both colorless and odorless, a sure sign that the urine that is released does not contain toxic products anymore. Your dog may also start asking for a lot of water, and may not have a good appetite for food. This can also cause your dog to lose a lot of weight. Your dog may also frequently feel nauseous, and be driven to vomiting or diarrhea. If you suspect your dog of having a kidney disease, check its teeth for any signs of discoloration. Aside from physical symptoms, your dog may also experience behavioral changes. Dog kidney diseases can cause depression, and diminish desire to engage in various activities. If you see any of the symptoms, and highly suspect renal disease in your dog, consult your veterinarian and ask for a kidney dialysis immediately.  

Treat Kidney Disease in Dogs

The number one and most commonly known effective way to treat kidney disease in dogs is through diet. In a nutshell, dietary adjustments to treat kidney disease are geared towards reducing the level of toxins that get into the body and, with chronic renal disease, enter the bloodstream. If your dog is suffering from a renal disease, to minimize its effects, serve food that contains less protein and minimal amounts of phosphorus, which can further accelerate the effects and development of renal diseases. Also, since a lot of other disorders occur in kidney disease cases, such as anorexia and anemia, treatments for these other disorders are also necessary. Consult your veterinarian for possible treatments for such disorders. In severe cases, however, the only way to treat kidney disease is through kidney transplants, but kidney transplants in dogs play with a higher level of risk than in humans, so rather than get to that point where it is the only option, it is better prevent the worsening of your dog’s renal disease early.