Vets test for kidney disease using a combination of blood tests (checking waste products like BUN, creatinine, and SDMA) and a complete urinalysis (assessing urine concentration, protein levels, pH) to evaluate kidney function and structure. They may also use imaging (X-rays, ultrasound) to see kidney size/shape and measure blood pressure, looking for changes that signal dysfunction, even in early stages where traditional bloodwork might seem normal.

How do vets check for kidney disease?

The following screening tests are usually recommended when kidney disease is suspected in a pet: a complete blood count (CBC), a serum biochemical profile, and a urinalysis.

Will blood work show kidney problems in dogs?

Blood chemistries (blood serum tests) give us insight into a dog's organ function (liver, kidneys and pancreas), hormone levels, electrolyte status and more. We can assess the health of older dogs, do general health assessments prior to anesthesia or monitor dogs receiving long-term medications.

How does a dog get diagnosed with kidney disease?

There are two basic tests for kidney function: a complete urinalysis and a blood chemistry analysis. A urinalysis is needed to evaluate kidney function. A low urine specific gravity (USpG) is the earliest indication of kidney failure.

How much does it cost to check a dog's kidneys?

Urinalysis: Urinalysis helps assess kidney function, screen for diabetes, and diagnose urinary tract infections. The cost of a urinalysis can range from $75 to $100.

Kidney Disease and Cats - Everything you need to know

Is it expensive to treat a dog with kidney disease?

Kidney failure is one of the most expensive medical issues for dogs. If you decide to pursue ongoing treatment, the out-of-pocket expense will quickly get into the thousands of dollars.

How can I tell if my dog has kidney failure?

Signs of kidney failure in dogs often involve increased thirst and urination, lethargy, weight loss, vomiting, loss of appetite, and bad breath with a chemical smell, along with pale gums or mouth sores, as toxins build up when kidneys can't filter properly. These symptoms can appear gradually or suddenly, signaling the need for urgent veterinary care.
 

What age do dogs get kidney disease?

The age of onset is related to the size of the dog. For most small dogs, early signs of kidney disease occur at about 10 to 14 years of age. However, large dogs have a shorter age span and may go into kidney failure as early as seven years of age.

How to test a dog for kidney disease at home?

Easy 4 Steps!

1. Remove strip from package and get a timer.
2. Wet the pad on animal's gums. Typically ~5 seconds will fully wet the pad.
3. Start the timer and wait exactly 2 minutes.
4. Next, read test immediately using the colour scoring on the back of Kidney-Chek™ package.

How often should a dog with early kidney disease see a vet?

Stage I is mostly for pets that are known to have kidney disease based on abnormal ultrasound or their slightly elevated SDMA. We check their blood pressure and urinary protein levels, and screen for urinary tract infections. If abnormalities are found, they are usually checked quarterly for any sign of progression.

Which are the two most commonly used tests of kidney function in dogs?

Blood and urine samples are normally the first tests done to diagnose renal failure in dogs. This is because both can show abnormalities linked to the condition.

How fast does kidney disease progress in dogs?

Kidney disease progression in dogs varies widely, from slow, years-long declines in chronic cases (CKD) to rapid, days-long failure in acute cases, often taking years to show signs because kidneys have reserve function, with factors like age, breed, hydration, and other illnesses influencing speed, though treatment aims to slow progression, not cure it.

What toxins cause kidney failure in dogs?

Causes of Acute Kidney Failure in Dogs

• Antifreeze (often licked up off of garage floor or driveway)
• Grapes and raisins (hidden in other foods or alone)
• Ibuprofen.
• Human heart medications.
• Overdose of canine medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and aminoglycoside antibiotics.

What are the signs of stage 1 kidney disease?

What are the symptoms of stage 1 CKD?

• High blood pressure.
• Swelling in your hands or feet.
• Urinary tract infections.
• Protein in your urine (proteinuria)
• Blood in your urine (also called hematuria)
• Kidney damage that shows up in an imaging test such as ultrasound, CT scan, MRI, or kidney biopsy.

How does a dog act with kidney disease?

Early kidney failure often shows subtle signs that pet parents might miss. Mild symptoms include slightly increased thirst and urination, occasional decreased appetite, and mild weight loss over time. Your dog might seem a bit less energetic but still engage in normal activities.

Which dog breeds are prone to kidney failure?

Breeds that are prone to inherited renal failure include:

• Bull Terriers.
• English Cocker Spaniels.
• Cairn Terriers.
• German Shepherds.
• Samoyeds.
• Shih Tzus.
• Lhasa Apsos.
• Alaskan Malamutes.

What does dog poop look like with kidney disease?

In severe kidney failure, the amount of urine may actually decrease, or the pet may stop making urine altogether. Other signs as things get worse include digested blood in the stool making the stool look black and tarry, or vomiting digested blood, which looks like coffee grounds.

How to reverse kidney disease in dogs?

While there is no cure for chronic kidney disease in dogs, in many cases the condition can be managed with the assistance of a therapeutic diet, which may help your pet to enjoy a good quality of life for months, depending on their specific circumstances.

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