Kidney Dysplasia in Dogs

Some breeds are especially prone to renal dysplasia.

Kidney dysplasia goes by many names, including renal dysplasia, progressive juvenile nephropathy, familial renal disease and juvenile renal dysplasia. "Dysplasia" is a term used to describe an abnormality in maturation. Dogs who are suspected to have kidney dysplasia or kidney failure should be brought to a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Affected Breeds

Renal dysplasia is usually inherited, and affected dogs will often show signs before they reach two years of age. It affects several different breeds of dogs, though due to its hereditary nature, specific breeds may be more prone to developing the condition. According to Kenneth C. Bovee, DVM, of the University of Pennsylvania, shih tzus are the most commonly affected dogs, with up to 85 percent of the breed afflicted in the United States. However, it has been recorded in other breeds including cocker spaniels, golden retrievers, soft-haired wheaten terriers, lhasa apsos, Finnish harriers, bulldogs, Airedale terriers, samoyeds, standard poodles, great danes and Yorkshire terriers.

Symptoms

As the affected puppy grows, some of the symptoms will be similar to those of kidney failure. This includes polydipsia, an increase in thirst that may be accompanied by polyuria, an increase in urination. The dog may also become depressed and suffer from weight loss, occasional vomiting and lethargy. Some dogs may have hematuria, or blood in the urine. Renal dysplasia can also cause stunted growth, along with bone pain or abnormal bone structure or development.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis often begins by searching for the cause of renal failure in such a young dog. The puppy may undergo a urinalysis along with ultrasounds or x-rays, which will reveal shrunken or abnormally shaped kidneys. The veterinarian may also order a biopsy of the kidney tissue to check for infections or other causes of the failing kidneys. Blood tests may also be done to determine if other organs are affected or causing an issue with the kidneys.

Treatment

There is no direct treatment for canine renal dysplasia. These dogs will undergo treatment for the subsequent kidney failure that occurs with this disease. This includes IV fluids for rehydration and vitamin supplements. The dog may also need antiemetic drugs, which are medications used to control vomiting. Pain medications and medication for high blood pressure may also be necessary for the affected canine patient. In some areas, a kidney transplant may be possible.

Prognosis

Dogs with kidney dysplasia face a poor prognosis. There is no cure for the mutation that occurs with this disease. Dr. Debra Primovic of PetPlace.com notes that there is also no way to slow the kidney failure that occurs as a result of kidney dysplasia; for the majority of affected dogs, death is inevitable.

References

• Pet Place: Renal Dysplasia in Dogs (Familial Renal Disease)
• BMDCA.org: Renal Dysplasia
• Veterinary Information Network: Renal Dysplasia in Shih Tzu Dogs
• Vet Prof: Juvenile Renal Disease
• American Kennel Club: Renal Dysplasia in Shih Tzu