Causes of Kidney Failure in Dogs

Dogs kidneys provide a variety of functions, such as metabolic waste removal from their blood, controlling of blood pressure and production of hormones that stimulate production of red blood cells. Unhealthy or failing kidneys are harmful to dogs, causing serious injury or death. In this article we'll look at some of the reasons for kidney failure.

Acute Kidney Failure

Acute (renal) kidney failure, or ARF, is a sudden decline of kidney functions. It affects the entire body causing the following physical symptoms: increased urination, depression, weakness, excessive drinking, weight loss, lethargy and vomiting.

Chronic Kidney Failure

Chronic (renal) kidney failure is due to the inability of the kidneys to filter or keep working. This is usually seen in older dogs and is a sign of aging. The symptoms are the same as acute kidney failure.

Familial Renal Disease

Familial renal disease comes in many forms and is an inherited disease. Most of these symptoms are the same as in acute kidney failure.

Glomerulonephritis

Glomerulonephritis is the inflammation and damaging of the kidneys filtering unit (glomeruli). In turn, dogs with Glomerulonephritis can contract other infections or cancer.

Lyme Disease/Ticks

Ticks are a big problem for dogs and Lyme disease that is associated with ticks can cause kidney failure if not treated. Some of the symptoms caused by ticks/lyme disease are the same as acute kidney failure.

Treatment

Kidney failure in dogs can be treated and prevented, in most cases, if owners maintain good general care and consult their veterinarian if any problems arise.

Resources

• Canine Kidney Disease