Kidney disease is one of the most common conditions affecting older dogs. It can be managed successfully for years, especially when caught early and supported with the right food, gentle care and regular check-ups.

Contents

1. What is kidney disease?

2. The difference between acute and chronic

3. What are the signs to look for?

4. How it’s diagnosed

5. How kidney disease is managed

6. The role of raw feeding

7. Where to get help

8. Top 5 Takeouts

1. What is kidney disease?

The kidneys filter waste products from the blood, regulate fluid and mineral levels, and help control blood pressure. When the kidneys start to fail, waste builds up in the bloodstream, which can make your dog feel unwell and affect every part of the body.

Kidney disease is usually progressive. That means it gradually gets worse over time, but many dogs live for years with the condition when it’s managed well.

2. The difference between acute and chronic

There are two main types of kidney disease:

• Acute kidney injury - sudden and often reversible if treated quickly

• Chronic kidney disease (CKD) - long-term damage that cannot be reversed but can be managed

CKD is far more common, especially in older dogs. It tends to develop slowly and may not show obvious symptoms at first.

3. What are the signs to look for?

Early symptoms can be subtle, so it’s worth watching for changes like:

• Drinking and weeing more

• Reduced appetite or interest in food

• Weight loss or muscle loss

• Bad breath with a chemical or ammonia smell

• Vomiting or nausea

• Lethargy or weakness

• Mouth ulcers or dental problems

• Dehydration despite drinking plenty

These signs can appear gradually and are often mistaken for normal ageing, which is why regular vet checks are so important.

4. How it’s diagnosed

Your vet will diagnose kidney disease using:

• Blood tests to check for waste products like creatinine and SDMA

• Urine tests to assess concentration and protein levels

• Blood pressure measurement, as high blood pressure often goes hand in hand with kidney issues

• Imaging like ultrasound in some cases

Diagnosis helps determine the stage of kidney disease, which will guide treatment and monitoring.

5. How kidney disease is managed

There is no cure for CKD, but with the right approach your dog can stay happy and comfortable for a long time.

Treatment usually includes:

• Hydration support, either through food or fluid therapy

• A tailored, kidney-friendly diet

• Controlling blood pressure

• Phosphate binders, if phosphorus levels are high

• Anti-nausea medication, if vomiting or appetite loss is present

• Regular monitoring, every few months

The earlier treatment begins, the better the outcome.

💡 Poppy’s Tip: Keep a daily log of your dog’s eating, drinking and toileting habits. Changes in these can help you spot problems early.

6. The role of raw feeding

A carefully tailored raw diet can support kidney function, reduce strain on the body and improve quality of life.

Here’s why it helps:

• Naturally high moisture content keeps your dog hydrated

• Lower phosphorus content, especially with the right proteins

• Fewer additives and no starchy fillers, which reduces inflammation

• Easy-to-digest whole foods, gentle on the gut and kidneys

• Lean, fresh proteins, chosen to suit your dog’s condition

We can help you design a soft, low-phosphorus raw diet that supports kidney health without sacrificing flavour or nutrition.

7. Where to get help

At Poppy’s Picnic, we work closely with owners of dogs with kidney disease. Our team can help you:

• Build a kidney-friendly raw diet
  

• Tailor moisture, texture and feeding times
  

We’re here to make feeding simple and supportive, not stressful.

Top 5 Takeouts

1. Kidney disease is common in older dogs, especially when caught in routine blood tests.

2. Symptoms include increased thirst, reduced appetite and weight loss, but they can be subtle at first.

3. Early diagnosis and management make a big difference, and many dogs live happily with the condition.

4. A raw diet tailored for kidney health supports hydration and reduces strain, while still being delicious.

5. Monitoring is key, and small changes in food, routine or medication can help your dog thrive.

Let us know if your dog has been diagnosed with kidney disease. We can help you build a plan that works with your vet, supports your dog naturally and gives them the best possible quality of life.