Best Dog Food for Dogs with Kidney Disease: Top Picks and Tips

Kidney disease is a common ailment in dogs, and it can be challenging to find the right food to help manage the condition. The best dog food for dogs with kidney disease is specifically formulated to provide the necessary nutrients while not overburdening the kidneys. These foods are designed to be low in protein, phosphorus, and sodium, which can help reduce the workload on the kidneys.

When looking for the best dog food for dogs with kidney disease, it is essential to pay attention to the ingredients list. Look for high-quality protein sources that are easily digestible, such as chicken or turkey. Avoid foods that contain by-products or fillers, as these can be hard on the kidneys. Additionally, you should choose foods that are low in phosphorus, as this mineral can build up in the bloodstream of dogs with kidney disease and cause further damage.

Another critical factor to consider when choosing the best dog food for dogs with kidney disease is the sodium content. High levels of sodium can lead to hypertension, which can further damage the kidneys. Look for foods that are low in sodium, and avoid those that contain added salt.

After researching and testing various dog foods, we have identified the top options for dogs with kidney disease. These foods are formulated with high-quality protein sources, low levels of phosphorus and sodium, and other essential nutrients to support overall health. By choosing one of these foods, you can help manage your dog’s kidney disease and improve their quality of life.

Best Dog Food for Dogs with Kidney Disease

As pet owners, we always want the best for our furry friends. When it comes to dogs with kidney disease, it’s important to provide a diet that supports their health needs. That’s why we’ve researched and compiled a list of the best dog food options for dogs with kidney disease. These products are specifically formulated to provide the necessary nutrients while also being gentle on the kidneys. We hope this list helps you find the best option for your pup’s needs.

Hill’s Prescription Diet k/d Kidney Care with Chicken Dry Dog Food

If you are looking for a dog food that can help improve the quality of life for your furry friend with kidney disease, then Hill’s Prescription Diet k/d Kidney Care with Chicken Dry Dog Food may be a good option for you.

Pros

• The food is specially formulated by Hill’s nutritionists and veterinarians to help protect your dog’s kidney function
• It contains wholesome ingredients with more essential amino acids than daily requirements to support your dog’s natural ability to maintain lean muscle
• Enhanced Appetite Trigger (E.A.T) Technology for dogs enhances appetite and increases food intake

Cons

• The food is a bit expensive compared to other dog foods on the market
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food
• It is a prescription diet, so you will need to consult with your veterinarian to make sure it is the right food for your dog

We have been using Hill’s Prescription Diet k/d Kidney Care with Chicken Dry Dog Food for our dog who has kidney disease for a few months now. We have noticed an improvement in our dog’s appetite and energy levels since switching to this food. The food is made with chicken and has an irresistible taste that our dog loves.

The reduced phosphorus and sodium in the food helps protect vital kidney function. We also like that the food contains more essential amino acids than daily requirements to support our dog’s natural ability to maintain lean muscle.

While the food is a bit expensive compared to other dog foods on the market, we feel that it is worth the cost to help improve our dog’s quality of life. However, some dogs may not like the taste of the food, so it may not be the best option for every dog.

Overall, we would recommend Hill’s Prescription Diet k/d Kidney Care with Chicken Dry Dog Food to other dog owners who are looking for a high-quality dog food to help manage their dog’s kidney disease. However, as it is a prescription diet, you should consult with your veterinarian to make sure it is the right food for your furry friend.

Kidney Restore Dog Treats: Restorative Dog Treats for Kidney Issues

If you’re looking for a treat that can help support your dog’s kidney health, Kidney Restore Dog Treats might be worth considering.

Pros

• These treats are designed to be a nutrient-rich snack that can help restore and rejuvenate kidney health and function in dogs with kidney issues.
• Kidney Restore Dog Treats are made with low protein ingredients to support kidney health in multiple ways, and many owners have reported healthier, livelier dogs with healthier kidneys after using them.
• The treats are enhanced with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory herbs and dog vitamins for kidney health, including organic turmeric, potassium, cordyceps, B complex vitamins, cranberry extract, rehmannia extract, pumpkin, organic acacia fiber, astragalus, vitamin C and E.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of these treats, but the manufacturer offers a 60-day money-back guarantee if your dog doesn’t like them.
• The treats are a bit pricey compared to some other dog treats, but they are designed to be more like a kidney supplement for dogs than just a regular treat.
• While these treats can be a helpful addition to a dog’s kidney diet, they should not be used as a replacement for veterinary care or medication.

We recently tried Kidney Restore Dog Treats with our dog, who has early-stage kidney disease. While it’s hard to say for sure if the treats have made a difference in his kidney health, we have noticed that he seems to enjoy them and they haven’t caused any adverse reactions. The packaging includes instructions on how to access a free eBook with more information on supporting your pet’s kidney health, and the manufacturer offers free product support by pet health coaches if you have any questions. Overall, we think Kidney Restore Dog Treats could be a helpful addition to a dog’s kidney health regimen.

Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet KS Kidney Support Dry Dog Food

If you are looking for a natural dog food that supports your dog’s kidney function, then Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet KS Kidney Support Dry Dog Food may be a good option for you.

Pros

• Formulated to support your dog’s kidney function
• Features controlled levels of protein to help manage kidney workload
• Made with the finest natural ingredients enhanced with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients

Cons

• Requires your veterinarian’s authorization
• The kibble size may be too large for smaller dogs
• Some dogs may not like the taste

We have been using Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet KS Kidney Support Dry Dog Food for our dog with kidney disease for several months now. We have noticed an improvement in his overall health and energy levels. The controlled levels of protein and minerals have helped to manage his kidney workload and support his kidney function.

One thing to keep in mind is that this is a prescription dog food, so you will need your veterinarian’s authorization to purchase it. Additionally, the kibble size may be too large for smaller dogs, and some dogs may not like the taste.

Overall, we would recommend Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet KS Kidney Support Dry Dog Food to anyone looking for a natural dog food that supports kidney function. It is made with high-quality ingredients and has helped to improve our dog’s health.

Bully Max High Performance Premium Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a premium dry dog food that caters to all dog breeds and ages, then Bully Max High Performance Premium Dry Dog Food is worth considering.

Pros

• With 30% more protein and 20% more fat than traditional options, it efficiently nourishes your dog for healthy weight gain and rapid muscle growth.
• It’s made with high-quality protein sources like Chicken Meal -amp; Brown Rice, infused with Chicken Fat for essential fats, and Dried Plain Beet Pulp for fiber, making it a balanced diet for overall health and vitality.
• It’s formulated with the finest natural ingredients, adheres to AFFCO standards for complete and balanced nutrition, and is suitable for both small and large breeds at any life stage.

Cons

• It’s a bit expensive compared to other dog food options in the market.
• The bag is small, which may not be sufficient for larger breeds or for those who consume more food.
• Some dogs may not like the taste, although this is subjective and varies from dog to dog.

We’ve been using Bully Max High Performance Premium Dry Dog Food for a while now, and we’re impressed with its quality and effectiveness. Our dog has gained healthy weight and muscle mass, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his overall health and vitality. The high protein and fat content provide ample energy for daily activities, making it an ideal choice for active breeds.

The formula is well-balanced, with natural ingredients that cater to all dog breeds and ages. The added vitamins, minerals, and trace nutrients ensure complete and balanced nutrition, making it a top choice for champion show dogs as well.

However, the price may be a concern for some pet owners, and the small bag size may not be sufficient for larger breeds or those who consume more food. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste, although this is subjective and varies from dog to dog.

Overall, if you’re looking for a premium dry dog food that delivers optimal nutrition and is suitable for all breeds and ages, Bully Max High Performance Premium Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food Chicken and Chicken -amp; Duck Recipes in Bone Broth Variety Pack, 2 oz. Tubs, Pack of 8 Variety Pack 2 Ounce (Pack of 8)

If you’re looking for a simple and natural dog food complement for your furry friend with kidney disease, Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement could be a great option.

Pros

• Made with only 7 natural ingredients, including real chicken as the #1 ingredient and real duck.
• Mix this dog food in with your dog’s favorite Nutro Dry Dog Food for added flavor and ultimate tail wags.
• Crafted with real, recognizable ingredients and without grains, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat or soy, and no artificial flavors*, colors* or preservatives*.

Cons

• May be a bit expensive than other dog food complements.
• Contains only 2 oz. tubs, which may not be enough for larger dogs.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the wet food complement.

We’ve tried Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement with our dog who has kidney disease, and we’re happy with the results. The natural ingredients, including real chicken and duck, make us feel good about feeding it to our furry friend. We also appreciate that it’s free of grains, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, soy, and artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.

One of the best things about this dog food complement is that it’s versatile. You can mix it in with your dog’s dry food for added flavor and nutrition, use it as a topper, or give it to your dog as a snack. Our dog loves it mixed in with his dry food, and we’ve noticed that he’s been more excited about mealtime since we started using Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement.

However, we do find that it can be a bit expensive compared to other dog food complements on the market. Also, the 2 oz. tubs may not be enough for larger dogs, so you may need to use multiple tubs per meal. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the wet food complement, so it may not be suitable for all dogs with kidney disease.

Overall, we think Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement is a great option for dogs with kidney disease who need a simple and natural dog food complement. It’s made with quality ingredients, versatile, and our dog loves it.

Stella -amp; Chewy’s SuperBlends Raw Blend Wholesome Grains Cage-Free Chicken -amp; Duck Recipe with Superfoods, 21 lb. Bag

If you are looking for a dog food that is packed with superfoods and is designed to support strong, healthy muscles, then Stella -amp; Chewy’s SuperBlends Raw Blend is an excellent choice. Crafted with your pet’s health in mind, this product comes in four irresistible recipes that are sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

Pros

• Superfood-Powered Kibble: Raw-coated, nutrient-packed, and crafted with a unique blend of responsibly sourced proteins, grains, and superfoods, SuperBlends help your dog thrive. Our Raw Blend recipes even have pieces of freeze-dried raw meat mixed right in for an extra protein boost.
• Delicious Taste, Guaranteed: Made with bone broth and raw-coated for maximum flavor, SuperBlends offer an irresistible taste that your pup is sure to love. Plus, all of our recipes are complete and balanced meals, giving your dog everything they need in one bag.
• Small-Batch, Nutrient-Rich: Our SuperBlends recipes are oven-baked in small batches, helping preserve all the nutrients your pup needs to stay healthy and strong.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the product.
• The product may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions.
• The price may be higher than other dog food products on the market.

If you are looking for a dog food that is packed with high-quality ingredients and superfoods, then Stella -amp; Chewy’s SuperBlends Raw Blend is a great option. We were impressed with the product’s delicious taste and its ability to support strong, healthy muscles in our furry friends. Additionally, the small-batch, oven-baking process helps preserve all the nutrients your dog needs to stay healthy and strong. However, some dogs may not like the taste of the product, and it may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions. Overall, we believe that Stella -amp; Chewy’s SuperBlends Raw Blend is a great choice for pet owners looking for a high-quality dog food product.

Now Fresh Grain Free Small Breed Dog Food

We highly recommend the Now Fresh Grain Free Small Breed Dog Food for dogs with kidney disease who need a healthy diet. This dog food is packed with real meat and fish, as well as natural superfoods to support your dog’s overall health.

Pros

• The recipe is made with only fresh de-boned meats and fish for protein, omega 3s and 6s, and a delicious taste.
• It includes premium-quality turkey as the first ingredient plus fresh salmon and duck. There are no by-products or meat meals.
• The food is carefully crafted with moderate protein and fat to help maintain a healthy weight, with L-carnitine to support heart health and fat burning, and New Zealand green mussels for chondroitin to support healthy hips and joints.

Cons

• This dog food is a bit pricier than other options on the market.
• Some reviewers have reported receiving expired dog food.
• The kibble may be too small for larger breeds.

We have been feeding our dog with kidney disease the Now Fresh Grain Free Small Breed Dog Food for a few months now, and we are impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The real meat and fish provide our dog with the protein he needs, and the natural superfoods support his overall health. We have also noticed that our dog is maintaining a healthy weight, which is important for his condition.

The kibble is small, which is perfect for our small breed dog, but it may not be suitable for larger breeds. We also noticed that this dog food is a bit pricier than other options on the market, but we believe that it is worth the investment for our dog’s health.

In conclusion, if you are looking for a high-quality dog food for your dog with kidney disease, we highly recommend the Now Fresh Grain Free Small Breed Dog Food. It is packed with real meat and fish, natural superfoods, and other essential nutrients to support your dog’s overall health.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Premium Natural Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Beef, Pea -amp; Brown Rice Recipe for dogs with kidney disease.

Pros

• Real beef is the number one ingredient, which helps support healthy organs and maintain lean muscle mass.
• Includes Nutrish’s Whole Health Blend which helps support a healthy mind, body, and energy level.
• No fillers, no artificial flavors, and no artificial preservatives.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this food.
• This food may be too expensive for some pet owners.
• The kibble size may be too large for smaller dogs.

We have been using Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Beef, Pea -amp; Brown Rice Recipe for our dog with kidney disease for several months now, and we have seen a noticeable improvement in his overall health. The real beef provides a high-quality protein source, and the fiber sources including peas and brown rice help support healthy digestion. We also appreciate that this food includes Nutrish’s Whole Health Blend, which includes omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil to help support an active mind, antioxidants like those found in superfoods to help support a healthy body, and whole grains to help maintain balanced energy levels.

We are also impressed that a portion of the proceeds from the sale of every Nutrish dog food product will be donated to The Rachael Ray Foundation, which helps animals in need. While this food may be more expensive than some other options, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the positive impact on our dog’s health make it worth the investment.

Overall, we highly recommend Rachael Ray Nutrish Real Beef, Pea -amp; Brown Rice Recipe for dogs with kidney disease.

Mattie’s Treats: 1 Pound Box; Low Protein, Low Phosphorus, Low Sodium Dog Treats

If you’re looking for a treat that is both healthy and delicious, then Mattie’s Treats are a great option for dogs with kidney disease.

Pros

• Made with only 6 simple ingredients
• Low in protein, phosphorus, and sodium
• Each purchase helps fund canine kidney disease research

Cons

• Treats are a bit hard and large
• Some dogs may not enjoy the pumpkin and cinnamon flavor
• Shipping costs can be high

We were impressed by the simplicity of the ingredients in Mattie’s Treats. With only six ingredients, these treats are a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs. The low protein, phosphorus, and sodium content makes them a healthy choice for dogs with kidney disease. We also appreciate that a percentage of sales from every box is donated to fund canine kidney disease research.

One downside to these treats is that they can be a bit hard and large, which may not be suitable for all dogs. Additionally, some dogs may not enjoy the pumpkin and cinnamon flavor. It’s also worth noting that shipping costs can be high.

Overall, we would recommend Mattie’s Treats for dogs with kidney disease who are in need of a healthy and tasty treat.

Dave’s Pet Food Kidney Support for Dogs with Renal Support (Chicken Formula Crumble) Non-Prescription Low Phosphorus Restricted Diet Dog Food, Added Vitamins Minerals Taurine, Vet Formulated, 4 lb 4 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you are looking for a non-prescription dog food to manage your dog’s kidney disease, Dave’s Pet Food Kidney Support for Dogs with Renal Support is worth considering.

Pros

• Formulated by board-certified veterinarian nutritionists to be low phosphorus to help manage kidney concerns
• Helps protect your dog’s vital kidney function for improved renal health and prolonged lifespan
• Fortified with omega-3 fatty acids, EPA, DHA, -amp; B12 vitamins to help replenish stores that are lost through increased urination

Cons

• Strong smell of the powdery food may not be appealing to all dogs
• Powder consistency may not be preferred by some dogs
• Expensive compared to other dog food options

We have tried several kidney care dog foods and home cooked recipes without success. Dave’s low phosphorus dog food was recommended by a friend who has a dog with kidney disease, and we decided to try it. We were pleased with the results and our dog’s health has improved since switching to this food.

One of the things we like about Dave’s Pet Food Kidney Support is that it is formulated by board-certified veterinarian nutritionists to be low phosphorus to help manage kidney concerns. This is important for dogs with kidney disease as high levels of phosphorus can be harmful.

Another benefit of this dog food is that it helps protect your dog’s vital kidney function for improved renal health and prolonged lifespan. This is a big plus for us as we want to ensure our dog has the best quality of life possible.

Lastly, we appreciate that Dave’s Pet Food Kidney Support is fortified with omega-3 fatty acids, EPA, DHA, -amp; B12 vitamins to help replenish stores that are lost through increased urination. This is important for maintaining overall health and well-being.

However, there are some downsides to this dog food. The strong smell of the powdery food may not be appealing to all dogs, and the powder consistency may not be preferred by some dogs. Additionally, this dog food is more expensive compared to other dog food options.

Overall, if you are looking for a non-prescription dog food to manage your dog’s kidney disease, Dave’s Pet Food Kidney Support for Dogs with Renal Support is a solid choice to consider.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for dogs with kidney disease, there are a few important factors to consider. We recommend looking for products that meet the following criteria:

Protein Content

Dogs with kidney disease require a diet that is low in protein. This is because the kidneys are responsible for filtering out waste products from the blood, and a high protein diet can put extra strain on them. Look for dog foods that have a protein content of around 14-18%.

Phosphorus Content

Phosphorus is a mineral that is naturally present in many foods, including meat and dairy products. However, dogs with kidney disease are unable to filter out excess phosphorus from their bodies, which can lead to further damage to the kidneys. Look for dog foods that have a low phosphorus content, ideally less than 0.5%.

Sodium Content

Sodium is another mineral that can put strain on the kidneys, so it’s important to choose dog foods that are low in sodium. Look for products that have a sodium content of less than 0.3%.

Other Considerations

In addition to the above factors, there are a few other things to consider when choosing the best dog food for dogs with kidney disease. These include:

• Quality ingredients: Look for dog foods that use high-quality ingredients, such as whole meats, vegetables, and fruits.
• Digestibility: Dogs with kidney disease may have trouble digesting certain foods, so it’s important to choose products that are easy to digest.
• Taste: Dogs with kidney disease may have a decreased appetite, so it’s important to choose a dog food that your pet will enjoy.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose a dog food that will provide your pet with the nutrition they need while also supporting their kidney health.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the recommended foods for a dog with kidney failure who has a decreased appetite?

For dogs with kidney disease who have lost their appetite, it’s important to offer them a highly palatable and nutritious diet. Wet food or canned food can be a good option, as it often has a stronger smell and taste, making it more appealing to dogs. You may also want to try warming up the food or adding some low-sodium chicken or beef broth to make it more enticing.

How can I prepare a homemade diet that is safe for a dog with kidney disease?

If you’re interested in preparing homemade food for your dog with kidney disease, it’s important to consult with a veterinary nutritionist to ensure that the diet is nutritionally balanced and appropriate for your dog’s specific needs. Homemade diets for dogs with kidney disease typically include a combination of high-quality protein sources, low-phosphorus vegetables, and healthy fats.

Which non-prescription foods are recommended for dogs with kidney issues?

There are several non-prescription dog foods that are specifically formulated for dogs with kidney disease. Look for foods that are low in phosphorus and protein but still contain high-quality protein sources, such as eggs or lean meats. It’s also important to avoid foods that contain excessive amounts of sodium, as this can put additional strain on the kidneys.

What are some safe human foods to offer a dog suffering from kidney disease?

Some safe human foods that can be offered to dogs with kidney disease include cooked chicken, turkey, or beef; low-phosphorus vegetables such as green beans, carrots, and broccoli; and small amounts of low-fat dairy products such as plain yogurt or cottage cheese. It’s important to avoid foods that are high in sodium, such as processed meats or cheese, as well as foods that are toxic to dogs, such as grapes, onions, and garlic.

Are there any specific treats suitable for dogs with kidney disease?

There are several low-phosphorus and low-protein treats that are suitable for dogs with kidney disease, such as baby carrots, green beans, or small pieces of cooked chicken or turkey. It’s important to avoid high-fat or high-sodium treats, as well as treats that contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs, such as chocolate or raisins.

Which vegetables can be included in a diet for a dog with kidney problems?

Low-phosphorus vegetables such as green beans, carrots, and broccoli can be included in a diet for a dog with kidney problems. These vegetables are also low in sodium and high in fiber, making them a healthy addition to your dog’s diet. It’s important to avoid vegetables that are high in phosphorus, such as spinach or sweet potatoes, as well as vegetables that are toxic to dogs, such as onions or garlic.