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My dog has kidney failure. What's the best protein diet for him?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 8 years and 1 month old | 37 lbs

How much protein should a dog that weighs 37 lbs be given if he has chronic kidney failure?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on April 21st, 2017

HE should be on a low protein diet, preferably a prescription diet for kidneys (such as Renal from Royal Canine). you won't find an over the counter food that is suitable for this condition. homemade diet is also an option, you can find some ideas here: http://eatswritesshoots.com/2014/06/16/recipe-for-low-phosphorus-dog-food-caring-for-a-dog-with-chronic-renal-failure/

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 20th, 2017

    I would definitely go with the Royal Canin Renal support. This food is specifically formulated for dogs with kidney failure. The problem with a homemade diet is that it is extremely difficult to get the correct balance of nutrients, and you could accidentally end up giving him too much phosphorus in trying to meet his other nutritional needs. Too much phosphorous is detrimental to his kidneys while they are failing, and it's best to stay with a specially formulated food recommended by your vet. Keep in mind as well that the information you are getting from the internet is not typically provided by vets, but rather lay people who have no training in animal health or nutrition. In my opinion, when it comes to the health of your dog, it's best to listen to the experts who have done the training and have the knowledge to correctly treat your dog, who is the vet. I hope this helps you!

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    Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 19th, 2019

    I think giving Sooky royal canin renal food every day is a good diet for him if he has kidney problems. There is also science diet K/D. You want a diet that is lower in phosphorus and protein to make it easier on the kidneys to digest. I would also recommend to feed canned food if possible as this helps to increase moisture in the diet and helps to flush the kidneys. I hope this helps!

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I would definitely go with the Royal Canin Renal support. This food is specifically formulated for dogs with kidney failure. The problem with a homemade diet is that it is extremely difficult to get the correct balance of nutrients, and you could accidentally end up giving him too much phosphorus in trying to meet his other nutritional needs. Too much phosphorous is detrimental to his kidneys while they are failing, and it's best to stay with a specially formulated food recommended by your vet. Keep in mind as well that the information you are getting from the internet is not typically provided by vets, but rather lay people who have no training in animal health or nutrition. In my opinion, when it comes to the health of your dog, it's best to listen to the experts who have done the training and have the knowledge to correctly treat your dog, who is the vet. I hope this helps you!
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‏I want to know what the correct nutrition and the types of food I give my dog ​​who has a problem in the kidneys except the dry food ‏Because I will give him 6 days in the week of dry food for kidney problems
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