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My dog has skin issues. Why is urine protein high on hydrolyzed food?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Large (61lb +) | Female | spayed | 8 years old | 80 lbs

For the past 1 1/2 my 8 year old Lab mix has had skin issues. We have spent thousands on allergy tests, skin biophys and other tests. All which come back negative or show inflammation. She is otherwise healthy and has never had an abnormal blood test result. The vet suggested we feed her Royal Canin Hydrolyzed Protein dog food. Now her most recent urinalysis showed an elevated level of protein in her urine. I am at a loss.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ana M, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 5th, 2018

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Oaklee. That particular diet is great for skin disease and is worth a try if you have not had luck with her previous treatments. The protein in the urine is unlikely related to the skin disease. It can mean several things. First, if she has a urinary tract infection, that will increase the protein level in the urine. If this is not the case based on the urinalysis, then I recommend a test known as a urine protein creatinine ratio to measure the exact amount of protein in the urine. If this ratio comes back elevated, then she will need treatment to help limit the protein loss in the urine as it is an indicator of kidney disease in a dog. I typically will measure blood pressure next and run bloodwork if it has not been done recently. Then I will start a medication. I hope this information helps!

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