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Why is my dog with kidney disease losing weight on homemade food?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | 31 lbs

Hello, my 7 year old dog was recently told her kidneys aren’t working the same. Although with care her bun levels are within normal range and her creatinine levels are stable. I recently started giving her home made meals which are kidney friendly. she has a big appetite and always eat all her food but I’ve noticed she’s lost some weight is this normal because of the diet or should I be concerned? Appetite has not changed and is eating really well. Thank you!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

Veterinarian

Published on May 14th, 2019

It may be that the diet is not providing the same amount of calories - home diets should always be formulated by a nutritionist to prevent any excesses/deficiencies. I recommend you get the formualtion checked by a specialist nutritionist (Tufts university provide specifically for such cases) to ensure she is receiving all the nutrition she requires - often increasing fat content slightly can help in such cases. Although kidney disease can cause weight loss this would be uncommon if she is otherwise well, not vomiting and her appetite is good

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