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My dog had diarrhea. Can dehydration raise kidney enzyme levels?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My 4 yr old border collie had diarrhoea for three days, so I took her to the vet and it was resolved overnight with chicken and rice diet and pro kolin. At the same appointment we did bloods and unfortunately her kidney enzymes were very high. Her bloods were retested twice more over a four day period and the enzymes came down within range. An ultrasound to check kidneys was normal and no cultures found in urine. Could the bad blood tests been due to dehydration?

1 Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on March 26th, 2023

I'm sorry that your pup had diarrhea but I'm glad it resolved! Yes dehydration can cause abnormal kidney values. BUN (blood urea nitrogen) and creatinine can both be high in dogs who are dehydrated from non-kidney related illnesses, such as diarrhea (and vomiting). It's a good sign that her bloodwork is now normal. I hope this helps!

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