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Why is my 6-year-old Golden Retriever's kidney failing and anemic?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Male | unneutered | 4 years old | 35 lbs

Could you please Help me understand the problem and cause with my 6 yrs old golden retriever. Thank you

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1 Answer

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Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 20th, 2020

Hi there and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to address your concern. Based on the blood results, I am concerned about the kidneys as it looks like Doyle is in renal failure with the high BUN and Creatinine. The anemia and high WBC count are also concerning. The anemia may be due to a chronic infection, the renal failure or auto-immune. I would recommend further testing such as x-rays and abdominal ultrasound. Is it possible that Doyle may have eaten something toxic to cause the renal failure? I would pursue further diagnostic testing to rule other causes out. Run some infectious disease panels such as panels to check for tick borne infections as well. Chronic ehrlichiosis (tick borne disease) can lead to renal failure in some cases as well as the anemia and high WBC count. I hope this helps and hope Doyle gets better soon. You may consider an internal medicine specialist for Doyle as well.

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