What Are the Causes of High Protein in a Dog's Blood?

High protein blood levels, known as proteinuria, in dogs can lead to premature kidney disease or failure. If a pet drinks a lot of water and urinates frequently it is important to make a veterinary appointment as soon as possible. Regular six month check-ups with a good veterinarian can prevent the development of kidney disease.

  1. Over-Stimulation of the Immune System

    • High protein in the blood of a dog can indicate that the immune system is being over-stimulated. Lyme disease, chronic skin diseases, chronic intestinal disease or diabetes can affect and damage the kidneys. The kidneys are unable to filter or flush completely, causing them shut down.

    Auto-Immune Disease

    • Lupus is a rare blood disease in dogs that can cause premature kidney failure and is indicated by high protein levels in the blood or urine. Antibodies form and attack healthy tissue -- in other words the dog becomes allergic to its own skin. Veterinary treatment for lupus in dogs is usually very successful.

    Chronic Interstitial Nephritis

    • High protein levels can indicate chronic interstitial nephritis. This disease has several causes, including diet, infection, or an allergic reaction to medications. The condition is treatable, once the veterinarian identifies the cause of the nephritis. One treatment option is to limit salt or protein in the pet's diet.

    Congenital or Inherited Disorder

    • A signal that a dog may be ill is by the veterinarian discovering high protein levels in the blood or urine of the dog. In some cases, a puppy is born with kidney problems. Symptoms tend to develop around four months of age; however in some cases symptoms do not arise until the puppy is two or three years old. Unfortunately, congenital renal failure is not treatable and often fatal.

    Old Age

    • High protein levels can indicate potential kidney damage or failure. As dogs age, the kidneys are the first major organs to begin shutting down. The dog may suddenly become incontinent or have less urine output. The condition is fatal; however, a veterinarian can advise of the steps an owner may take to make the dog comfortable.

    Amyloidosis

    • High protein levels may indicate amyloidosis. Amyloidosis is the development of abnormal deposits of protein in the kidneys and leads to kidney failure. This is usually a result of old age in dogs and may begin at age nine or older. A veterinarian may prescribe a special diet, low aspirin dosage or hormonal therapy. The condition is manageable, but fatal. Consult with a veterinarian on the best treatment plan for the dog.