Dog Food for Renal Failure

If your dog is in renal failure, a proper diet could help its kidneys recover. Look for foods with low phosphorus and low protein but ample carbohydrates, fatty acids, calcitrol herbs and vitamins.

  1. Phosphorus

    • Food for a dog with renal failure should contain low amounts of phosphorous. This has been proven to slow down kidney decay and improve the survival rate.

    Protein

    • Dogs in renal failure or with kidney disease should eat less protein. High amounts of protein can be hard for a failing kidney to process. Replace proteins with fats from carbohydrates.

    Fatty Acids

    • Some research has shown that adding omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to a dog's diet can help with kidney disease, according to doghealthguide.org. These are present in safflower and corn oil.

    Calcitrol

    • Studies have shown that calcitrol also could help dogs in renal failure. Calcitrol is a hormone that aids dogs in absorbing calcium.

    Herbs and Vitamins

    • Natural dietary supplements should not be overlooked when designing a diet for a dog in renal failure. Some herbs to look for are burdock, dandelion and cleaver, which provide vitamin D. Vitamin D is normally produced by ahealthy kidney to help absorb calcium. Supplemental vitamin D can help a failing kidney by preventing calcium buildup.