According to Healthy Happy Dogs, your dog may not exhibit any symptoms of kidney failure until he has lost 75 percent of his kidney function. A healthy diet is necessary in order to keep your dog's kidneys functioning properly. If you suspect a kidney problem in your dog, call your veterinarian. Treatment options may include conventional medicines, alternative therapies and supplements.
Instructions
Prevention
Feed your dog ample fatty foods. According to dogaware.com, dogs require animal fats for proper kidney function, unlike humans. Look for foods with beef, lamb, chicken, turkey, whole milk and eggs.
Skip the dry food, especially if your dog has a pre-existing kidney problem, as it can increase a dog's chance of becoming dehydrated. Choose wet foods to help keep your dog hydrated.
Feed your dog foods that are low in phosphorus. According to Healthy Happy Dogs, phosphorus build-up in the kidneys is a common problem in dogs. Beef is the best choice if you are looking for a low-phosphorus food.
Avoid omega-6 fatty acids, such as those found in vegetables and fish. Dogaware.com says omega-6 fatty acids inhibit kidney function in dogs.
Treatment
Administer medication, per your veterinarian's instructions, which may include Azodyl, Epakitin, phosphate binders or Calcitriol. The vet may even prescribe special kidney-friendly foods for your dog.
Give your dog an omega-3 fatty acid supplement, with your veterinarian's consent. According to Healthy Happy Dogs, omega-3 fatty acids help reduce kidney inflammation.
Supplement your dog's diet with vitamins B and C. Healthy Happy Dogs reports that dogs with kidney problems typically lack these vitamins.
Give your dog an herbal supplement that is marketed to help improve canine kidney function, such as Renal Essentials, Only Natural Pet Kidney Remedy, Renagen or Renafood.