Chronic renal failure in dogs is a lasting condition in which the kidneys are not working properly to support a high quality of life for the animal. It is common among all canine breeds.
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Significance
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As in humans, the canine kidneys filter waste products from the blood and expels them via the urinary system. When the kidneys are impaired, toxins accumulate in the blood.
Effects
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Chronic renal failure in dogs has a negative effect on all their other body systems, including impairment of blood filtration, hormone production and electrolyte balance.
Causes
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Causes of chronic renal failure in dogs include exposure to toxins, an impaired circulatory system, infections and cancer.
Symptoms
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The symptoms of CRF in dogs can include excessive drinking, increased urination, depression, lethargy, bad breath and vomiting.
Expert Insight
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Certain breeds are more susceptible to chronic renal failure than others. These include the cocker spaniel, Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, Norwegian elkhound, doberman pinscher, golden retriever, bull terrier, Cairn terrier, German shepherd and samoyed.
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