Chronic Kidney Disease in Older German Shepherds
Updated: Oct 6
Chronic kidney disease, a kidney condition that develops over time, is common in older German Shepherds. As our dogs age, their organs don't function as well as they used to. This can lead to a build-up of toxins in their system and, eventually, kidney failure. While we can't always prevent kidney disease, we can do things to help our German Shepherds live longer, healthier lives.
In this Life With Old Dogs post, we'll cover what you should know about chronic kidney disease in older German Shepherds.
Our beautiful boy, Champ, had chronic kidney disease, and eventually, we had to say goodbye.
What Causes Chronic Kidney Disease in Older German Shepherds?
The kidneys are a crucial part of the body's filtration system. They do a tremendous amount of work. They filter waste products from the bloodstream, help regulate fluids and electrolytes, influence blood pressure, contribute to red blood cell production, and help maintain the body's internal balance.
Many factors can cause chronic kidney disease in older German Shepherds. Some of the most common include genetic factors, chronic inflammation, cancer, issues with protein, dental disease, and, simply put, the kidneys wearing out due to age.
There are several stages of chronic kidney disease, which are illustrated below.
Credit: International Renal Interest Society
What Are The Signs Of Chronic Kidney Disease in Older German Shepherds?
Drinking excessively or not enough
Weight loss
Loss of appetite
Nausea/vomiting
Diarrhea
Urinating in the house
Excessive urinating (or not urinating enough)
Bad breath (chemical smell)
Excessive sleeping (Lethargy)
Depression
Mouth sores
Pale gums
Poor coat appearance
Abnormal swelling
Visible pain and discomfort
Inability to walk properly
Seizures
Champ slept quite a bit toward the end of his battle with kidney disease.
How Is Chronic Kidney Disease Diagnosed?
Veterinarians diagnose chronic kidney disease through lab work that evaluates your older German Shepherd's blood and urine. The urine test is called a "urine analysis," which can help determine whether the kidneys are functioning correctly and provide evidence of other problems, such as infections or excessive protein loss through your pet's urethra (urethrae).
Treatment of Chronic Kidney Disease:
Treatment depends on your older German Shepherd's overall health, but the primary focus is to slow the disease's progression.
Some methods used to slow progression are:
Incorporate a therapeutic diet specific for Chronic Kidney disease (reduced amounts of sodium, protein & phosphorus, and more Omega-3 fatty acids)
Medication to treat symptoms
Nutritional supplements
Fluid therapy via an IV
Maintain appropriate electrolyte levels
Dialysis
A few foods I would be particularly cautious about making major staples are organ meats, bones/bone meal, large amounts of dairy, and large servings of meat, because phosphorus can become a major concern in CKD. The goal is not to eliminate protein entirely; dogs still need adequate high-quality protein and calories, especially because older CKD dogs are vulnerable to muscle loss and weight loss.
“Think, topper, not homemade prescription diet.” For example, a veterinarian-approved renal food topped with a little cooked egg white, blueberries, green beans, zucchini, or another appropriate fresh food is a very different proposition from replacing the renal diet with a bowl of chicken, rice, and vegetables.
Prevention of Chronic Kidney Disease in Older German Shepherds
While it is difficult to prevent, regular wellness exams with your trusted veterinarian can help you detect chronic kidney disease symptoms early, so treatment can begin quickly and prolong your older German Shepherd's life.
Prognosis for Older German Shepherds With Chronic Kidney Disease
If your older German Shepherd shows signs of kidney disease, a veterinarian should check them out as soon as possible to discuss testing and treatment options. Early intervention is vital to give your fur friend the best possible chance at a long, healthy life.
Kidney disease is a serious condition that can be fatal in older German Shepherds if left untreated.
Unfortunately, kidneys generally can't regenerate function, so there is currently there is no cure.
Tips:
Because your older German Shepherd with chronic kidney disease can't concentrate his urine effectively, ALWAYS have plenty of fresh water on hand for him.
Consider incorporating wet food such as canned (CKD-appropriate) to sneak in more water (moisture) into the older German Shepherd.
What to look for in food:
A kidney support diet for dogs with CKD will contain the following key components on a dry matter basis:
Protein 14-20% Phosphorus 0.2 - 0.5% Sodium ≤ 0.3% Omega-3 fatty acids 0.4 - 2.5%
(According to VCA Animal Hospital)
Increased levels of Omega-3 fatty acids help reduce inflammation and support kidney health.
Increase water-soluble vitamins that are lost through urination, such as B vitamins
Incorporate vitamins such as C, E, beta-carotene, and lutein for their antioxidant properties, which help fight against cell damage and promote immune health.
To see the complete IRIS guide for Chronic Kidney Disease in cats and dogs, click on the link:
To listen to the Life With Old Dogs podcast that coincides with this blog post, click on the link: https://pdcn.co/e/www.buzzsprout.com/1771634/10184759-chronic-kidney-disease-in-senior-german-shepherds.mp3?download=true
Disclaimer: Throughout the "20 Most Common Health Issues in Senior German Shepherds" series, each blog post is expressed explicitly from our point of view and is not to be substituted for the professional medical expertise of your trusted veterinarian.
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