Beyond Prescription Diets: Holistic Help for Canine Kidney Care

Kidney health in dogs is an important yet often overlooked aspect of long-term wellbeing, especially as they age or face health challenges. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is one of the most common conditions affecting senior dogs, but it can also occur in younger pets in some instances. While conventional veterinary care remains essential, many pet parents are now turning to integrative strategies, including natural supplements and dietary support to help slow progression, improve comfort, and support quality of life.

What Is CKD & How Common Is It in Dogs?

CKD refers to the gradual and irreversible decline in kidney function over time. The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste products from the bloodstream, balancing electrolytes, regulating blood pressure, and producing essential hormones. When kidney function declines, waste builds up in the body, while compounds required by the body (e.g., water and protein) are depleted, leading to a range of potentially serious symptoms.

The incidence of CKD rises with age, affecting approximately 15% of dogs over the age of 10. However, younger dogs can also develop kidney problems due to hereditary factors, certain medications, or acute injury to the kidneys (also known as acute kidney injury, or AKI, which can sometimes transition into CKD).

Causes of CKD in Dogs

There is no single cause of chronic kidney disease, but common contributing factors include:

• Age-related degeneration: Natural wear and tear on the kidneys over time
• Toxin exposure: Ingestion of harmful substances like antifreeze, grapes/raisins, certain medications, or contaminated water
• Genetic predisposition: Some breeds, such as Cocker Spaniels, Shih Tzus, and Bull Terriers, are more susceptible
• Chronic infections: For example, repeated or untreated urinary tract infections, which can ascend to the kidneys
• Autoimmune disease or inflammation: In some cases, the immune system may attack kidney tissue
• Other chronic diseases: Conditions like heart disease or diabetes can place strain on kidney function

Signs and Symptoms of CKD in Dogs

Because kidney disease progresses gradually, early symptoms are often subtle. Common signs include:

• Increased thirst and urination
• Decreased appetite
• Weight loss
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Bad breath with a metallic or ammonia-like smell
• Lethargy
• Muscle weakness
• Oral ulcers

If your dog is showing any of these signs, especially in combination, it’s important to consult your vet for bloodwork and urinalysis, which can confirm the diagnosis and help determine the stage of disease.

Four Natural Solutions to Support Kidney Health in Dogs

While CKD cannot be cured, it can be managed. A number of natural remedies can support kidney function, protect against further damage, and ease common symptoms.

1. Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum)

Milk thistle is a well-known liver tonic, but it also plays a key role in kidney support. Its primary active compounds, collectively referred to as ‘silymarin’, help reduce oxidative stress, stabilise cell membranes, and support the elimination of metabolic waste. A pure, canine-safe preparation such as Milk Thistle can also assist with detoxification following medication or toxin exposure, making it especially useful for dogs on long-term drugs.

2. Palmitoylethanolamide (P.E.A)

P.E.A is a naturally occurring compound with powerful anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It has been shown to support kidney function by reducing inflammation, improving blood vessel health, and helping regulate blood pressure. These effects are even stronger when P.E.A is paired with antioxidants like silymarin. A high-purity formulation such as P.E.A Plus can help lower inflammatory burden without placing added strain on the kidneys, and is also beneficial for joint pain and age-related inflammation.

3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Marine-based omega-3s, especially EPA and DHA from sources like green-lipped mussel and krill oil, can slow the progression of kidney disease by reducing inflammation and improving blood circulation to the kidneys. A bioavailable supplement such as Antinol® Plus provides these fatty acids in a form that is easy for dogs to absorb and utilise.

4. Gut Support

Dogs with reduced kidney function often experience digestive upset, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, or loss of appetite. Targeted herbs and nutrients — such as slippery elm (Ulmus rubra), L-glutamine, marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis), deglycyrrhizinated (DGL) licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) and Saccharomyces boulardii — are commonly used to soothe the gastrointestinal tract, support the mucosal lining, and rebalance the microbiome. Depending on the dog’s needs, products like Gut Restore and Gut Protect offer targeted therapeutic support using different evidence-based combinations of these ingredients.

How Does Diet Influence CKD Progression in Dogs?

Diet plays a central role in managing canine kidney disease. While prescription kidney diets have a place in treatment, many pet parents now seek out more holistic, high-quality food options that emphasise fresh, minimally processed ingredients. Some general guidelines include:

• Controlled protein: Moderate amounts of highly digestible, high-quality protein (e.g. skinless chicken breast, skinless turkey breast, cooked egg whites)
• Lower phosphorus: Helps reduce the load on damaged kidneys. Boiling meat can lower the phosphorus load relative to protein (≈40–60% phosphorus reduction with smaller protein losses in beef/chicken). Additionally, smaller cut size increases mineral loss, so chopping or slicing before boiling can enhance leaching
• Balanced electrolytes: Typically, lower sodium and individualised potassium
• Hydration: Adding water or bone broth to food can help keep your dog hydrated and improve appetite
• Incorporate moisture-rich foods: Fresh, raw ingredients like organic lean meat provide hydration and are naturally low in phosphorus (especially when muscle meat is used), making them kidney-friendly when properly balanced
• Minimise kibble: Kibble is extremely low in moisture and often high in carbohydrates and synthetic additives, which can place unnecessary strain on kidney function and increase systemic inflammation

Choosing species-appropriate raw or lightly cooked food, formulated with veterinary guidance, can make a meaningful difference in energy levels, appetite, and overall wellbeing.

Final Thoughts

Kidney health in dogs requires a proactive, supportive approach, especially as they age. If your dog has been diagnosed with kidney disease, the right combination of veterinary care, natural supplements, and a nourishing diet can help manage symptoms and slow disease progression. With the right tools, many dogs with CKD can continue to enjoy a happy, comfortable life for years to come.

For tailored advice, consult with your vet or a qualified natural medicine practitioner experienced in canine kidney support. If you’d like individualised guidance, our team also offers online consultations - learn more here.