Different Stages of Chronic Kidney Disease in Dogs

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a gradual disease that affects dogs irrespective of their breed or age. The kidneys slowly become incapable of removing toxins from the blood, resulting in the accumulation of waste products and disruption of the fluid balance. Knowing the stages of chronic kidney disease in dogs can really assist pet parents and veterinarians in detecting issues early. Besides, it can make it simpler to adopt measures to delay kidney function decline in dogs. 

From my years of veterinary practice, I have found that CKD generally progresses very slowly, and its symptoms can vary depending on the stage of the disease.

Let’s explore how chronic kidney disease progresses in dogs, from early to advanced stages. The different stages of chronic kidney disease in dogs are early CKD (stage 1), mild CKD (stage 2), moderate CKD (stage 3), and severe CKD (stage 4).

Stage 1: Early CKD 

The kidney damage is actually there in stage 1, but it hardly ever gets noticed. The dog might look completely okay, and the signs of illness will be very slight. A blood test may show just a little increase in the waste products, like creatinine or BUN.

By watching your dog very closely, you will be able to catch slight changes in their energy or appetite which otherwise wouldn’t be noticed.

Signs to watch out for:

• Little changes in thirst or urination
• Mild signs of tiredness
• less appetite ( barely noticeable)

Recommended actions:

• Maintain a balanced diet and drinking routine
• Watch weight and energy levels
• Book regular veterinary tests

I have observed that some dogs show slight changes in appetite weeks before lab results show kidney stress. Owners who notice these small signs can make dietary changes early. This may help slow the progression of CKD.

This early intervention will help the owners come up with a plan and thereby save the kidney function before any signs are noticeable.

Stage 2: Mild CKD

Stage 2 is the phase that marks the onset of minor indicators of the disease. Canines are likely to exhibit mild symptoms during this stage that may be confused with a lack of energy and mood swings. Blood tests usually show moderate increases in kidney markers during this stage. This indicates the need for close monitoring and management.

Signs to watch for: 

•  Increased thirst and urination 
•  Mild loss of appetite 
•  Slight decrease in energy 

Recommended actions: 

• Adjust protein and phosphorus intake in the diet

• Monitor blood pressure and kidney function regularly

• Schedule routine veterinary visits

From my clinical experience, using management strategies in stage 2, like dietary changes and early medication if necessary, can effectively slow disease progression.

Veterinarians and vet techs can also join a CKD in dogs educational webinar to get useful tips and methods for managing CKD in their patients.  Implementing management strategies during stage 2 can be effective in delaying the disease’s progression. Moreover, it equips veterinarians for the next stage. 

Stage 3: Moderate CKD 

At stage 3, CKD is a serious condition. Kidneys work only partly, and complications are likely to occur. Canines in this stage need the help of a veterinarian constantly so that the disease is managed and no more damage is done.

Interventions that are made on time are very important to maintain the quality of life and delay the process of developing advanced kidney failure.

Signs to watch for:

• Diminished desire to eat and loss of weight
• Sickness or throwing up
• More frequent urination and drinking

Recommended actions:

• Implement a kidney-supportive diet prescribed by your vet
• Give medications as instructed
• Watch out for anemia or high blood pressure

Stage 3 is more challenging, but proper management can provide comfort and maintain the quality of life. As CKD progresses beyond stage 3, the kidneys face even greater strain, making vigilant care essential as the disease advances to stage 

Stage 4: Severe CKD

Stage 4 is the final and most advanced stage of CKD (chronic kidney disease) when the kidneys are already severely damaged and mostly not functional anymore. The organs are unable to eliminate toxins from the body properly, and the chances of serious complications occurring are extremely high.

At this point, the kidneys are severely damaged beyond repair. In the absence of meticulous care, the complications will be serious and possibly lead to death.  In my practice, palliative care and close monitoring at stage 4 are essential for ensuring comfort and dignity. Communication with owners about prognosis helps make informed care decisions.

Signs to watch for:

• Significant weakness
• Continuous throwing up or passing watery feces
• Quick loss of weight

Recommended actions: 

• Administer fluid therapy and medications
• Adopt special diets that are meant for kidney support
• Practice palliative care to ensure comfort

In the fourth stage, where the kidneys are heavily impaired, the emphasis is no longer on delaying the disease but on ensuring a good life. Knowing how long the patient might live and the prognosis helps both owners and vets to choose the right way for the patient to continue receiving care.

Life Expectancy and Outlook

The duration of life varies according to the stage of diagnosis, the health condition, and the breed of the dog. Early diagnosed dogs can live for some years and have a good quality of life, while those diagnosed at later stages may need intensive care.

Recognizing the condition at an early stage helps to slow down the degeneration of kidney function in dogs and leads to better outcomes. This also leads to the final takeaway.

Final Takeaway

The collaborative effort of veterinarians, vet technicians, and pet owners is the secret to the successful management of CKD. I’ve seen firsthand how dogs thrive when subtle changes in their behavior are noticed early and addressed promptly.

The treatment includes not only diet and hydration but also regular observation of the patient’s symptoms, laboratory tests, and kidney status. By paying attention to these minute details, it becomes easier for the vets to make quick decisions and avoid serious problems.

Using veterinary medical record software makes it easy for vets and staff to keep accurate records of each patient. This makes sure nothing is overlooked, and care remains coordinated. 

Hence, by monitoring changes closely, both vets and pet owners help keep dogs with CKD healthy, comfortable, and safe.