8 Best Treats for Dogs with Kidney Disease (Yummy & Kidney-Friendly)

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a common ailment among dogs, affecting an estimated 1 in 10 dogs over the age of 10. While there is no cure for CKD, proper management can help slow its progression and improve your dog's quality of life. Diet plays a crucial role in CKD management, and choosing the right treats is essential to avoid aggravating the condition.

What to Look for in Treats for Dogs with Kidney Disease

When selecting treats for dogs with CKD, it's important to consider the following factors:

• Low Phosphorus and Sodium: Phosphorus and sodium can increase the workload on the kidneys.
• High Moisture Content: Treats with high moisture content can help maintain hydration, which is important for CKD dogs.
• Palatability: CKD dogs may have decreased appetites, so choosing treats that they find appetizing is crucial.

5 Tips for Choosing the Best Treats

1. Check the Ingredient List: Make sure the treats contain low levels of phosphorus and sodium.
2. Consider the Calorie Content: Choose treats that are low in calories to avoid weight gain.
3. Offer as Occasional Treats: Treats should be given sparingly and not as a substitute for a balanced diet.
4. Consult with Your Veterinarian: Before introducing any new treats, consult with your veterinarian to ensure they are appropriate for your dog's individual needs.
5. Monitor Your Dog: Observe your dog's reaction to treats and adjust the quantity or type if necessary.

4 Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Giving Treats with High Phosphorus and Sodium: This can worsen CKD by increasing the workload on the kidneys.
2. Overfeeding Treats: Too many treats can lead to weight gain and other complications.
3. Offering Treats That Are Not Kidney-Friendly: Some treats, such as those with high salt, fat, or sugar content, can be harmful to CKD dogs.
4. Not Consulting with Your Veterinarian: Always consult with your veterinarian before introducing any new treats to your dog's diet.

Why Treats Matter for Dogs with Kidney Disease

Benefits:

• Provide essential nutrients and hydration
• Maintain electrolyte balance
• Offer mental stimulation and enrichment
• Aid in weight management

8 Best Treats for Dogs with Kidney Disease

1. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Chicken Grain-Free Dog Treats

• 49 calories per treat
• Low phosphorus (0.3%) and sodium (0.05%)
• High moisture content (36%)

2. The Honest Kitchen Whole Grain Chicken Dog Treats

• 60 calories per treat
• Low phosphorus (0.3%) and sodium (0.05%)
• High moisture content (35%)
• Made with real chicken and organic brown rice

3. Instinct Grain-Free Freeze-Dried Raw Beef Dog Treats

• 75 calories per treat
• Low phosphorus (0.3%) and sodium (0.05%)
• No added fillers or preservatives
• Made with real beef

4. Ziwi Peak Air-Dried Beef Dog Treats

• 140 calories per treat
• Low phosphorus (0.3%) and sodium (0.05%)
• High in protein (44%)
• Made with human-grade New Zealand beef

5. Stella & Chewy's Freeze-Dried Raw Chicken Dog Treats

• 50 calories per treat
• Low phosphorus (0.2%) and sodium (0.05%)
• High moisture content (35%)
• Made with real chicken and organic vegetables

6. Weruva Slide N' Serve Grain-Free Chicken Dog Treats

• 25 calories per treat
• Low phosphorus (0.2%) and sodium (0.05%)
• High moisture content (40%)
• Made with real chicken and cage-free eggs

7. Addiction Premium Grain-Free Lamb & Sweet Potato Dog Treats

• 50 calories per treat
• Low phosphorus (0.3%) and sodium (0.05%)
• High in fiber (4%)
• Made with real lamb and sweet potato

8. Cloud Star Boutique Freeze-Dried Salmon Dog Treats

• 70 calories per treat
• Low phosphorus (0.3%) and sodium (0.05%)
• High in omega-3 fatty acids (18%)
• Made with real salmon

Table 1: Phosphorus Content in Common Dog Treats

Table 2: Sodium Content in Common Dog Treats

Table 3: Calorie Content in Common Dog Treats

Table 4: Moisture Content in Common Dog Treats

Conclusion

Choosing the right treats for dogs with kidney disease is essential to ensure their well-being. By considering the factors discussed in this article, pet owners can make informed decisions that support their furry friend's journey with CKD. Remember to consult with your veterinarian for personalized guidance and to monitor your dog's response to treats closely. With proper management, dogs with kidney disease can live long, happy, and healthy lives.