11 Best Low Phosphorus Dog Foods

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How Can I Lower My Dog's Phosphorus Naturally?

1 in 10 dogs suffers from kidney disease, which is why early detection is critical to slowing the disease’s progress.

Though phosphorus is a required mineral, it has the potential to be harmful to dog health at large doses. Too much phosphorus can induce renal failure.(1)

 While kidney failure is a serious problem, proper nutrition can help you manage it.

Low-phosphorus meals can drastically enhance your dog’s kidney health, they assist to keep your dog’s disease from getting worse by reducing the kidney’s work load.

Video: Understanding Kidney Disease in Pets

Table of Contents

What is Considered Low Phosphorus in Dog Food?

In order to be considered low in phosphorus, the dog food must contain less than 0.4 percent phosphorus. In contrast, regular dog food may contain as much as 3 percent phosphorus!

Over time, too much phosphorus in your dog’s food can lead to kidney problems or bladder stones.

A high phosphorus dog dog with an elevated phosphorus level in his blood may experience the following symptoms:

 

  • increased thirst and urination,
  • diluted urine,
  • dehydration, 
  • inappropriate urination
Best Dog Treats For Sensitive Stomachs - Dog Food Specialist
Over time, too much phosphorus in your dog's food can lead to kidney problems or bladder stones.

How Much Phosphorus is Allowed On A Renal Diet For Dogs?

The NRC recommends feeding no more than 22.25 mg/kg phosphorus daily (about 10 mg per pound of body weight) to dogs with advanced kidney failure. Early-stage dogs can consume up to 60 mg/kg of phosphorus (or 30 mg/lbs).  

Is Chicken Good for Dogs with Kidney Disease?

It is not recommended for pets with kidney problems to consume chicken, turkey, pork, and seafood due to their high levels of phosphorus.

Your veterinarian can help you choose phosphorus, potassium, and fatty acid formulations that are right for your pet.

chicken free dog food

What Meat is Best for Dogs With Kidney Issues?

The best food for your dog is fresh, cooked, moisture-rich, lean protein sources, such as chicken breasts or turkey breasts, or defatted beef.

The best low-phosphorus foods to eat for kidney health:
 
Meat or Poultry Phosphorus Content
Beef, sirloin steak 195 mg
Chicken breast, skinless 190 mg
Chicken thigh, skinless 150 mg
Hamburger patty, 90 percent lean 170 mg
mixture of high protein meats
The best food for your dog is fresh, cooked, moisture-rich, lean protein sources, such as chicken breasts or turkey breasts, or defatted beef.

What is the Best Dog Food for Kidney Disease?

Prescription diets are the most secure low phosphorus options, which must be administered by a veterinarian.

Puppies should not consume these recipes since an insufficient supply of this mineral might result in bone issues.

Limiting phosphorus has been shown in studies to slow the progression of kidney disease, improve mineral and bone problems, and improve cardiovascular health.

I’m a veterinarian technician who spent months investigating the greatest low phosphorus dog foods in order to help you find a suitable diet for your special needs dog.

Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet Kidney Support Dog Food is my top pick for the finest overall food for dogs on low phosphorus diets.

However, certain dogs with kidney failure have additional requirements.

As a result, I’ve compiled a list of the top low phosphorus recipes for each dog.

dog eating from bowl
Limiting phosphorus has been shown in studies to slow the progression of kidney disease, improve mineral and bone problems, and improve cardiovascular health.

What is the Best Dog Food for Kidney Issues?

These diets are formulated to help dogs with CKD avoid metabolic acidosis and are available from your veterinarian. Examples include Hill’s® Prescription Diet® k/d®, Royal Canin® Veterinary Diet Canine Renal Support, Purina® ProPlan® Veterinary Diet NF Kidney Function®, and Rayne Clinical Nutrition™ Adult Health-RSS™

How Can I Improve My Dog's Kidney Function?

How to keep your dog’s kidneys healthy:
  • Maintain good circulation and hydration
  • Feed the right food
  • Support anti-inflammatory and antioxidant processes. (2)
  • Ensure that micronutrients are balanced
  • Microbiome is important! (3)

A recent scientific study reports that 70% to 80% of all illness begins in the gastrointestinal tract! discover why this supplement is essential for your dog’s Microbiome and overall health.

Read our review on: The Best Probiotics for Dogs

boxer dog jumping in air in a field

Best Low Phosphorus Dog Food for Kidney Disease

Whether you go for dry food or wet food, one of the easiest ways for you to determine good dog food is by reading the label and looking out for the AAFCO  Statement. (4)

All of the dog foods on this list are in accordance with the AAFCO nutrient profile recommendations for dogs. (5)

Best Overall Low Phosphorus Dog Food

Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet Kidney Support Dog Food

  • First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Potato Starch, Pea Starch, Peas, Potatoes
  • Phosphorus Content: 0.55% Max
  • Guaranteed Analysis: 14% Crude Protein, 18% Crude Fat, 7% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
  • Caloric Content: 404 kcal/cup
  • Type of Product: Grain-Free, No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, Veterinary Diet
  • Life Stage: Adult
  • Best For Low phosphorus in dogs

Blue Buffalo’s kidney support formula provides the best overall nutritional support for dogs who need low phosphorus diets. This recipe features vital nutrients from natural ingredients like kelp and turmeric that support overall health and renal function.

Therapeutic controlled levels of minerals reduce kidney stress in dogs with renal conditions.

This low phosphorus dog food has a maximum phosphorus content of 0.55% and has only 0.25% sodium!

High levels of protein also place additional stress on the kidneys. The low 14% protein content from deboned chicken is safe for dogs with renal concerns but still provides enough essential amino acids for healthy muscle function. 

Added L-Carnitine helps promote lean muscle development in this low-protein dog food. Unlike some kidney support formulas, real meat is the first ingredient. This recipe is also grain-free, using potatoes as the primary source of digestible carbohydrates.

Fish oil and flaxseed act as sources of omega-3 fatty acids in this recipe. These healthy fats encourage natural oil production by the skin and help reduce inflammation. And natural fiber from chicory root helps regulate digestive systems to boost overall health further.

Dog owners prefer this low phosphorus dog food for sensitive dogs who have adverse reactions to grains and by-products. Many witnessed an improvement in the overall health of their pups with renal disease

Best Dog Food for Kidney Disease

Purina Pro Plan Plan Veterinary Diet NF Kidney Function Dog Food

  • First 5 Ingredients: Whole Grain Corn, Brewers Rice, Dried Egg Product, Animal Fat, Sugar
  • Phosphorus Content: 0.4% Max
  • Guaranteed Analysis: 12.5% Crude Protein, 13% Crude Fat, 2.5% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
  • Caloric Content: 478 kcal/cup
  • Type of Product: Low Protein, Pea-Free, Veterinary Diet
  • Life Stage: Adult
  • Best For Premium Low-Phosphorus Dog Food

This premium product from the Purina Pro Plan line features a specialty formula designed by veterinarians and nutritionists to support kidney function. The low protein levels, phosphorus, and sodium make this prescription recipe ideal for pups with renal concerns.

12.5% protein content reduces protein waste that must be filtered by the kidneys. Eggs and whey provide complete sources of essential amino acids without drastically increasing protein percentages.

Instead of using meat as the first ingredient, this food features whole grains as the primary energy source. Your pup can easily digest whole grain corn and brewers rice, efficiently absorbing vitamins and minerals from these natural plant sources.

The inclusion of animal fat in this recipe makes the taste appealing to picky eaters. But vegetable and fish oils contribute most of the essential fatty acids present in this dog food’s low 13% fat content.

Although this product is more expensive than some competitors, veterinarians recommend it for the 0.4% maximum phosphorus and Low sodium content. But the low fiber and high sugar content may not be suitable for dogs with digestive issues.

Best Low Phosphorus Pre-mix Dog Food

Dr. Harvey’s Canine Health-The Miracle Dog Food Pre-Mix

  • First 5 Ingredients: Organic Rolled Oats, Organic Barley, Organic Triticale, Organic Spelt, Organic Brown Rice
  • Phosphorus Content: 0.4% Max
  • Guaranteed Analysis: 12% Crude Protein, 3% Crude Fat, 5% Crude Fiber, 12% Moisture
  • Type of Product: Organic dog-food Premix
  • Life Stage: Adult
  • Best For Premium Low-Phosphorus Dog Food

Canine Health is a natural, organic dog food pre-mix that, when mixed with protein and oil, makes a fresh, healthy, homemade meal. It is made from 6 certified organic grains, 9 vegetables, and 14 herbs. Known as ‘The Miracle’, it uses only the finest organic and all-natural human consumption ingredients to create a tasty pre-mix your dog will love.

Nutritional Profile Includes:

  • Holistic blend of 6 organic grains and 9 dehydrated vegetables.
  • Improves vitality, joint flexibility, digestion, and appetite.
  • Supports skin and coat health.
  • Loved by even the pickiest eaters.
  • No preservatives, dyes, or chemicals.
  • Green food pre-mix makes an ideal base for a nutritionally complete low-carb diet; 100% grain-free, our holistic blend of six (6) nutritious dehydrated vegetables contain absolutely no dies, fillers, wheat, corn, soy, nor preservatives
  • Easy to prepare a fresh, wholesome meal for your dog in a matter of minutes; just add hot water to the base mix, your choice of protein and oil, and you’re ready to serve your dog
  • Formulated with low glycemic vegetables which digest slowly to prevent glucose spike levels and low carbs for an optimal ketogenic diet
  • Proudly made in the USA, Paradigm empowers you to take your dog’s health into your own hands, and add a quality protein source that you pick and choose.

Best Low Phosphorus Dog Food for Joints

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult Lamb & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food

    • First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Lamb, Menhaden Fish Meal, Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Barley, Pea Starch
    • Phosphorus Content: 0.7% Min
    • Guaranteed Analysis: 22% Crude Protein, 14% Crude Fat, 5% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
    • Caloric Content: 388 kcal/cup
    • Type of Product: No Chicken By-Product meals, Corn, Wheat, Soy, Artificial Flavors or Preservatives
    • Life Stage: Adult
    • Best For Premium Low-Phosphorus Dog Food

    A NATURAL DOG FOOD, BLUE dry dog food is made with the finest natural ingredients enhanced with vitamins and minerals; BLUE contains NO chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives

    All formulas start with real meat, whole grains, garden veggies, and fruit, plus added LifeSource Bits, a precise blend of nutrients that have been enhanced with a Super 7 package of antioxidant-rich ingredients.

Nutritional Profile Includes:

  • REAL MEAT FIRST: Blue Buffalo foods always feature real meat as the first ingredient; High-quality protein from real lamb helps your dog build and maintain healthy muscles; Plus they contain wholesome whole grains, garden veggies, and fruit
  • ANTIOXIDANT-RICH LIFESOURCE BITS: A precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals carefully selected by holistic veterinarians and animal nutritionists to support immune system health, life stage needs, and a healthy oxidative balance
  • GLUCOSAMINE for joint health and mobility and Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat, plus CALCIUM & PHOSPHORUS and ESSENTIAL VITAMINS for strong bones and teeth.

Best Low Phosphorus Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs

Natural Balance L.I.D. Sweet Potato & Venison Formula

  • First 5 Ingredients: Sweet Potatoe, Venison, Pea Protein, Potatoe Protein, Canola Oil
  • Phosphorus Content: 0.6% Max
  • Guaranteed Analysis: 20% Crude Protein, 10% Crude Fat, 5% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
  • Caloric Content: 370 kcal/cup
  • Type of Product: Sensitive Stomachs, Allergies, Grain-Free
  • Life Stage: Adult
  • Best For Premium Low-Phosphorus Dog Food

This grain-free formula uses only a select few protein and carbohydrate sources, making it ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies to foods commonly used in dog kibble.

Omega-3 fatty acids from flaxseed nourish the skin and keep your pup’s coat shiny and healthy

Nutritional Profile Includes:

  • Made with real venison, which provides essential amino acids that help maintain strong muscles
  • With a single animal protein source, this formula is perfect for pups with food sensitivities.
  • A grain-free recipe with limited carbohydrates and no artificial flavors or colors.
  • Omega-3 fatty acid from flaxseed gives dogs a healthy and shiny coat.
  • Formulated with added taurine to help support your dog’s heart health
  • Formulated to provide high-quality nutrition for all breeds.

Best Low Phosphorus Dog Food For Large Breeds

Hill’s Prescription Diet Kidney Care Dog Food

  • First 5 Ingredients: Brown Rice, Brewers Rice, Pork Fat, Cracked Pearled Barley, Chicken
  • Phosphorus Content: 0.5% Max
  • Guaranteed Analysis: 12% Crude Protein, 18% Crude Fat, 5% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
  • Caloric Content: 402 kcal/cup
  • Type of Product: Pea-Free, Veterinary Diet
  • Life Stage: Adult
  • Best For Low-Phosphorus Dog Food for Large Breeds

Kidney disease can impact dogs of all sizes. But large breeds with renal issues need a diet that is also suitable for their unique nutritional needs.

This low phosphorus dry dog food has controlled mineral content, but still includes high-quality protein sources for dogs with large muscle mass.

A controlled protein content of 12% comes from real chicken. But the first ingredient in this recipe is brown rice.

Most other low phosphorus diets use corn as their primary ingredient, but rice’s lower energy content is more suitable for large breeds’ slower metabolisms.

Large dogs also often suffer from gastric issues like bloat. (6) The beet pulp and 5% fiber content of this recipe help nourish the good bacteria in your dog’s gut to prevent the buildup of gases responsible for this severe condition.

Therapeutic levels of l-carnitine also support lean muscle mass in large dogs. And high levels of omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil help reduce inflammation associated with common joint conditions in gentle giants.

Hill’s line of prescription dog food is clinically proven to lengthen the quality of your pup’s life. But some pet parents have difficulty getting picky pups to eat this formula.

Best Low Phosphorus Wet Dog Food

Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet Kidney Support Wet Food

  • First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Broth, Water, Potato Starch, Potatoes
  • Phosphorus Content: 0.08% Max
  • Guaranteed Analysis: 3% Crude Protein, 2.5% Crude Fat, 3% Crude Fiber. 78% Moisture
  • Caloric Content: 336 kcal/cup
  • Type of Product: Grain-free, No Corn, No Wheat, No Soy, Veterinary Diet
  • Life Stage: Adult
  • Best For Low-Phosphorus Wet Dog Food
  • Non Prescription Low Phosphorus Wet Dog Food

This grain-free, low phosphorus canned dog food from Blue Buffalo features a veterinary formula with natural ingredients that support optimal renal function. A canned pate recipe is an excellent option for picky dogs who won’t eat dry dog food.

The 78% moisture content of this low phosphorus wet dog food reduces the other crude macronutrient percentages compared to dry alternatives.

A controlled 3% protein content from real chicken provides a high-quality source of amino acids that won’t overload your pup’s kidneys.

A low 0.08% phosphorus content is also ideal for a dog’s kidney disease. Excess mineral content can stress renal function and cause kidney failure in these pups.

Sensitive pups with grain allergies may benefit from getting their daily carbohydrates from the potatoes in this recipe instead. Other vegetables like carrots and peas offer natural antioxidants that help protect tissue from free radical damage. (7)

L-carnitine promotes the development of lean muscle on a low protein diet. And omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil support skin and coat health to improve overall well-being.

Dog owners highly recommend this formula for other pet parents who struggle to get their dogs to eat different kinds of prescription food.

The exclusion of by-products and common allergens makes this canned dog food an ideal choice for dogs who suffer from allergic reactions.

Best Low Phosphorus Dog Food for Weight Management

Hill’s Prescription Diet C/D Multicare + Metabolic Dog Food

  • First 5 Ingredients: Brewers Rice, Corn Gluten Meal, Powdered Cellulose, Pea Fiber, Chicken Meal
  • Phosphorus Content: 0.45% Max
  • Guaranteed Analysis: 21% Crude Protein, 8.5% Crude Fat, 16% Crude Fiber. 10% Moisture
  • Caloric Content: 279 kcal/cup
  • Type of Product: Weight Control, Veterinary Diet
  • Life Stage: Adult
  • Best For: Low-Phosphorus Dog Food for Weight Control

Some more high-maintenance pups need special diets that can help address multiple health conditions.

This low fat low phosphorus prescription dog food provides a low-phosphorus diet that is also suitable for dogs with metabolic disorders.

Hill’s clinical formulas have a higher protein content than most kidney care products. But the controlled mineral content ensures that dogs at risk of kidney failure can safely eat this dry dog food.

Chicken meal contributes to the 21% protein content. This lean animal meat is ideal for dogs with weight and metabolic issues due to its low-fat content. Lean protein is the best energy source for dogs on weight control diets. (8)

The low caloric content and 8.5% crude fat content help reduce excess energy in overweight dogs’ diets.

This low-calorie diet is made possible by a high 16% fiber content from fruit and vegetables as fiber is not a source of energy for dogs.

Most pet parents who feed this dog food to their extra fluffy pups notice weight loss within 30 days. But unlike other weight control formulas, this dog food does not negatively impact kidney health.

Best Low Phosphorus High Protein Dog Food

Zignature Turkey Limited Ingredient Formula Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

  • First 5 Ingredients: Turkey, Turkey Meal, Chickpeas, Sunflower Oil, Flaxseed
  • Phosphorus Content: 0.45% Max
  • Guaranteed Analysis: 32% Crude Protein, 15% Crude Fat, 4% Crude Fiber. 10% Moisture
  • Caloric Content: 394 kcal/cup
  • Type of Product: Weight Control, Veterinary Diet
  • Life Stage: Adult
  • Best For: Low-Phosphorus Dog Food for Weight Control

This meat-first recipe offers pups the protein they need to thrive, while Zignature’s limited ingredient recipe throws out troublesome ingredients like chicken, corn, wheat, soy, and potatoes, creating peak hypoallergenic, low-glycemic nutrition.

Combine that with key antioxidants, essential fatty acids, and a complete spectrum of vitamins and minerals for a well-rounded meal that goes beyond nature to become your pet’s signature food for life.

Nutritional Profile includes:

  • This grain-free, limited ingredient formula is made with one protein source and only a handful of other ingredients, creating a clean recipe with ingredients you can count on.
  • Made with farm-raised Turkey from right here in the American Midwest.
  • As a natural source of prey in the wild, Turkey is an exceptional source of protein that’s also low in saturated fat, rich in Selenium, and a good source of Riboflavin and Phosphorus.
  • Free of the most common potential canine allergens: corn, wheat, soy, dairy, and chicken, making this recipe ideal for pups with sensitivities and picky eaters.
  • Wholesome peas and chickpeas round out the recipe with powerful antioxidants and fiber-rich, low-glycemic carbohydrates.

Best Low Phosphorus Dog Food for Joint Health

Hill’s Prescription Diet K/D MOBILITY Dog Food

  • First 5 Ingredients: Brewers Rice, Flaxseed, Pork Fat, Egg Product, Dried Beet Pulp
  • Phosphorus Content: 0.29% Min
  • Guaranteed Analysis: 15.3% Crude Protein, 23.6% Crude Fat, 3.9% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
  • Caloric Content: 496 kcal/cup
  • Type of Product: Pea-Free, Veterinary Diet
  • Life Stage: Adult
  • Best For: Low-Phosphorus Dog Food for Joint Health

Most dogs only develop chronic kidney disease as seniors. Your elderly companion is also likely to suffer from joint discomfort as he ages.

This prescription dog food formula uses therapeutic nutrition to address both health concerns.

This recipe features controlled phosphorus and sodium for kidney health. The managed 15.3% protein content is safe for kidneys. But high levels of amino acids from eggs support the muscle protein necessary for healthy mobility. 

Added glucosamine and chondroitin provide the building blocks for healthy joint cartilage. Therapeutic levels of these chondroprotective ingredients are critical for easing joint discomfort and improving mobility. [9]

Supplemental vitamin E and other antioxidants also protect joint tissue from oxidative damage.

The second ingredient is flaxseed, contributing to a high 23.6% crude fat content with high levels of DHA and EPA to provide further anti-inflammatory support.

Reviews include success stories improving joint comfort in dogs on a safe kidney diet. But dog owners frequently mention that a strong odor can discourage picky pups from eating this dry dog food.

Best Low Phosphorus Dog Food for Urinary Health

Hill’s Prescription Diet c/d Urinary Care Dog Food

  • First 5 Ingredients: Whole Grain Corn, Chicken Meal, Pork Fat, Corn Gluten Meal, Soybean Mill Run
  • Phosphorus Content: 0.41% Min
  • Guaranteed Analysis: 18% Crude Protein, 13% Crude Fat, 5% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
  • Caloric Content: 375 kcal/cup
  • Type of Product: Pea-Free, Veterinary Diet
  • Life Stage: Adult
  • Best For Low-Phosphorus Dog Food for Urinary Health

Dogs with kidney disease can also suffer from urinary health concerns. High phosphorus content can overload weak kidneys, but excess minerals can also cause the collection of crystals in the urinary tract.

This low phosphorus urinary care formula also features controlled levels of magnesium and calcium. These minerals can contribute to the formation of urinary struvite and calcium oxalate stones. [10]

Carefully balanced protein, fat, and sodium levels also help promote normal renal function.

Chicken meal contributes to the 18% protein content, and a 13% crude fat content features sources of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.

Unlike other urinary formulas, this diet does not increase urination. Pet owners who have to leave their pets at home for extended periods appreciate the reduced accidents that their pets with urinary problems experience when eating this food.

Low Phosphorus Food for Dogs Homemade

Just Food for Dogs Renal Support Low Protein

Main benefits

  • Restricted High-Quality
  • Highly Digestible Protein
  • Restricted Phosphorus
  • Controlled Levels of Electrolytes
  • 46 Calories Per Ounce
  • Low Protein Diet for Dogs
  • Low phosphorus dog food non prescription

Your dog will love eating this low protein and low phosphorus dog food!

Infact, the taste (palatability) and healthy ingredient list of Renal Support Low Protein are the key reasons that veterinarians recommend it.

This isn’t your ordinary renal dog food. This specially designed diet is formulated to support your dog’s kidney health with carefully controlled levels of protein, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, omega-3 fatty acids, and an increased amount of B vitamins, plus it’s a non prescription low phosphorus dog food!

 

Guaranteed Analysis

  • Crude Protein (min.)4.0%
  • Crude Protein (max.)6.0%
  • Crude Fat (min.)6.0%
  • Crude Fiber (max.)2.0%
  • Moisture (max)70%
  • Phosphorus (min.)0.06%
  • Phosphorus (max.)0.09%
  • Eicosapentaenoic (EPA) & Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) (min.)0.02%
 

No 1 Veterinary recommended!

Ask your veterinarian how the nutrition in Renal Support Low Protein can ensure your dog has the proper balance to help them maintain optimal kidney or liver health.

Calorie Content Per KG

Calorie Content (Calculated):
1608 kcal ME/kg; 46 kcal ME/oz
828 kcal ME/18 oz; 3312 kcal ME/72 oz

Low Phosphorus Dog Food Buying Guide

Phosphorus is a necessary mineral in dogs’ diets. However, excess phosphorus levels can be harmful to dogs with kidney disease.

So understanding how to select safe, low phosphorus dog food for your special needs pup is critical.

Phosphorus in Dog Food

Phosphorus is a macromineral that plays an essential role in bone growth and development. To maintain a healthy skeletal system, all dogs require adequate phosphorus from their diet.

Puppies require much higher levels of phosphorus in their diet than grown dogs.

Adult dogs require less phosphorus than puppies, but deficiencies can still lead to serious illness. Despite this, there are times when excessive phosphorus is harmful

When is a Low Phosphorus Diet Useful?

The high phosphorus levels in commercial food can be harmful to pets with damaged kidneys.

It’s critical to feed a low-phosphorus diet to keep the pet’s blood phosphorus level down, which is thought to slow the progression of kidney disease and help survival.

So feeding low phosphorus dog foods is essential for the management of chronic kidney disease. [11]

The high phosphorus levels in commercial food can be harmful to pets with damaged kidneys.

How To Calculate Phosphorus in Dog Food

The average phosphorus content of dry dog foods is around 2%. This satisfies the nutritional needs of an ordinary healthy dog, but it may be harmful to pups with decreased kidney function.

The majority of kidney care dog foods contain less than 1% phosphorus. For most dogs with kidney issues, 0.6% phosphorus is ideal.

High-Quality Protein Source

High protein content might also be harmful to your dog’s kidneys.

Your dog, on the other hand, requires adequate amounts of amino acids to maintain his muscular health.

Real meat may not be the first ingredient but look for a kidney care formula containing high-quality animal protein like a whole chicken.

Depending on the severity of your dog’s kidney disease, your veterinarian may recommend a lower protein diet, these diets are typically prescription diets that must be obtained through a licensed veterinarian.

Dog sitting infront of a bowl of healthy food
High protein content might also be harmful to your dog’s kidneys.

What Food Is High In Phosphorus for Dogs?

Animal proteins should form the basis of an omnivorous canine diet, but several kinds of meat have a high phosphorus content.

Premium meats like beef and liver are examples of proteins with a high phosphorus content.

Duck, chicken, and turkey are some of the most popular low phosphorus meat alternatives used in dog foods.

Meat by-products should be avoided since they may also include high amounts of phosphorus.

selection of high phosphorus food
Premium meats like beef and liver are examples of proteins with a high phosphorus content.

Calcium

Some kidney care dog foods use phosphorus binders to prevent your dog’s body from absorbing the mineral rather than reducing phosphorus directly.

Excess phosphorus is excreted from the body, because it binds to these binders before being absorbed from the diet.

Calcium is the most common phosphorus binding substance. It’s also a necessary mineral for dogs, particularly in the formation of bones.

Calcium intake can limit the amount of phosphorus that reaches your dog’s kidneys.

calcium foods for health

Potassium

Not all minerals are detrimental to kidney health.

Potassium is important for renal function at proper levels, and low intakes might lead to kidney failure.

Many kidney care formulations include potassium supplements in their mix, this mineral aids in the filtration process and may help regrow damaged kidneys over time.

Potassium can help to regrow damaged kidneys!

Nitrogen Traps

Nitrogen traps work in the same way as phosphorus binders.

These traps, on the other hand, assist to alleviate the kidneys’ burden by removing protein waste instead of binding phosphorus.

Protein digestion byproducts frequently flow via the kidney and are eliminated in urine.

Instead of these chemicals, nitrogen traps capture them directly to the colon.

Prebiotic fibers aid in the formation of these nitrogen traps, so look for a kidney care product that contains a lot of fiber.

Dog Treats For Sensitive Stomachs - Dog Food Specialist

Best Probiotic for Dogs

Did you know that a dog’s gut health has a significant influence on its overall health?

A recent scientific study reports that 70% to 80% of all illness begins in the gastrointestinal tract! discover why this supplement is essential for your dog’s immune system and overall health.

Read our blog on: The Best Probiotics for Dogs

Up to 80% of all Illnesses start in your dog's stomach!

What Food is Best For Dog's with Kidney Disease?

For treating kidney diseases in dogs, a low phosphorus diet may be an important nutritional aid.

A dog’s kidney failure can have a big impact on his or her quality of life. Excess phosphorus may also overburden weak kidneys, resulting in serious problems.

I think Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet Kidney Support is the finest dog food for low phosphorus diets overall.

If you give your dog a prescription diet or other kidney care formulas, they usually come with specific recipes designed especially for your four-legged companion’s unique requirements, so talk to your veterinarian about selecting the finest diet to help your dog have his best possible life.

Also, check out our guide if you have a new puppy for the healthiest puppy training treats!

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