10 Best Dog Foods for Kidney Disease 2025: Vet-Approved

This content was reviewed and fact-checked by veterinarian Dr. Sandra Tashkovska, DVM.

What if the food you’re feeding your dog—lovingly, every day—is quietly making their kidneys work overtime? For dogs with kidney disease, nutrition isn’t just important—it’s life-changing. The right food can slow disease progression, reduce painful symptoms like nausea and fatigue, and help your pup enjoy more tail wags and fewer vet visits. But here’s the twist: many so-called “healthy” dog foods are packed with hidden phosphorus, excess protein, or ingredients that strain already struggling kidneys. So, how do you know which formulas actually help, and which ones just claim to? In this guide, we reveal the best dog foods for kidney disease so you can feel confident you’re giving your dog the support they need—one bowl at a time.

The Best Dog Food for Kidney Disease According to Science

Managing kidney disease in dogs relies heavily on specialized nutrition. Therapeutic renal diets—commercially formulated foods designed for kidney support—are consistently shown to slow disease progression, improve quality of life, and increase survival in dogs with chronic kidney disease (CKD). 

According to the latest research, dog food to support kidney disease should include the following features:

Feature/Intervention	Benefits for CKD Dogs
Reduced protein and phosphorus	Slows kidney damage, reduces uremic crises, improves survival
Controlled sodium	Helps manage blood pressure and fluid balance
Added omega-3 fatty acids	May reduce inflammation and support kidney health
Enhanced B vitamins and antioxidants	Supports overall health and reduces oxidative stress
Prebiotics and probiotics	May improve gut health, reduce toxins, and support immune function
Commercial renal diets (vs. homemade)	Commercial diets are nutritionally balanced; homemade diets often lack key nutrients

Table sources: ^{[1],[2],[3],[4],[5],[6],[7],[8],[9],[10],[11],[12]}

Supplements containing prebiotics, probiotics, antioxidants, and phosphate binders can provide additional benefits, especially in advanced CKD, but should be used under veterinary guidance

Always consult your veterinarian before changing your dog’s diet. You can get personalized nutritional advice tailored to your dog’s kidney-supportive diet from the comfort of your home from an online registered vet nutritionist through Vetster anytime, anywhere. You can also chat with an online vet to ask questions about phosphorus levels, hydration, protein intake, and other renal-friendly dietary needs. Similarly, an at-home dog gut health test can analyze your dog’s microbiome, offering insights into how well they absorb nutrients—critical for dogs with compromised kidneys. An at-home dog allergy test may also help identify ingredients that could trigger inflammation or worsen kidney function, enabling you to make well-informed dietary decisions that support your dog’s kidney health and overall well-being.

Best Dog Food For Kidney Disease

Here are the best dog foods for dogs with kidney disease this year.

Best Overall Dog Food For Kidney Disease

Flavor: Beef & turkey

Protein: 8% (as fed)

Fat: 8% (as fed)

Fiber: 6% (as fed)

Diet: Fresh | human-grade

Why we recommended it: Raised Right Kidney Recipes use whole food ingredients you’d recognize from your own kitchen—like turkey thigh, carrots, and blueberries—without synthetic additives, preservatives, or ultra-processing. This makes it a great choice for dogs with sensitive systems or compromised renal health, as it’s easy to digest and less taxing on the kidneys. The brand’s veterinary-formulated kidney support recipes are designed to reduce protein and phosphorus intake while still providing essential nutrients, helping to slow the progression of kidney disease. The recipe is gently cooked and contains no high-carb fillers, legumes, grains, or synthetic additives, addressing concerns often associated with many commercial or prescription brands.

What sets it apart from competitors: Its extremely low phosphorus and moderate protein levels are tailored for kidney health, but without sacrificing ingredient quality or relying on synthetic phosphorus binders. Regular lab testing for every batch provides added peace of mind for dog owners

Best Dry Dog Food For Kidney Disease

Flavor: Anchovy

Protein: 18%

Fat: 16.5%

Fiber: 2.5%

Diet: Dry | Premium

Why we recommended it: Forza10 Kidney Care offers a well-researched formula developed by veterinarians, focusing on reducing phosphorus and protein to minimize kidney strain. The food also includes added antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids from fish meal and anchovy oil, which help combat inflammation and support cardiovascular health—two crucial considerations for dogs with kidney disease. It’s also certified GMO-free and made in Iceland, where strict quality controls ensure ingredient safety and traceability. Many owners appreciate the product’s impact on maintaining stable creatinine levels and appetite in their dogs, though a few note that picky eaters may not take to the flavor right away.

What sets it apart from competitors: Its use of therapeutic plant extracts like dandelion and cranberry, which may support urinary tract health and detoxification. The brand’s “Active Line” philosophy integrates nutraceuticals and herbal ingredients into its kibble without relying on synthetic chemicals or artificial preservatives.

Best Wet Dog Food For Kidney Disease

Flavor: Pork

Protein: 17%

Fat: 4%

Fiber: 1%

Diet: Wet, human-grade

Why we recommended it: Chidog Water Diet offers a vet-approved, nutritionally balanced, and highly hydrating solution for managing chronic kidney disease. Its recipe uses lean pork as the primary protein, which is easier for compromised kidneys to process compared to organ meats or fish, and includes gentle carbohydrates like pearled barley alongside green peas, watercress, and sweet potato to support overall health and digestion. The food’s high moisture content plays a critical role in protecting kidney function—proper hydration is essential for flushing toxins, and Chidog addresses this by crafting a stew-like formula that many dogs find enjoyable, particularly those reluctant to drink water directly.

What sets it apart from competitors: A holistic approach, blending principles of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) with modern nutritional science. The recipes are made from human-grade, non-GMO ingredients and gently cooked to retain nutrients and digestibility. Chidog’s fresh formula is naturally low in sodium and phosphorus, contains no artificial additives, and avoids ingredients that commonly cause sensitivity, like poultry and fish.

Best Prescription Dog Food For Kidney Disease

Flavor: Chicken & lamb

Protein: 12%

Fat: 18%

Fiber: 5%

Diet: Dry

Why we recommended it: Hill’s Prescription Diet k/d has a clinically proven track record of not only protecting vital kidney function but also supporting longevity and quality of life in dogs with kidney insufficiency. Its nutrient profile—lowered phosphorus and sodium, moderate protein from high-quality sources, L-carnitine for energy, and omega-3 fatty acids for anti-inflammatory support—directly addresses the unique metabolic challenges of kidney disease. Enhanced Appetite Trigger (E.A.T.) technology is included in some recipes to boost nutrient intake, which is a central concern for dogs with poor appetite.

What sets it apart from competitors: The food contains the proprietary S+OXSHIELD blend to reduce the risk of urinary stone formation—a concern for many kidney patients. It also features a prebiotic blend (ActivBiome+ Kidney Defense) to nourish the gut microbiome and further limit toxic waste buildup, a relatively unique feature in the category. Its use of carefully selected protein sources (including egg and chicken), as well as an array of vitamins, antioxidants, and amino acids, supports both renal and overall immune health. 

Best Dehydrated Dog Food For Kidney Disease

Flavor: Grains & vegetables

Protein: 9%

Fat: 3%

Fiber: 5%

Diet: Dehydrated

Why we recommended it: Dr. Harvey’s Canine Health Miracle Dog Food offers a flexible, moisture-rich solution for managing kidney function, hydration, and overall vitality. The base mix is made with whole grains, vegetables, herbs, and vitamins—free from artificial additives, GMOs, and preservatives—which collectively provide foundational nutrition to support renal health. It’s low in phosphorus and protein content in the base (without meat), letting you adjust meat type and portion as your veterinarian recommends. For dogs prone to dehydration—a common hazard of kidney disease—the rehydration step ensures each meal is moisture-rich, reducing kidney strain and supporting optimal toxin elimination.

What sets it apart from competitors: The recipe’s reliance on real, minimally processed food also improves nutrient bioavailability compared to standard kibble, and the fresh preparation is widely credited by owners for renewed appetite—even in dogs who had rejected other renal foods.

Best Budget-Friendly Dog Food For Kidney Disease

Flavor: Turkey

Protein: 14%

Fat: 15%

Fiber: 2.5%

Diet: Dry

Why we recommended it: VFS Low Phosphorus Formula delivers targeted renal support at a budget-friendly price point while still being formulated by veterinary nutritionists. VFS Low Phosphorus Formula is notable for its very low phosphorus content (max 0.12%), low protein, and reduced sodium, each crucial for slowing the progression of kidney disease and minimizing strain on compromised kidneys. It is fortified with antioxidants like vitamins C and E, enhanced omega-3 fatty acids (DHA & EPA), and B-vitamins that collectively support kidney health and reduce oxidative stress.

What sets it apart from competitors: Unlike most renal diets that are stocked only in vet clinics, this option can be purchased at pet specialty retailers, making it more accessible for owners. The food’s inclusion of premium US-sourced meats and eggs, absence of artificial ingredients, and strong palatability also distinguish it within the renal support market.

Best Wet Prescription Dog Food For Kidney Disease

Flavor: Lamb & Sushi Rice

Protein: 4%

Fat: 6%

Fiber: 5%

Diet: Wet | human-grade

Why we recommended it: JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh Renal Support Low Protein balances restricted but high-quality protein (mainly lamb), restricted phosphorus and sodium, and enriched omega-3 fatty acids, all critical for managing kidney disease. The incorporation of ingredients like cauliflower, blueberries, spinach, and carrots enhances antioxidant support and provides vitamins beneficial to kidney and liver health. Its low phosphorus content (around 0.1%) and controlled electrolyte levels help reduce kidney workload and progression of damage. Importantly, the product is gently cooked and human-grade, ensuring nutrient retention and palatability, which is vital for dogs that often lose appetite due to kidney troubles.

What sets it apart from competitors: The innovative Tetra Pak packaging offers a two-year shelf life unopened, a rare advantage among renal supports that usually require refrigeration—this makes it exceptionally practical for storage and transport.

Best Canned Dog Food For Kidney Disease

Flavor: Beef, chicken, fish

Protein: 3.8%

Fat: 5.5%

Fiber: 2$

Diet: Wet

Why we recommended it: Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets NF Kidney Function Canine Formula combines clinical specificity with widely accessible, palatable nutrition. Formulated through collaboration between Purina nutritionists, researchers, and veterinarians, the NF Kidney Function formula focuses on reducing the burden on the kidneys by providing restricted, high-quality protein, limited phosphorus, and lower sodium—critical dietary factors for prolonging quality of life and supporting kidney filtration. It’s also fortified with antioxidants to help control cell damage associated with both kidney and systemic inflammation.

What sets it apart from competitors: It is one of the most extensively available veterinary renal foods, supported by evidence through feeding trials that confirm its completeness for adult maintenance per AAFCO protocols. The formula’s ingredient list is transparent and designed to avoid unnecessary fillers, prioritizing digestibility and real nutritional value.

Best Dog Food For Kidney Disease & Sensitive Stomach

Flavor: Egg & brown rice

Protein: 13%

Fat: 18%

Fiber: 2%

Diet: Dru | Prescription

Why we recommended it: Diamond Care RX Renal Formula Adult Dry Dog Food delivers clinically relevant renal support—specifically limited phosphorus and sodium—while using easy-to-digest protein sources like egg and potato protein for maximum absorption and minimal digestive distress. The inclusion of probiotics (multiple strains) and both soluble and insoluble fibers, such as chicory root and psyllium seed husk, helps soothe the digestive system and maintain optimal gut health. Many owners report that their dogs with both kidney and digestive issues fare well on this diet, noting improvements in stool quality, appetite, and sustained energy.

What sets it apart from competitors: Narrow ingredient profile and a careful balance of carbohydrates to avoid GI upset while providing complete nutrition. The food goes further than most standard renal diets with its antioxidant blend (vitamin E, zinc, selenium), live probiotics, and high palatability, even for dogs with chronic medical issues.

Best Dog Food Supplement For Kidney Disease:

Flavor: Mushroom

Protein: n/a

Fat: n/a

Fiber: n/a

Diet: Supplement

Why we recommended it: Dr. Harvey’s Kidney Health Supplement for Dogs combines traditional Chinese herbs and medicinal mushrooms—like Rehmannia, Cordyceps, Reishi, Shiitake, and Poria—with supportive botanicals (Astragalus, Codonopsis, Milk Thistle, Burdock) and immune-boosting ingredients (bee pollen, brewer’s yeast). These all-natural components work in synergy to reduce inflammation, support urinary function, and strengthen kidney health—all without synthetic additives.

What sets it apart from competitors: The NASC Quality Seal and small-batch manufacturing reflect high product safety and ingredient integrity, providing additional confidence for dog owners seeking premium quality

The Bottom Line

Finding the right food for a dog with kidney disease isn’t just about choosing a low-protein kibble—it’s about giving them a real shot at comfort, stability, and a better quality of life. The right diet can ease symptoms, support organ function, and even slow the progression of the disease. Whether your dog is in early stages or managing more advanced kidney issues, every choice you make—especially what’s in their bowl—matters. By understanding what to look for and steering clear of the common pitfalls, you’re not just feeding your dog—you’re actively supporting their health, happiness, and time by your side.

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Sources

Canine Bible uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process and product review methodology to learn more about how we fact-check, test products, and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

1. Clinical evaluation of dietary modification for treatment of spontaneous chronic renal failure in dogs.
2. Nutritional and laboratory parameters affect the survival of dogs with chronic kidney disease
3. 383 Feeding dogs and cats with renal disease: What do we really know.
4. A longitudinal study on the acceptance and effects of a therapeutic renal food in pet dogs with IRIS‐Stage 1 chronic kidney disease
5. Evaluation of Electrolyte Concentration and Pro-Inflammatory and Oxidative Status in Dogs with Advanced Chronic Kidney Disease under Dietary Treatment
6. Healthy and Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Dogs Have Differences in Serum Metabolomics and Renal Diet May Have Slowed Disease Progression
7. The synergistic effect of prebiotics, probiotics and antioxidants on dogs with chronic kidney disease
8. Management of a growing dog with renal failure fed a homemade diet.
9. Variability in content of homemade diets for canine chronic kidney disease
10. Evaluation of recipes for home-prepared diets for dogs and cats with chronic kidney disease.
11. Chronic Kidney Disease and Dietary Supplementation: Effects on Inflammation and Oxidative Stress
12. Effect of a feed supplement containing probiotics on fecal score and clinical parameters in dogs with chronic kidney disease and intestinal disorders: A pilot study