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IRIS Staging

Dog Kidney Failure: Early Signs, Stages, Treatment, and Life Expectancy

Kidney failure is one of the most common serious health conditions affecting dogs, particularly as they age. It’s devastating to watch a beloved companion struggle with this progressive disease. The good news is that early detection and proper management can significantly slow progression, maintain quality of life, and add months or even years to your dog’s life. The challenge with kidney failure is its deceptive nature. By the time most owners notice obvious symptoms, their dog has already lost 65-75% of kidney function. The kidneys are remarkably resilient organs that continue working even when significantly damaged, masking the problem until it reaches advanced stages.