Best Foods for a Dachshund with Kidney Disease - iHeartDogs.com

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Best Foods for a Dachshund with Kidney Disease

By: Zyra Capalac
Zyra is a Special Project Coordinator of HomeLife Media and a writer for iHeartDogs.com. She has 3 dogs namely Skye, Luna, and one of them is a rescue, named Tesla.Read more
| March 6, 2026
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Does your Dachshund have chronic kidney disease? You’re not alone. Members of our I Love My Dachshund Facebook community recently shared their insights on the following question: What food would you recommend for a Dachshund with kidney disease? We received hundreds of helpful replies, and below we have compiled some of the best responses.

Best Dog Foods for a Dachshund with Chronic Kidney Disease

Science Diet CD I think that was the name. One she liked the other she didn’t

Author: Dottsie Anderson B.

Likes: 1


We gave our Abby only distilled water. It really helped. She also ate canned Science Diet for kidney problems.

Author: Renee F.

Likes: 6


I have had three dogs with kidney disease; all have been fed Hills Science diet KD. Only the kibble. I softened it with water (as two dogs were toothless) and let it sit for awhile. The most recent dog gets additional special food I cook. Green beans, green peas..both frozen..baked sweet potato, shredded carrots cooked with a skinless chicken thigh. I switched them as soon as I got them from the rescue….no gradual change. By their reactions, (and from the initial look of them when they came to their forever home with me,) it agreed with them on all levels. Two passed from very old age and the third is hanging in at about 14 yoa.

Author: Jeanne C.

Likes: 5


Our last Doxie Ginger Belle had kidney disease and was on Royal Canin SO, she did well for several years. She was 4 months shy of 16th birthday when we lost her.

Author: Sue Hall T.

Likes: 4


My mixed doxie was on prescription Purina NF Kidney food through our vet. He was on this food for about 3.5 yrs before we lost him. If you decided to go holistic contact someone in that field to help.

Author: Tina M.

Likes: 2


My Chloe was diagnosed end of August and is on Hills Kidney prescription dry food. It took her awhile to get on board with it though. When she was feeling ill we had to hand feed her pretty much anything she would take. (Usually rotisserie chicken, green beans and baby food, sometimes tuna fish- even that she would turn her nose up to, we had to do a lot of coaxing). Eventually as she stabilized we were able to get her back on dry dog food and the Rx formula. She’s been doing really well since Thanksgiving. Although this past week she’s starting to be hesitant with her meals. Hoping it’s not another flare up. We have to do sub q fluids daily. I’m sorry you’re going through this, it’s not an easy road. We had different opinions from every dr and after three hospitalizations, they all thought she’d be gone by now. Good luck to you and your pup.

Author: Nikki P.

Likes: 0


Prescription Diet Hepatic food. It worked great. Have your vet write you a script

Author: Lisa S.

Likes: 0


We feed ours tiny bites from pedigree

Author: Tara D.

Likes: 3


Is it Science Diet KD? My male loved it and he passed away last August from Kidney failure and thyroid issues and back issues. My female is now in early stages of kidney disease and she ate KD for a month and now she won’t touch it. I am feeding her Beyond with just chicken, rice and peas & salmon and veggies, even with these more palatable food I fight with her to eat.

Author: Jane B.

Likes: 2


I feed my doxie hills chicken stew with veggies k/d diet. She doesn’t always eat it , so, I top it with sardines or chicken (rotisserie, with no skin) also she gets green peppers, strawberries, apples, egg white, cucumbers and carrots. They gave her 6 to 8 months last May and she is still with us, she will he 16 in June. Do your research on what they can and cannot have!

Author: Lisa M.

Likes: 3


I use Dr Harvey’s mixed with dog food I make myself. I also use vitamins for omega and kidney support. My baby will be 17 next month.

Author: Patti S.

Likes: 0


We use Just Food For Dogs. They have a plan for dogs with kidney issues. It’s not cheap, but it’s made from REAL food that your vet can write a prescription for.

Author: Kristine Harden R.

Likes: 0


Mine was on Royal Canin urinary formula. I added a little rice with veggies on top to get her to eat it.

Author: Rita W.

Likes: 3


Mine eats Royal Canin for Doxie’s.

Author: Lynn Lipsitz R.

Likes: 2


One thing I have learned the hard way is to only give them filter water or bottled water and feed them pure chicken or Turkey or salmon tuna mixed with royal canin hard food or blue buffalo hard food. I have a doxie and that’s all he eats, with treat that are buffalo blue jerky strips. He’s always gets a good report from our veteran, he’s very healthy and he’s 9 years old. Most of all pray over your furry baby and his or her food.

Author: Candy Baker G.

Likes: 0


Fresh Pet. From the grocery store.. That is fresh meat already cooked for you. We also cook our own chicken.

Author: Angelika H.

Likes: 2


Our girl is on Purina Pro Plan NF (for kidney’s) We do the dry with a bit of their canned NF. She loves it.

Author: Chris J.

Likes: 0


We feed our female Dachshund little Cesar’s soft dog food she loves it it’s the only food she will eat our vet says it’s the best healthy dog food to give her every day

Author: John F.

Likes: 1


Dr. Harvey’s Canine Health is a pre-mix you add hot water, protein & oil to. They have a recipe for kidney disease. You can also call & talk to Lori, their customer service rep, that specializes in kidney health.

Author: Tara H.

Likes: 1


Helping Your Dachshund Stay Healthy With the Right Food

In conclusion, managing chronic kidney disease in dachshunds is crucial for their long-term health and well-being. Selecting the best dog food tailored to your pet’s specific needs can significantly improve their quality of life. Opt for diets low in phosphorus and high-quality proteins, with added omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and essential vitamins. Consult with a veterinarian for personalized recommendations for your dachshund, and always transition your pet’s diet gradually. By providing the appropriate nutritional support, you can help manage your dog’s kidney disease and ensure they continue to lead a happy, healthy life.

RELATED: The Complete Dog Food Guide: Nutrition, Ingredients, Feeding & How to Choose

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