Symptoms in Dogs with Chronic Renal Failure
 
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The following are some of the symptoms that may be seen in dogs with Chronic Renal Failure (CRF). (Note that dogs with acute renal failure (ARF), which is sometimes reversible with early medical intervention and support, may have a complete cessation of urination rather than an increased frequency)

Obviously, not all dogs with Chronic Renal Failure will exhibit all of these symptoms. They are listed in the order in which they generally appear. 
bullet Increased water consumption (polydipsia)
bullet Frequent urination (polyuria)
bullet Dilute urine (little color or odor, because the kidneys are no longer capable of concentrating urine)
bullet Depression
bullet Diminished appetite (anorexia)
bullet Discoloration of teeth
bullet Chemical odor to the breath
bullet Nausea and vomiting (seen particularly with a very high BUN (blood urea nitrogen)) Dogs who are nauseated often lick their noses repeatedly
bullet Muscle weakness and exercise intolerance
bullet Weight loss
bullet Pale mucous membranes because of anemia
bullet Oral (mouth) ulcers
bullet Shivering (from diminished number of red blood cells that result from the anemia seen in renal failure)
bullet Muscle wasting
bullet Diarrhea

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Last edit: March 10, 2005