Although choosing a dog food may seem like a simple task, not all kibble or processed products have the same nutritional quality. Veterinarians and animal nutrition experts point out that most contain high levels of sodium and phosphorus, which increase the likelihood of your pet developing kidney disease.

This does not mean that all commercial foods are harmful or that sodium or phosphorus should be completely eliminated from the diet. Both minerals are essential for the dog's body, but the problem appears when their concentration exceeds the animal's needs.

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Sodium, the common ingredient that damages your dog's kidneys

Excess sodium is one of the factors that most concerns veterinarians when analyzing the composition of some ultra-processed pet foods. And the worst thing is not that it causes damage, but that it usually goes unnoticed.

In certain inexpensive formulas, salt can be used to improve the flavor and make the food more attractive to the dog. However, high consumption for months or years forces the kidneys to work harder to eliminate excess sodium from the body.

Over time, this overload can lead to dehydration, increase blood pressure and complicate the health of dogs that already have some degree of kidney failure or heart disease.

Many specialists recommend checking nutritional labeling and opting for foods formulated by manufacturers that meet quality standards and use adequate levels of minerals.

Be careful with the match

Another ingredient that often goes unnoticed is phosphorus, especially when it comes from inorganic additives used in lower quality foods.

Phosphorus is essential to maintain strong bones and participate in numerous metabolic processes. However, when a dog develops kidney disease, its kidneys have more difficulty eliminating this mineral, which promotes its accumulation in the blood and accelerates the deterioration of kidney function.

Veterinary foods intended for dogs with kidney problems usually contain controlled amounts of phosphorus to reduce the load on these organs.

Before purchasing a food, it is a good idea to check the list of ingredients and nutritional information. Choosing well-known brands, formulated according to international animal nutrition standards, is usually a safer alternative than opting only for the lowest price.

It is also advisable to ensure that the dog has permanent access to fresh water, since good hydration helps the kidneys function properly.