Dogs with chronic kidney disease (CKD) need treats that are low in phosphorus and sodium and not too high in protein. Homemade treats let you control the ingredients, but your vet should approve the plan first, because every dog’s stage of kidney disease and bloodwork is different.
What Makes a Kidney-Friendly Treat?
- Low phosphorus. Damaged kidneys can’t clear phosphorus well. Avoid cheese, bones, jerky, and processed meats.
- Low sodium. Skip salted foods, broths with salt, and deli meat.
- Moderate, high-quality protein. Many CKD dogs need less protein. Egg whites are a low-phosphorus protein.
- Appetite appeal. CKD often reduces appetite, so a tasty treat can help.
Safe Ingredients (Check With Your Vet)
- Apple slices (no seeds), blueberries, and watermelon without seeds or rind
- Carrots, green beans, cucumber, and cooked zucchini
- Plain white rice or rice flour
- Egg whites, cooked
- Unsweetened applesauce (no xylitol or added sugar)
Never Feed
Grapes and raisins (can cause kidney failure), onions, garlic, macadamia nuts, and anything sweetened with xylitol. Avoid salty snacks and most commercial jerky treats.
Easy Egg-White and Rice Biscuits
- Preheat the oven to 325°F.
- Mix 1 cup white rice flour, 2 egg whites, and 3 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce with enough water to form a dough.
- Roll thin, cut into small pieces, and bake 15 to 20 minutes until firm.
- Cool completely and store in the fridge for up to a week or freeze.
Quick No-Bake Options
- A few frozen blueberries on a hot day.
- A small handful of crunchy carrot sticks.
- A slice of apple.
How Many Treats?
Keep treats to about 10 percent of daily calories, and count the carbohydrates and potassium in fruit and veg if your dog’s bloodwork shows high potassium. Give any new treat in a tiny amount first. Stop and call your vet if there is vomiting or diarrhea. Always make sure fresh water is available, because kidney dogs need plenty.
Related Reading
See our treats for dogs with kidney disease and our review of Royal Canin renal dog food.
Bottom Line
Choose low-phosphorus, low-sodium, low-protein ingredients like fruit, vegetables, rice, and egg whites for dogs with kidney disease. Ask your veterinarian to confirm what fits your dog’s stage before you start, and keep treats small.
