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Grass-Fed Beef Kidney for Dogs

Written by: Dr. Athena Gaffud

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Time to read 12 min

Are you concerned about dog’s kidney health? Learn about common kidney diseases in dogs, such as Canine Acute Renal Failure and Chronic Kidney Disease.


Discover the benefits of incorporating beef kidney into your dog's diet, including its high nutrient density, essential vitamins and minerals, and promotion of healthy digestion.


Find out how much beef kidney dog should eat and why it is an important addition to a whole-prey diet.

What Are Common Kidney Diseases in Dogs?

lethargy in dog

Common kidney diseases in dogs refer to health conditions affecting the renal system, which are crucial for a dog's overall well-being. These diseases can manifest in various forms, such as chronic kidney disease and kidney stones. 

Symptoms may include increased thirst and urination, weight loss, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Causes can range from genetic predisposition to aging, infections, and poor diet. Providing a well-balanced diet, including canine superfoods, and incorporating elements of an ancestral diet can help support kidney health. Conventional treatment options often involve medication, dietary management, and in severe cases, surgery. Read about “Renal Health and CBD: Can CBD Oil Assist Dogs Facing Kidney Disease?

Canine Acute Renal Failure

Acute renal failure in dogs is a severe condition that requires immediate veterinary attention. It can be caused by various factors such as ingestion of toxins, infections, or underlying health issues. “New and unusual causes of acute renal failure in dogs and cats include infectious diseases, nephrotoxicants, and plant material, such as lilies and raisins/grapes,” according to the study by Stokes, J., & Forrester, S. (2004).

When a dog is experiencing acute renal failure , you may notice symptoms like increased thirst, decreased appetite, vomiting, lethargy, and changes in urination habits. Early detection is crucial to prevent further complications. Treatment for this condition typically involves intravenous fluids to support kidney function, dietary changes to promote renal health, and medications to address underlying causes if applicable.

Some dog owners opt for a holistic approach to managing renal health by incorporating canine superfoods and ancestral diets, believing in the concept that 'like heals like.' These diets focus on providing high-quality, natural ingredients that support overall health and help alleviate renal issues.

Canine Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) in dogs is a progressive condition that impacts the kidneys' ability to function properly over time. It is essential to manage CKD through proper nutrition and veterinary care.

One of the key considerations when managing CKD in dogs is their diet. They benefit greatly from a nutrient-dense canine superfood that supports kidney health. An ancestral diet, mimicking what their predecessors would have eaten, can provide natural nutrients that promote overall well-being. Holistic approaches, such as incorporating ‘like heals like’ principles, can also complement traditional treatments by focusing on the body's natural healing mechanisms. 

By combining these approaches, pet owners can help alleviate symptoms and improve their dog's quality of life. “Chronic kidney disease is prevalent in dogs, with increased risk in certain breeds and increased age, and improved diagnosis and management can improve animal survival and welfare,” according to the study by O'Neill, D., Elliott, J., Church, D., McGreevy, P., Thomson, P., & Brodbelt, D. (2013).

Renal Stones in Dogs

Renal stones, also known as kidney stones, can develop in dogs and impact their urinary tract health. Understanding the risk factors and treatment options for renal stones is essential for pet owners.

According to the study by Siener, R. (2021), “Inadequate fluid intake is the major dietary risk factor for kidney stone disease, and addressing nutritional risk factors can help prevent recurrence and reduce the need for invasive surgical procedures.

”Proper veterinary guidance is crucial in managing renal stones in dogs, as the formation of these stones can be quite complex.

Symptoms of renal stones in canines may include frequent urination, blood in the urine, and discomfort while urinating. 

Diet plays a significant role in preventing and managing renal stones , with recommendations often focusing on a balanced diet that may include a canine superfood or an ancestral diet. 

Holistic approaches ‘like heals like’ is also considered, emphasizing natural remedies and methods to support overall well-being.

Urinary Tract Infection in Dogs

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can affect dogs and lead to discomfort and health issues. Proper diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent UTIs from causing further complications.

UTIs in dogs are typically caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract through the urethra. Symptoms may include frequent urination, straining to urinate, blood in the urine, and accidents in the house. If left untreated, UTIs can progress to more severe kidney infections.

Canine superfoods like blueberries and cranberries can help prevent UTIs due to their natural antibacterial properties that support urinary health. Read about “Can Dogs Eat Blueberries?”.

Providing dogs with an ancestral diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods can also boost their immune system and prevent infection. Remember, ‘like heals like,’ so feeding dogs a balanced and nutritious diet is key to overall health and well-being.

What Is a Whole Prey Diet for Dogs?

whole prey diet for dog

A whole prey diet for dogs mimics their ancestral eating habits, consisting of raw meat, organs, bones, and other healing superfoods. This diet is believed to provide essential nutrients and promote overall health for dogs.


Feeding dogs a whole prey diet can offer several advantages. It aligns with their biological needs, offering nutrients in a form that their bodies are naturally designed to digest and derive benefits from. This can lead to improved digestion, healthier skin and coat, and better weight management.

What Is Beef Kidney?

Beef kidney

Beef kidney is a nutrient-dense organ meat that provides essential vitamins and minerals for dogs. It is loaded with important nutrients like Vitamin A, B vitamins, iron, and essential fatty acids that are vital for a dog's overall health and well-being. 

Grass-fed beef kidneys are particularly prized for their high-quality protein and nutrient content, making them an excellent choice for pet owners conscious of their dog's diet. Including beef kidney in your canine companion's meals can help ensure they receive a well-rounded diet that supports their energy levels, immune system, and overall vitality.

Why Is Beef Kidney Important for Dogs?

sliced beef kidney

Beef kidney is essential for dogs due to its high nutrient density, providing a natural source of vital vitamins and minerals that support overall health and well-being in canines.


One of the main reasons beef kidney is highly valued in a dog's diet is its rich content of protein , which is crucial for muscle development and repair. Beef kidney is a fantastic source of B-vitamins like B12, riboflavin, and niacin, essential for energy production and maintaining a healthy metabolism in dogs. The grass-fed aspect of beef kidney further enhances its nutritional profile, ensuring that the organ meat is free from harmful additives or toxins that could harm a dog’s health.

High Nutrient Density

Beef kidney stands out for its high nutrient density, packing essential vitamins and minerals that contribute to a dog's overall health and vitality.


Grass-fed beef kidney offers an impressive array of nutrients beneficial for dogs. This organ meat is a powerhouse of vitamins A, B12, D, and E , essential for maintaining healthy vision, a strong immune system, proper nerve function, and healthy skin and coat. Beef kidney is a rich source of iron, zinc, selenium , and phosphorus , promoting strong bones, healthy blood cells, and overall optimal physiological function.

Source of Essential Vitamins and Minerals

Beef kidney serves as a rich source of essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A , iron, and selenium, which are vital for a dog's immune system, energy levels, and overall health.


Including these nutrients in a dog's diet is crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth. Vitamin A plays a key role in vision and skin health, while iron is essential for oxygen transportation in the body. Selenium acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting cells from damage and promoting a healthy heart.

Promotes Healthy Digestion

Including beef kidney in a dog's diet can promote healthy digestion due to its natural enzymes, proteins, and nutrients that support gastrointestinal function and nutrient absorption.

Beef kidneys, especially those from grass-fed sources, are rich in enzymes that aid in breaking down food and facilitating the digestion process. These enzymes work synergistically with the dog's digestive enzymes to improve the breakdown and absorption of nutrients from the food consumed. “D-aspartate oxidase from beef kidney cortex shows flavin fluorescence and resembles dehydrogenase/oxidase class flavoproteins, particularly amino acid oxidases,” according to the study by Negri, A., Massey, V., & Williams, C. (1987).

Plus enzymes, beef kidney is a great source of high-quality proteins that are essential for maintaining gut health. The proteins present in organ meats like the kidney help in repairing and building the tissues of the digestive system, promoting overall digestive wellness.

The nutrients found in beef kidneys, such as vitamins and minerals, play a crucial role in supporting the digestive processes. These nutrients help regulate bowel movements, reducing inflammation in the gut, and enhancing the microbial balance in the digestive tract.

How Much Beef Kidney Should Dogs Eat?

dog waiting for food

Determining the appropriate amount of beef kidney for dogs depends on factors such as the dog's age, size, and overall dietary needs. It is important to consult with a veterinarian to establish the right serving size.


Grass-fed beef kidney is a nutrient-rich option for dogs, providing essential vitamins and minerals. When portioning this organ meat, it's crucial to consider the percentage of the overall diet it should comprise. As a general guideline, beef kidney can typically make up around 5-10% of a dog's total food intake. This ensures they receive the necessary nutrients without overloading on one particular type of food.

Consider Your Dog's Age and Size

When determining the amount of beef kidney to feed your dog, consider factors such as their age, size, activity level, and any specific health conditions that may impact their dietary requirements.


For example, grass-fed beef kidneys are rich in essential vitamins and organ meats, making them a valuable addition to your dog's diet. Dogs of different ages and sizes have varying metabolic rates and nutritional needs, so it's crucial to tailor the serving sizes accordingly. Young, active dogs may require more protein from kidney meats to support their growth and energy levels, while older dogs or those with health issues may need smaller portions to prevent overloading their systems.

Balance with Other Foods

To ensure a balanced diet, it is essential to incorporate beef kidney in moderation alongside other food components such as muscle meat, bones, and vegetables to meet a dog's nutritional requirements.

Beef kidney is a valuable source of vitamins and minerals essential for dog's overall well-being. Pairing this nutrient-rich organ meat with a variety of other food items like lean grass-fed muscle meat ensures a complete and well-rounded meal plan. Including bones in the diet helps in providing essential calcium for bone health. Incorporating vegetables adds fiber and a range of micronutrients.

What is Bone Broth Protein?

bone broth protein powder
bone broth protein

Bone broth protein is a nutrient-rich supplement derived from simmering bones and connective tissues to extract beneficial compounds like collagen, amino acids, and minerals. It is known for its gut-healing properties and overall health benefits.


During the production process, bones are typically simmered for an extended period of time, allowing the release of nutrients into the liquid, which is then concentrated into a powdered form. The resulting bone broth protein powder is a concentrated source of collagen, which supports joint health and healthy skin. Bone broth protein is also rich in amino acids such as proline and glycine, essential for muscle repair and growth.


In canine nutrition, bone broth protein can be added to a dog's diet to support joint health, digestion, and overall well-being. It can be easily mixed into their regular food or served as a standalone supplement. Many pet owners appreciate the natural and nourishing properties of bone broth protein as a safe and effective way to enhance their dog's diets.

Primal-Vitality™ Beef Organ Complex

Primal-Vitality Beef Organ Complex is a premium blend of nutrient-dense organ meats sourced from grass-fed beef, providing essential vitamins, minerals, and proteins for optimal pet health. This complex is designed to support overall vitality and well-being in dogs.


By incorporating a variety of organ meats such as liver, heart, pancreas, spleen, and kidney, this formula offers a holistic approach to canine nutrition. These organs are rich in nutrients like iron, B vitamins, and amino acids, which are crucial for maintaining a healthy immune system and promoting muscle development.


The Beef Organ Complex is carefully crafted to ensure a natural and balanced diet for your furry friend, mimicking what canines would consume in the wild. This means that your dog gets the benefits of a whole-prey diet without the hassle of sourcing and preparing organ meats yourself.

Conclusion: Is Beef Kidney a Good Addition to a Whole Prey Diet for Dogs?

dogs eating

Beef kidney can be a beneficial addition to a whole prey diet for dogs due to its nutrient density and essential contributions to canine nutrition. When included in appropriate portions, beef kidney can enhance the overall health and well-being of dogs following a natural, ancestral diet.

One of the key advantages of incorporating grass-fed beef kidney into a dog's diet is its rich concentration of essential nutrients such as vitamin A, B vitamins, iron, and zinc. These nutrients play a crucial role in supporting various bodily functions, including immune system health, energy metabolism, and tissue repair. The inclusion of organ meats like beef kidney can help promote optimal digestion and nutrient absorption in dogs, leading to improved overall health and vitality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is beef kidney and why is it important for a dog's diet?

Beef kidney is a nutrient-dense organ meat that is rich in essential vitamins and minerals. It is an important component of a whole prey diet for dogs as it provides them with essential nutrients for optimal health.

How does beef kidney benefit a dog's overall health?

Beef kidney is an excellent source of protein, iron, and B vitamins which are essential for a dog's energy, muscle growth, and healthy blood cells. It also contains high levels of selenium and vitamin A, which support a dog's immune system and promote healthy skin and coat.

Can beef kidney be fed to dogs with sensitive stomachs?

Yes, beef kidney is a great protein source for dogs with sensitive stomachs as it is easily digestible and can help alleviate digestive issues. However, it is always best to consult with a veterinarian before making any changes to your dog's diet.

How much beef kidney should be included in a dog's diet?

The amount of beef kidney to include in a dog's diet depends on their size, age, and overall health. Generally, it is recommended to feed around 10% of a dog's daily diet with organ meats, including beef kidney. It is important to balance the rest of their diet with other proteins, vegetables, and grains.

Is beef kidney safe for puppies?

Yes, beef kidney is safe for puppies and is an important part of their diet for proper growth and development. However, it is important to feed them small amounts at first and gradually increase the amount as they grow and their digestive system becomes stronger.

Can beef kidney be fed to senior dogs?

Yes, beef kidney is beneficial for senior dogs as it provides them with essential nutrients for their aging bodies. However, it is important to consult with a veterinarian first, as some senior dogs may have specific dietary needs or health conditions that may require a different type of diet.

Dr. Athena Gaffud, DVM

Author: Dr. Athena Gaffud

Dr. Athena is a seasoned, board-certified veterinarian with comprehensive expertise in general practice, veterinary medicine, laboratory operations, and veterinary writing. She is passionate about animals and holistic health. 

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