Understanding Kidney and Urinary Health in the Brittany

Quick answer

The Brittany is a breed that can be affected by specific hereditary kidney and urinary conditions, including chronic kidney disease, protein losing nephropathy, and glomerulonephritis. While these conditions are serious, early detection through consistent home monitoring and regular veterinary check-ups allows for timely intervention. By watching for changes in thirst, appetite, and energy levels, you can help your veterinarian manage these health challenges effectively.

Chronic Kidney Disease

Chronic kidney disease involves a gradual loss of kidney function over time. In the Brittany, this is often linked to an autosomal recessive immune-mediated glomerulonephritis. This is well recognised in the breed. At home, you might first notice your dog drinking more water than usual, urinating more frequently, or showing a lack of interest in food. You may also notice your dog appears lethargic or seems to have lost weight despite eating normally.

When you bring your dog to the clinic, the veterinarian will likely perform blood work to check kidney values and a urinalysis to assess how well the kidneys are concentrating urine. An ultrasound may also be used to look at the size and structure of the kidneys. Urgency is determined by how quickly your dog’s energy levels drop or if they stop eating entirely. A common mistake is assuming that increased thirst is simply due to the weather or increased activity, which can delay necessary diagnostic testing.

Protein Losing Nephropathy

Protein losing nephropathy occurs when the kidneys are unable to filter protein properly, causing it to leak into the urine. This condition is associated with a hereditary deficiency of the third component of complement and is a recognised tendency in the breed. Owners often notice this condition when their dog begins to retain fluid, leading to a swollen abdomen or swollen limbs. You might also notice your dog becoming easily fatigued during routine walks.

Your veterinarian will diagnose this by measuring the amount of protein in the urine, often using a urine protein-to-creatinine ratio test. Blood tests will also be used to check for low albumin levels, which occur when protein is lost from the body. If you notice your dog’s belly looking distended or if they seem to be breathing harder than normal, seek veterinary attention immediately. The mistake of waiting to see if swelling goes away on its own is dangerous, as this condition requires specific dietary and medical management to prevent further damage.

Glomerulonephritis

Glomerulonephritis is an inflammatory condition affecting the filtering units of the kidneys. In the Brittany, this presents as a familial form of membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis, which is associated with a hereditary deficiency of the third component of complement. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. Owners may observe symptoms similar to other kidney issues, such as increased thirst, weight loss, or a dull coat. In some cases, the condition may be silent until it has progressed significantly.

Veterinarians use a combination of urinalysis and blood pressure monitoring to evaluate for this condition, as high blood pressure is a common complication. A biopsy may be suggested in specific cases to confirm the diagnosis. How this passes down is not settled, but the importance of screening remains the same. If your dog suddenly seems weak or shows a change in their gum color, this is a sign that the condition may have reached a critical stage.