Are Bichon Frise Predisposed to Kidney Problems?

Based on a recent health survey cited on the Bichon Frise Club of America Inc. website, primary health problems in the bichon are skin problems/allergies and bladder/kidney stones. Incidences of bladder/kidney stones have increased, from 3 percent in 1992 to 5 percent in 2007. While kidney disease accounted for 1 percent of bichon health issues in 2007, that percentage exhibits an increased trend in the incidence of that particular disease.

The kidneys filter waste, maintain a balance of the normal chemicals in the body and regulate blood pressure. They can be damaged by chemicals, germs, poisons, aging, trauma and disease. Long-term damage occurs over months or years until the damage reduces kidney function, eventually causing kidney failure. Sudden kidney failure can be irreversible and can permanently destroy kidney function. Excessive drinking and urination, or blood in the urine, can denote kidney disease.

Urinary stones can form in the dog's urinary tract or kidney, bladder or urethra, and block the flow of urine. The crystals, of which struvite and calcium oxalate are most common, irritate the urinary tract lining and can cause blood in the urine, pain and, in severe cases, difficult urination. Symptoms include frequent urination, urinating in odd places, blood in urine, dribbling, depression, weakness, straining, pain, vomiting and loss of appetite.

Some dogs with kidney stones can be treated with diet and medications, while others may require surgery. A stone blocking any part of the urinary system can cause a medical emergency. If your bichon becomes depressed and weak, or experiences nausea or vomiting, seek immediate veterinary care. Other symptoms include a firm belly, indicating the bladder is full, as well as a stiff-legged gait and hunched back, which may indicate discomfort from diseased kidneys.