- Dr. Tara Miller
- Feb 23
- 4 min read
As a loving pet owner, you always want the best for your furry companion. When it comes to their health, being informed and proactive can make a significant difference.
One health issue that can affect our canine companions is bladder stones. Let’s dive into understanding bladder stones in dogs and how VEG ER for Pets emergency vets can help your pet if you spot the signs.
Can dogs get bladder stones?
Yes, much like when people get kidney stones, dogs can develop bladder stones. Bladder stones, or cystic calculi, are hard mineral and acid salts deposits that form inside the bladder.
There are different types of bladder stones dogs can develop which affect treatment plans, so a complete veterinary examination of your pet for an accurate diagnosis is crucial.
Types of bladder stones in dogs
Struvite (Magnesium Ammonium Phosphate)
Cause: These often form with urinary tract infections (UTIs) because bacteria make urine less acidic (alkaline).
Common in: Female dogs.
Treatment: Can often be dissolved with special diets, antibiotics, and urine acidification.
Calcium Oxalate (CaOx)
Cause: High oxalate, low moisture diets, certain endocrine diseases (Cushing's), high blood calcium, or genetics
Common in: Shih Tzus, Miniature Poodles, Bichons, Yorkies
Treatment: Often requires surgical removal and long-term dietary changes
Urate (Uric Acid)
Cause: Liver problems (like portosystemic shunts) or genetic inability to metabolize uric acid
Common in: Very prevalent in Dalmatians, also English Bulldogs and male dogs with shunts
Treatment: Dietary management to raise urine pH
Cystine
Cause: Genetic defect where kidneys can't reabsorb the amino acid cystine
Common in: Newfoundlands, Dachshunds, Basset Hounds, Yorkshire Terriers, most often in males
Treatment: Dietary changes to alkalinize urine (pH > 7.5)
Silica (Silicon Dioxide)
Cause: Linked to ingestion of silicates, possibly from very plant-based diets
Common in: German Shepherds, Goldens, Labs, Old English Sheepdogs
Symptoms of bladder stones in dogs
Some common signs of bladder stones in dogs include:
Frequent urination
Straining to urinate
Pain or discomfort in their belly
It’s important to note that some dogs may show no signs at all, which is why regular checkups are so important for your pet’s health, so potential issues can be identified before they become severe.
If your dog suddenly becomes lethargic, refuses to eat, vomits, or shows any distress related to urination, it’s time to seek immediate veterinary attention.
What dog owners should know if a dog has bladder stones
Diagnosis and treatment for canine bladder stones
At VEG emergency vet hospital, our experienced vets use a combination of physical examinations, urine tests, X-rays, and ultrasound to diagnose bladder stones. These diagnostic tools help determine the size and location of the stone, as well as the method of treatment to follow.
Treatment options for dog's bladder stones
Treatment can range from dietary changes and medication to surgery, depending on the stone’s size and location. It’s essential to consult with your VEG veterinarian for an appropriate course of action.
Please refrain from seeking in-home treatments or remedies without professional guidance. At VEG, we prioritize your pet’s health and well-being, ensuring they receive the best care.
Bladder stone preventative measures
Maintain your dog's proper diet and hydration
A well-balanced diet and ensuring your dog remains hydrated are vital in preventing the formation of bladder stones. Always make sure your dog has fresh water available and talk to your vet about ways to increase hydration if needed such as adding salt-free bone broth to their food or adding/switching to canned food.
Your primary care vet can provide you with specific dietary recommendations tailored to your pet’s needs.
Schedule regular vet check-ups for your dog
Routine check-ups at your primary care veterinarian can help monitor your dog’s bladder health and catch any potential issues early. Our VEG emergency vet staff is here for you if you notice any changes in your pet’s urinary habits or if they exhibit any of the symptoms noted above. This proactive approach is key in preventing severe complications and ensuring your dog’s longevity and happiness.
Call VEG 24-hour vet hospital if you suspect your dog has bladder stones
While bladder stones in dogs can be concerning, being informed and vigilant about their health can help address and manage the condition effectively.
Should you notice any symptoms or have concerns about your pet’s health, don’t hesitate to visit one of our VEG dog hospital locations. Your pet’s well-being is our utmost priority, and our dedicated teams are here to support you every step of the way.
FAQs: Common questions about bladder stones in dogs
Which dog breeds are most likely to get bladder stones?
While bladder stones can occur in pets of any age, females, certain breeds and older dogs may be more susceptible.
Smaller dogs like Cairn and Yorkshire Terriers, Miniature Schnauzers, Bichon Frise, Pomeranians, Shih Tzus, Maltese and Lhasa Apsos are prone to bladder stones. Larger breeds susceptible to bladder stones include Dalmations (very susceptible to urate stones), German Shepherds, Old English Sheep Dogs, Newfoundlands and Golden and Labrador Retrievers.
What causes bladder stones in dogs?
The exact cause can vary. However, factors like dehydration, urinary tract infections (UTIs), genetic predisposition, diet, and certain metabolic disorders and prescription drugs can increase your dog’s risk.
Can bladder stones reoccur in dogs?
They can, often for the same reasons that made them appear in the first place. Certain breeds, genetics, propensity to UTIs can make some dogs more susceptible to recurrence, but working closely with your vet to create a plan that addresses root causes can help minimize the risk of bladder stone formation happening again.
Can dogs pass bladder stones?
It depends. Bladder stones can vary in size, from some so small they can pass in normal urine flow, to others large enough to block the urethra—the tube that carries urine from the bladder to outside the body. The sharp edges of the stones can cut the urethra as they travel through the tube, which can cause blood in the urine.
If the urethra is completely blocked by a stone, this becomes a life-threatening emergency, so it’s crucial to recognize the symptoms early.
