Genetics<\/strong> \u2013 Certain breeds, such as Dalmatians, Miniature Schnauzers, and Lhasa Apsos, are genetically predisposed to developing kidney stones.<\/p>\n Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)<\/strong> \u2013 Chronic UTIs<\/a><\/span> can alter the pH of urine and encourage stone formation.<\/p>\n Dehydration<\/strong> \u2013 Insufficient water intake leads to concentrated urine, increasing the risk of mineral deposits forming stones.<\/p>\n Metabolic Disorders<\/strong> \u2013 Conditions like hypercalcemia (high blood calcium levels) or Cushing\u2019s disease can contribute to kidney stone development.<\/p>\n Medications<\/strong> \u2013 Some medications, particularly those affecting calcium metabolism, may increase the likelihood of kidney stone formation.<\/p>\n Dogs with kidney stones may exhibit varying symptoms depending on the severity and size of the stones. Common signs include:<\/p>\n A veterinarian will diagnose kidney stones through:<\/p>\n The treatment approach depends on the size, location, and type of kidney stones. Common treatment methods include:<\/p>\n In severe cases where stones cause blockages or pain, surgical intervention such as nephrolithotomy (removal of kidney stones) may be necessary.<\/p>\n This procedure uses sound waves to break down kidney stones into smaller fragments, making them easier to pass through urine.<\/p>\n A well-balanced diet plays a crucial role in preventing and managing kidney stones. The right dietary plan depends on the type of kidney stones a dog has.<\/p>\n Calcium Oxalate Stones<\/strong><\/p>\n Reduce oxalate-rich foods such as spinach, sweet potatoes, and beets.<\/p>\n Feed a moderate-calcium diet, avoiding excessive calcium supplements.<\/p>\n Provide diets with balanced levels of phosphorus and magnesium.<\/p>\n Struvite Stones<\/strong><\/p>\n Struvite stones are often linked to UTIs, so addressing infections is key.<\/p>\n A diet that promotes acidic urine can help dissolve struvite stones.<\/p>\n Prescription urinary health diets may be beneficial.<\/p>\n Urate Stones<\/strong><\/p>\n Common in Dalmatians and dogs with liver conditions.<\/p>\n A low-purine diet (avoiding organ meats and certain seafood) is recommended.<\/p>\n Alkalizing the urine with prescription diets helps prevent recurrence.<\/p>\n Cystine Stones<\/strong><\/p>\n More common in breeds like Newfoundlands and Bulldogs.<\/p>\n A diet low in animal protein is often recommended.<\/p>\n Medications may be needed to prevent stone formation.<\/p>\n Prevention is key to reducing the likelihood of kidney stones in dogs. Pet owners can take the following measures:<\/p>\n Are you finding this article useful?<\/strong> <\/em>Would you like 100% free access to more articles like these, and free access to over 5,000 vetted pet care service professionals<\/a><\/span> throughout the United States? Sign up here <\/a><\/span>for a free Petworks account, and we’ll email you a\u00a0 10% discount code, good towards your first pet care services booking on Petworks!<\/span><\/p>\n Yes, in many cases, kidney stones in dogs can be managed without surgery, depending on the type, size, and location of the stones, as well as the presence of any underlying conditions. Non-surgical treatment options focus on dissolving or removing the stones using medical therapies or minimally invasive procedures.<\/p>\n Struvite stones, one of the most common types of kidney stones in dogs, can often be dissolved through dietary therapy. Veterinarians may prescribe special diets formulated to acidify the urine and reduce the concentration of minerals that form struvite crystals. These diets are typically low in magnesium and phosphorus and may include brands like Hill\u2019s Prescription Diet\u00ae s\/d\u00ae or Royal Canin Urinary\u00ae SO\u2122. Treatment duration can vary, but it often takes several weeks to months, and regular veterinary check-ups are essential to monitor progress Vca<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/span>.<\/p>\n For certain cases, non-surgical procedures can be employed to remove kidney stones:<\/p>\n Voiding Urohydropropulsion<\/strong>: This technique involves flushing the bladder with a sterile solution to expel small stones. It’s typically used for bladder stones but may be applicable in specific kidney stone cases Vca<\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/span>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n![\"Kidney](\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Petworks-Pet-Care-Service-Pro-Tips-e1736622469982.png\")
Symptoms of Kidney Stones in Dogs<\/h3>\n\n
\u201cKidney stones are rare in dogs and cats,\u201d explains Dr. Jo Myers, a veterinarian on the Vetster platform. \u201cUrinary stones are far more likely to develop in a dog or cat\u2019s bladder.\u201d – Dr. Jo Myers, DVM<\/em><\/a><\/span><\/p>\nDiagnosis of Kidney Stones<\/h3>\n
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Treatment Options for Kidney Stones in Dogs<\/h3>\n
1. Medical Management<\/strong><\/h4>\n
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2. Surgical Removal<\/strong><\/h4>\n
3. Lithotripsy<\/strong><\/h4>\n
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Nutritional Advice for Dogs with Kidney Stones<\/h3>\nGeneral Nutritional Guidelines:<\/strong><\/h4>\n
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Dietary Recommendations for Specific Stone Types:<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Preventing Kidney Stones in Dogs<\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\nSo…Can Kidney Stones in Dogs Be Treated Without Surgery?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Medical Dissolution<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Non-Surgical Removal Techniques<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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