Dog Bladder Stone

Dog bladder stones, also called uroliths, are solid mineral deposits that form in the urinary bladder. They can range from tiny sand-like crystals to large stones that cause pain and urinary blockage. Without treatment, they can lead to infection, kidney damage, or life-threatening obstruction.

Bladder stones cause pain, blood in urine, and frequent urination.
Poor diet, infection, and genetics are common causes.
Some stones dissolve with diet; others require surgery.
Males are more prone to urinary blockage due to narrow urethra.
Early diagnosis through X-ray or ultrasound is essential.

Why Does My Dog Get Bladder Stones?

Bladder stones develop when minerals like calcium, phosphate, ammonium, or magnesium build up in concentrated urine. When urine stays too long in the bladder or becomes too alkaline or acidic, crystals start to form. These crystals can stick together and grow into stones over time.

Types of Dog Dental Scaling

Struvite Stones

The most common type in dogs, often caused by urinary tract infections from Staphylococcus bacteria. They form in alkaline urine and may dissolve with prescription diets and antibiotics.

Calcium Oxalate Stones

Form when urine is acidic and calcium levels are high. These stones cannot dissolve with diet alone and often need surgery or laser removal. Breeds like Miniature Schnauzers, Lhasa Apsos, and Yorkshire Terriers are most affected.

Uric Acid (Urates) Stones

Caused by abnormal protein metabolism, common in Dalmatians and Bulldogs. These stones form due to high uric acid in the urine and require a special low-purine diet and medications to prevent recurrence.

Cystine Stones

Less common but genetic. Male dogs are more susceptible because cystine crystals form in the bladder and clump together. They can recur even after surgery unless managed with diet and medication.

Silicate Stones

Formed from diets rich in corn gluten, soy, or certain mineral-heavy foods. They’re rare but seen more in male dogs, particularly those fed homemade diets with high plant-based content.

Mixed Stones or Sand-Like Crystals

Sometimes, stones contain multiple mineral types or appear as fine grit. These can irritate the bladder wall and cause bleeding, even if they don’t fully block the urinary tract.

Symptoms of Dog Bladder Stone

Frequent Urination or Straining

Dogs may squat or attempt to urinate repeatedly but only produce small dribbles. They might cry or strain due to discomfort.

Blood in Urine (Hematuria)

Urine may appear pink, red, or brown. The blood comes from irritation of the bladder wall caused by stones scratching the tissue.

Painful Urination

Dogs may whimper, lick their genitals excessively, or show signs of distress during urination.

Abdominal Pain or Swelling

Stones can irritate the bladder lining, causing tenderness. The dog may resist being touched around the belly.

Urinating Indoors or in Unusual Places

Even well-trained dogs might suddenly urinate indoors because they can’t hold their bladder due to pain or urgency.

Strong Odor in Urine

A foul smell can indicate infection caused by bacteria living around the stones.

Cloudy or Gritty Urine

Tiny crystals or debris make the urine look cloudy or sandy. This suggests ongoing crystal formation.

Complete Urinary Blockage (Emergency)

If your dog cannot urinate at all, it’s a life-threatening emergency. Signs include pacing, restlessness, crying, and collapse. Immediate veterinary attention is crucial.

Prevention & Dog Care

Provide Plenty of Water

Encourage your dog to drink more by offering clean, fresh water daily. Hydration dilutes urine and prevents mineral buildup.

Regular Vet Checkups

Routine urinalysis and imaging help detect small stones before they grow large.

Feed the Right Diet

Choose a balanced, vet-approved diet tailored to your dog’s specific stone type. Avoid excessive protein, calcium, or high-mineral treats.

Post-Treatment Monitoring

After surgery or medical management, follow-up tests are essential. Some dogs need lifelong preventive diets.

Encourage Frequent Urination

Take your dog for regular bathroom breaks. Holding urine for long periods allows crystals to form.

Dog Bladder Stone FAQ

They form when minerals crystallize in concentrated urine. Diet, infections, dehydration, or genetics can trigger stone formation.

Yes. They cause pain, infection, and can block urination completely, which is life-threatening.

Some stones, like struvite, can dissolve with prescription diets and antibiotics. Others, like calcium oxalate, need surgery or laser removal.

Signs include blood in urine, straining, frequent urination, and pain. An X-ray or ultrasound confirms the diagnosis.

No. Proper diagnosis and veterinary guidance are needed to identify the stone type and correct treatment plan.

No, but untreated stones can lead to urinary infections that spread to the kidneys and cause severe damage.

Yes. You can explore more about dog problem and treatment on our dog page to stay informed and prepared.