What are bladder stones?

Is your dog having trouble urinating? It’s quite possible he has bladder stones. What are bladder stones? Bladder stones form as a result of mineral deposits in a dog’s urinary tract. As time goes on, these crystals gather together to form stones.  Bladder stones are primarily found in the bladder however they can be found in the urinary tract, kidneys, urethra and/or ureters.  The development of bladder stones in dogs is a painful and serious condition.  In fact, if the entire urethra is blocked by a bladder stone and thereby prevents your dog from urinating, death can result as toxins and waste will build up in your dog’s body.

So, what causes bladder stones in dogs anyway?

1. As your dog ages, he becomes more susceptible a host of medical conditions, including bladder stones.
2. High protein diets may increase your dog’s chances dealing with this painful condition. Additionally, dietary supplements, most notable magnesium and calcium, may also pose an increased risk of developing bladder stones.
3. Exercise is crucial for dogs of all ages. It has been found that a lack of exercise contributes to the likelihood that your dog may develop bladder stones.
4. Bladders stones, while not entirely breed specific, tend to form more frequently in certain breeds. If you have a small dog, this is one such condition you should be on the lookout for. Breeds such as a: Pug, Pekingese, Yorkshire terrier, Beagle, Dachshund, Welsh Corgi, Miniature Schnauzer, Bulldog, and Cocker Spaniel, are highly susceptible to developing bladder stones.
5. Bacterial infections can wreck havoc on your dog’s little body. One way bacteria affect a dog’s body is that is the perfect breeding ground for the formation of bladder stones.

Now that I know what causes bladder stones in dogs, what should I look for?

There are some very classic, straightforward symptoms of bladder stones in dogs and they all have to do with your dog’s urinary habits.

1. Blood in the urine
2. Pain or discomfort while urinating
3. Straining to urinate
4. Increased need to urinate
5. Urinating in small (yet frequent) amounts
6. Accidents in the home or other places that it’s off limits to urinate

If you notice any of the above symptoms of bladder stones, we urge to contact your veterinary professionals at once. There are conventional and holistic methods for treating as well as preventing the formation of bladder stones in your dog. Neglecting to seek medical care to treat bladders stones may have life threatening results for your dog.

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