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Cholelithiasis (Gallstones) in Dogs

Occurrence: rarer
Location of illness: Abdomen/pelvis

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 06.11.2025

Cholelithiasis, also known as gallstones, is a condition in which solid, stone-like deposits form in a dog’s gallbladder. These stones can vary in size and number and lead to various health problems.

The most important facts at a glance

Cholelithiasis in dogs, also called gallstones, occurs when solid deposits form in the gallbladder. These stones are caused by an imbalanceImbalance refers to an imbalance or disruption of normal function or composition in the body, which can lead to health problems. of bile components such as bile salts, bilirubinBilirubin is a yellow pigment that is produced when hemoglobin from red blood cells is broken down. It is further processed in the liver and then excreted via the bile. Elevated bilirubin levels may indicate liver dysfunction or impaired bile excretion., and cholesterolCholesterol is a fat-like substance found in the body and is necessary for many vital functions, including building cell membranes and producing hormones. However, high cholesterol levels in the blood can increase the risk of heart disease.. There are two main types: cholesterolCholesterol is a fat-like substance found in the body and is necessary for many vital functions, including building cell membranes and producing hormones. However, high cholesterol levels in the blood can increase the risk of heart disease. stones, which are caused by an excess of cholesterolCholesterol is a fat-like substance found in the body and is necessary for many vital functions, including building cell membranes and producing hormones. However, high cholesterol levels in the blood can increase the risk of heart disease., and pigment stones, which are formed by too much bilirubinBilirubin is a yellow pigment that is produced when hemoglobin from red blood cells is broken down. It is further processed in the liver and then excreted via the bile. Elevated bilirubin levels may indicate liver dysfunction or impaired bile excretion.. Factors such as genetic predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases., ObesityObesity is the medical term for severe overweight, characterized by an excessive accumulation of fat in the body. It is often defined by a body condition score that is above the ideal range., certain diets, and diseases that affect cholesterolCholesterol is a fat-like substance found in the body and is necessary for many vital functions, including building cell membranes and producing hormones. However, high cholesterol levels in the blood can increase the risk of heart disease. and bilirubinBilirubin is a yellow pigment that is produced when hemoglobin from red blood cells is broken down. It is further processed in the liver and then excreted via the bile. Elevated bilirubin levels may indicate liver dysfunction or impaired bile excretion. balance can lead to the formation of gallstones. Symptoms can include Vomiting, AbdominalThe term "abdominal" refers to anything that concerns the belly or the abdomen. It is an adjectival expression used to describe the location, symptoms, or conditions that occur in the abdominal area. pain, Fever, jaundice, and loss of appetite. DiagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is made through clinical examinations, medical historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits., and imaging procedures such as ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow.. Treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms and ranges from conservative monitoring to surgical removal of the stones or the entire gallbladder. Medications can also help relieve symptoms. The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. is usually good, especially after successful treatment, although relapses are possible. For preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring., dogs should receive a balanced diet that is high in fiber and low in saturated fats. Regular veterinary examinations help to detect early signs. Research aims to better understand the causes, improve diagnostic techniques, and develop more effective treatments.

Causes

The gallbladder is a small organ located directly under the liver that stores bile, a fluid necessary for the digestion of fats. Bile is produced by the liver and concentrated and stored in the gallbladder until it is needed. The main components of bile are water, bile salts, bilirubinBilirubin is a yellow pigment that is produced when hemoglobin from red blood cells is broken down. It is further processed in the liver and then excreted via the bile. Elevated bilirubin levels may indicate liver dysfunction or impaired bile excretion., and cholesterolCholesterol is a fat-like substance found in the body and is necessary for many vital functions, including building cell membranes and producing hormones. However, high cholesterol levels in the blood can increase the risk of heart disease.. An imbalanceImbalance refers to an imbalance or disruption of normal function or composition in the body, which can lead to health problems. of these components can lead to the formation of gallstones.

There are two main types of gallstones: cholesterolCholesterol is a fat-like substance found in the body and is necessary for many vital functions, including building cell membranes and producing hormones. However, high cholesterol levels in the blood can increase the risk of heart disease. stones and pigment stones. CholesterolCholesterol is a fat-like substance found in the body and is necessary for many vital functions, including building cell membranes and producing hormones. However, high cholesterol levels in the blood can increase the risk of heart disease. stones are caused by an excess of cholesterolCholesterol is a fat-like substance found in the body and is necessary for many vital functions, including building cell membranes and producing hormones. However, high cholesterol levels in the blood can increase the risk of heart disease. in the bile, while pigment stones are caused by an excess of bilirubinBilirubin is a yellow pigment that is produced when hemoglobin from red blood cells is broken down. It is further processed in the liver and then excreted via the bile. Elevated bilirubin levels may indicate liver dysfunction or impaired bile excretion., a waste product of hemoglobinhemoglobin is an iron-containing protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to the body tissues and carbon dioxide back to the lungs. breakdown. The exact mechanisms of gallstone formation are complex and can be influenced by genetic, nutritional, and metabolicMetabolic refers to metabolism, i.e. the entirety of chemical processes that take place in a living organism to enable life processes. Metabolic disorders can cause a variety of Diseases in Dogs and cats. factors.

Causes for the development of gallstones in dogs include genetic predispositions, ObesityObesity is the medical term for severe overweight, characterized by an excessive accumulation of fat in the body. It is often defined by a body condition score that is above the ideal range., certain diets, and conditions that affect cholesterolCholesterol is a fat-like substance found in the body and is necessary for many vital functions, including building cell membranes and producing hormones. However, high cholesterol levels in the blood can increase the risk of heart disease. and bilirubinBilirubin is a yellow pigment that is produced when hemoglobin from red blood cells is broken down. It is further processed in the liver and then excreted via the bile. Elevated bilirubin levels may indicate liver dysfunction or impaired bile excretion. balance. Anatomical abnormalities of the gallbladder or bile ducts can also play a role. Certain breeds, such as Miniature Schnauzers, appear to be more susceptible to developing gallstones.

Another factor that can contribute to the formation of gallstones is decreased gallbladder motility, also known as gallbladder dyskinesia. This can lead to inadequate emptying of bile and an increased concentration of the components that promote stone formation.

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Common symptoms:

Rare symptoms:

The symptoms of cholelithiasis in dogs can vary depending on the size and number of stones, as well as their location. In many cases, dogs show no obvious symptoms, especially if the stones are small and do not cause a blockage.

If symptoms do occur, they may include Vomiting, loss of appetite, AbdominalThe term “abdominal” refers to anything that concerns the belly or the abdomen. It is an adjectival expression used to describe the location, symptoms, or conditions that occur in the abdominal area. pain, jaundice (a yellowish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes), and lethargy. These symptoms may appear suddenly or develop over a longer period of time.

A dog with gallstones may also show signs of discomfort or Pain, especially after eating, as the gallbladder is more active in the digestion of fats. In severe cases, gallstones can cause inflammation or infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. of the gallbladder, known as cholecystitis, which can lead to Fever and severe AbdominalThe term “abdominal” refers to anything that concerns the belly or the abdomen. It is an adjectival expression used to describe the location, symptoms, or conditions that occur in the abdominal area. pain.

Diagnosis

The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of cholelithiasis in dogs usually begins with a thorough clinical examination and a detailed medical historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits.. The veterinarian will ask about specific symptoms and risk factors that may indicate gallstones.

Imaging procedures are crucial for the diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of gallstones. X-rays can be helpful in identifying larger stones, but ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. examinations are the preferred method for detecting gallstones because they provide a more detailed view of the gallbladder and bile ducts. UltrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. can also help rule out other potential causes for the symptoms.

Additional tests, such as blood tests, may be performed to assess liver function and look for signs of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. or Inflammatory conditions. In some cases, a biopsyA biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small amount of tissue is removed from the body to be examined under a microscope for signs of disease. Biopsies can help diagnose cancer and other conditions. or an endoscopic examination may be necessary to confirm the diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and rule out other conditions.

Therapy

The treatment of gallstones in dogs depends on the severity of the symptoms and the size of the stones. In cases where the stones do not cause symptoms, conservative monitoring with regular check-ups may be sufficient. The veterinarian may also recommend a special diet to thin the bile and reduce the risk of further stone formation.

If the stones cause symptoms or complications such as an infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. or blockage of the bile ducts occur, surgical removal of the stones or the entire gallbladder may be necessary. This operation, known as a cholecystectomy, is usually performed under general anesthesiaGeneral anesthesia is a medical procedure that induces unconsciousness and eliminates pain during surgical procedures. It involves the use of anesthetics to temporarily shut down the body's overall perception. and requires careful postoperativePostoperative refers to the time after a surgical operation. This phase includes recovery and the management of possible complications after the procedure. monitoring.

In some cases, the veterinarian may prescribe medications to help dissolve the stones or treat gallbladder dyskinesia. These medications can help relieve symptoms and avoid or delay the need for surgery.

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosis for dogs with cholelithiasis depends on several factors, including the size and number of stones, the presence of complications, and the dog’s general health. In many cases, dogs can achieve a good quality of life after treatment, especially after successful surgery.

Early diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and treatment are crucial to avoid complications and improve the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop.. Dogs that do not develop severe complications and in whom the stones are successfully removed usually have a favorable prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop..

However, relapses can occur in some dogs, especially if the underlying causes of stone formation are not addressed. Regular follow-up care and adjustments to diet and lifestyle can help reduce the risk of stone recurrence.

Prevention

The preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. of gallstones in dogs focuses on minimizing the risk factors that can contribute to stone formation. A balanced diet that is high in fiber and low in saturated fats can help reduce the risk of gallstones. It is important that the dog’s diet is tailored to its individual needs and health condition.

Regular exercise can also help reduce the risk of gallstones by controlling the dog’s weight and supporting gallbladder health. Overweight and ObesityObesity is the medical term for severe overweight, characterized by an excessive accumulation of fat in the body. It is often defined by a body condition score that is above the ideal range. are known risk factors for the development of gallstones, so a healthy body weight is crucial.

A regular veterinary check-up can help detect early signs of gallstones or other health problems. In dogs that are genetically or breed-prone to gallstones, the veterinarian may recommend additional precautions, such as special diets or supplements.

Outlook on current research

In current research on cholelithiasis in dogs, there are several focuses. A significant area is the investigation of the causes and risk factors that lead to the formation of gallstones in dogs. Scientists are investigating genetic predispositions, dietary habits, and environmental factors that could increase the likelihood of gallstone formation. Through studies on various dog breeds, researchers are trying to find out whether certain breeds are more susceptible to this disease than others.

Another area of research focuses on the diagnostic techniques for gallstones in dogs. While ultrasound is the most common method for detecting gallstones, more efficient and less invasiveInvasive describes medical procedures or pathogens that enter the body or penetrate tissue. In medicine, invasive procedures can range from minimally invasive techniques to open surgery. methods are being sought. Researchers are developing advanced imaging techniques that can not only detect the presence of gallstones but also determine their composition and location more accurately.

The treatment of cholelithiasis in dogs is also an active area of research. Current studies are evaluating the effectiveness of drug treatments compared to surgical interventions. It is being investigated whether certain drugs can promote the dissolution of gallstones and how they compare to traditional surgical procedures. In addition, research is being conducted on new surgical techniques that promise faster recovery and fewer complications.

The preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. of gallstones is another important field of research. Scientists are exploring various dietary approaches that could reduce the risk of stone formation. These include studies on special feeds and supplements that could support gallbladder function and optimize cholesterolCholesterol is a fat-like substance found in the body and is necessary for many vital functions, including building cell membranes and producing hormones. However, high cholesterol levels in the blood can increase the risk of heart disease. levels in the dog’s body.

Finally, researchers are investigating the long-term effects of gallstones and their treatment on the overall health and quality of life of dogs. Long-term studies aim to assess the frequency of relapses and the quality of life of dogs after treatment for gallstones. These studies are crucial to developing the best treatment and management strategies for affected dogs.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What are gallstones in dogs? Gallstones, also known as cholelithiasis, are solid deposits that can form in a dog’s gallbladder. They consist mainly of cholesterolCholesterol is a fat-like substance found in the body and is necessary for many vital functions, including building cell membranes and producing hormones. However, high cholesterol levels in the blood can increase the risk of heart disease., bilirubinBilirubin is a yellow pigment that is produced when hemoglobin from red blood cells is broken down. It is further processed in the liver and then excreted via the bile. Elevated bilirubin levels may indicate liver dysfunction or impaired bile excretion., and calciumCalcium is a mineral that is essential for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth. It also plays a role in blood coagulation, nerve transmission, and muscle contraction. salts and can vary in size. These stones can block the gallbladder and bile ducts, which can lead to Pain and other health problems.
How do I know if my dog has gallstones? The symptoms of gallstones in dogs can include AbdominalThe term "abdominal" refers to anything that concerns the belly or the abdomen. It is an adjectival expression used to describe the location, symptoms, or conditions that occur in the abdominal area. pain, Vomiting, loss of appetite, jaundice, and general malaise. In some cases, however, gallstones can be asymptomaticAsymptomatic means that there are no recognizable symptoms of a disease. An animal can have a disease or infection without showing visible signs, which can make diagnosis and treatment more difficult. and only be discovered through imaging procedures such as ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow.. A veterinarian should be consulted if gallstones are suspected.
Which dogs are most susceptible to gallstones? Although gallstones are relatively rare in dogs, certain breeds such as Miniature Schnauzers and Shetland Sheepdogs may be more susceptible. Factors such as age, gender, and genetic predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases. can also play a role. Older and female dogs may be at higher risk of developing gallstones.
How are gallstones diagnosed in dogs? The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of gallstones is usually made by imaging procedures such as ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. or X-rayX-ray is an imaging technique that uses X-rays to create images of the inside of the body. It is often used to diagnose bone fractures, lung diseases, and other conditions.. These methods allow the veterinarian to visualize the stones in the gallbladder or bile ducts. Blood tests can also be performed to detect signs of inflammation or liver dysfunctionDysfunction refers to an impaired or abnormal function of an organ or system in the body. This can be due to diseases, disorders, or damage and can affect the quality of life..
What treatment options are available for gallstones in dogs? The treatment of gallstones depends on the size, location, and symptoms. In some cases, medications may be prescribed to dissolve the stones. For larger or problematic stones, surgery may be required to remove the stones. The veterinarian will recommend the best treatment option based on the individual case of the dog.
Can gallstones in dogs be treated without surgery? Yes, in some cases, gallstones can be treated with medications that help dissolve the stones. However, these treatments are not always effective, especially for large or numerous stones. Regular check-ups are necessary to monitor progress and adjust treatment if necessary.
How can I prevent gallstones in my dog? A balanced diet and regular exercise can reduce the risk of gallstone formation. Some veterinarians recommend special diets or supplements that support gallbladder health. It is also important to have regular veterinary visits to monitor the dog’s health.
Is gallstone removal risky in dogs? As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with gallstone removal. These can include infections, Bleeding, or complications from anesthesiaAnesthesia refers to the state of insensitivity to pain and can be partial (local anesthesia) or for the entire body (general anesthesia). It is used to keep patients pain-free during surgical procedures.. However, most dogs recover well after surgery, especially if the procedure is performed by an experienced veterinarian.
How long is the recovery time after surgery to remove gallstones? The recovery time varies depending on the age, health condition, and type of surgery performed. In general, dogs need a few weeks to fully recover from gallstone surgery. During this time, they should rest and follow the veterinarian’s recommendations regarding activity level and diet.
Can gallstones in dogs disappear on their own? In some rare cases, small gallstones may disappear on their own or go unnoticed without causing symptoms. However, larger stones or those that cause complications usually require medical treatment. It is important to have regular veterinary examinations to monitor the condition of the gallbladder.