Home » Diseases » In dogs » Urolithiasis (Uroliths (Urinary Tract Stones), Stones in the Kidney, Ureter, Bladder, or Urethra)

Urolithiasis (Uroliths (Urinary Tract Stones), Stones in the Kidney, Ureter, Bladder, or Urethra) in Dogs

Occurrence: common
Location of illness: Abdomen/pelvis

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

Urolithiasis in dogs refers to the formation of solid mineral deposits, known as stones, in various parts of the urinary tract, including the kidney, ureterThe ureter is the tube that connects the kidneys to the bladder. There are two ureters that transport urine from the kidneys to the bladder., bladder, or urethra.

The most important facts at a glance

Urolithiasis in dogs occurs when mineral substances in the urine crystallize and form solid particles that can be found in the kidney, ureterThe ureter is the tube that connects the kidneys to the bladder. There are two ureters that transport urine from the kidneys to the bladder., bladder, or urethra. This crystallization is influenced by factors such as urine pH, solute concentration, and urine flow rate. An unbalanced diet, genetic factors, and insufficient water consumption are common causes. Symptoms include frequent urinary urgency, pain when urinating, and Hematuria. 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 by clinical examination, urinalysis, and imaging procedures such as X-rays or 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 size and location of the stones and may include dietary changes, increased fluid intake, or surgery. After the stones are removed, a special diet can help prevent recurrence. PreventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. focuses on dietary adjustments and adequate hydration, supplemented by regular veterinary check-ups. Research is investigating genetic, nutritional, and diagnostic approaches to understand and prevent urinary stone formation. New diagnostic and therapeutic methods are being developed to make detection and treatment 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.. Advances in research offer promising approaches to the preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. and treatment of this disease.

Causes

Urolithiasis occurs when mineral substances in the urine crystallize and coalesce into solid particles. This crystallization is influenced by factors such as urine pH, solute concentration, and urine flow rate. A dog’s urine is a complex mixture of water, minerals, waste products, and other substances that normally remain in solution. 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 promote crystallization.

The main causes of urinary stone formation are varied. One of the most common causes is an unbalanced diet that leads to a high content of certain minerals, such as 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., magnesiumMagnesium is a vital mineral that plays a role in various bodily functions, including muscle and nerve function, blood sugar control, and blood pressure regulation. In dogs and cats, a magnesium deficiency can lead to health problems., and phosphate. These minerals can be deposited in the bladder and other parts of the urinary tract. Genetic factors also play a role, with certain dog breeds being more susceptible to developing Urolithiasis, such as Dalmatians and Miniature Schnauzers.

In addition, insufficient water consumption can increase the risk, as concentrated urine promotes the formation of crystals. Urinary tract 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., especially bacterial infections, can also promote crystal formation by altering the pH of the urine and promoting mineral deposits. Endocrine disorders such as hyperparathyroidism or Cushing’s syndromeA syndrome is a group of symptoms that occur together and indicate a specific disease or condition. A syndrome can be caused by various factors and is often complex in its diagnosis and treatment. can also increase the risk for Urolithiasis.

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Common symptoms:

Rare symptoms:

The symptoms of Urolithiasis in dogs vary depending on the location and size of the stones. One of the most common symptoms is dysuria, which means difficulty or pain when urinating. Dogs may pass frequent but only small amounts of urine. Sometimes Hematuria may be visible.

Other signs may include lethargy, loss of appetite, and general restlessness. Dogs may lick or bite their genital area excessively to relieve discomfort. If the stones block the flow of urine, this can lead to a serious medical emergency, manifested by inability to produce urine and extreme 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 Urolithiasis typically begins with a thorough clinical examination and patient 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 symptoms and perform a physical exam to identify signs of pain or other problems. Urinalysis is a crucial step that can help detect abnormalities in the urine, such as the presence of crystals or blood.

Imaging procedures such as X-rays or 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. scans are often used to determine the location and size of the stones. While X-rays are effective in identifying struvite 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. oxalate stones, 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 be helpful in visualizing soft tissue structures and non-radiopaque stones such as urateUrate refers to salts of uric acid that are excreted in urine. In dogs and cats, high urate concentrations can lead to the formation of urate stones in the urinary tract, especially in certain breeds or dietary conditions. stones. In some cases, cystoscopyCystoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a cystoscope, a thin tubular instrument with a camera, to directly view the bladder and urethra. It allows for the diagnosis of lower urinary tract conditions in dogs and cats, including Tumors, stones, and infections. may be required to perform a direct visual inspection of the bladder.

Therapy

The treatment of Urolithiasis in dogs depends on the size, location, and type of stones. Small stones that do not cause significant symptoms can sometimes be dissolved by a special diet or flushed out by increased fluid intake. Dietary management strategies aim to change the pH of the urine and reduce the concentration of the minerals involved.

In cases where the stones are too large or cause a blockage, surgery may be required. Cystotomy is a common surgical technique in which the bladder is opened to remove the stones. Alternatively, a non-invasive technique such as lithotripsy, which uses shock waves to break up the stones, may be used.

After the stones are removed, the dog is often placed on a special diet to minimize the risk of recurrence. At the same time, medications can be prescribed to relieve pain and treat infections, if present.

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosis for dogs with Urolithiasis varies depending on the severity of the condition and the timing of treatment. With early detection and appropriate treatment, 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 generally favorable, and many dogs recover completely. Stone removal and dietary adjustments can significantly reduce the risk of recurrence.

Dogs suffering from recurrentRecurrent refers to a disease that repeatedly returns or worsens after a temporary remission or improvement. urinary stones or underlying health problems that promote stone formation may require careful long-term monitoring. In such cases, regular veterinary care and possibly lifelong dietary adjustments are necessary to minimize the risk of complications.

Prevention

The preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. of Urolithiasis in dogs focuses primarily on dietary adjustments and adequate hydration. A balanced diet tailored to the specific needs of the dog can help reduce the risk of urinary stone formation. Special diet foods are available that aim to alter the pH of the urine and increase the solubility of potential stone formers.

Regular veterinary check-ups and urinalysis can help detect early signs of Urolithiasis and take timely action. It is also important to promote the dog’s water consumption by providing fresh water at all times and, if necessary, increasing water intake through wet food or adding water to dry food.

For dogs with a 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. to urinary stone formation, close monitoring and special preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. strategies may be required to minimize the risk of recurrence. Close cooperation with the veterinarian is crucial to create an individual preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. plan.

Outlook on current research

Current research on Urolithiasis in dogs focuses on the genetic, nutritional, and environmental factors that lead to the formation of urinary stones. Scientists are working to identify the specific genetic markers that make some dog breeds more susceptible to this condition. Certain breeds, such as Dalmatians and Miniature Schnauzers, are known to have an increased 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. to urinary stones, suggesting genetic factors. Research has made progress in identifying genes that affect the excretion of certain minerals, which could lead to better monitoring of at-risk animals.

Another focus of research is the investigation of dietary habits and their role in the preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. of Urolithiasis. Diets specifically tailored to prevent stone formation are being developed and tested. These diets are often low in proteinProteins are large molecules made up of amino acids and play an essential role in almost all biological processes. They are necessary for building body tissue, the function of the immune system, and as enzymes for metabolic reactions. and promote an optimal urine pH to prevent crystal formation. Researchers are also investigating the effect of supplements containing magnesiumMagnesium is a vital mineral that plays a role in various bodily functions, including muscle and nerve function, blood sugar control, and blood pressure regulation. In dogs and cats, a magnesium deficiency can lead to health problems., 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., and phosphorusPhosphorus is a vital mineral found in bones and teeth, playing a central role in energy metabolism and DNA. A balanced phosphorus to calcium ratio is essential for the health of dogs and cats. to achieve a balance in ureaUrea, also known as carbamide, is a waste product of protein metabolism in the body. It's formed in the liver and excreted by the kidneys in urine. The urea level in the blood indicates kidney function. metabolism.

In addition, there are ongoing studies to develop new diagnostic tools for early detection of Urolithiasis. Improving imaging techniques 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. and X-rays, as well as developing non-invasive tests to analyze urine for the presence of crystal-forming substances, are of great interest. Such advances could facilitate 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 allow early intervention to slow or prevent disease progressionProgression refers to the advancement or worsening of a disease over time. It describes an increase in the severity or extent of the disease symptoms..

In therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions., research focuses on the development of 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. treatment methods. Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, a technique that uses sound waves to break up stones, is being increasingly investigated. This method could be an alternative to surgery, especially in dogs that are too weak for surgery. Long-term, research is also being conducted to develop drugs that alter the chemical composition of urine to prevent stone formation.

In summary, research on Urolithiasis in dogs is a multidisciplinary field that includes genetic studies, nutritional science, imaging techniques, and therapeutic innovations. Advances in these areas offer promising approaches to the preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. and treatment of this painful and potentially dangerous disease.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is Urolithiasis in dogs? Urolithiasis is a condition in which solid deposits, known as Uroliths or stones, form in a dog’s urinary tract, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, or urethra. These stones can cause pain and block the normal flow of urine.
What are the symptoms of Urolithiasis in dogs? Common symptoms include frequent urination, Hematuria, pain when urinating, incontinenceIncontinence refers to the inability to voluntarily control urine or stool, leading to involuntary loss. There are various forms, including urinary incontinence and fecal incontinence, which can be caused by different factors., and in severe cases, lethargy or vomiting. If the flow of urine is completely blocked, it is a medical emergency.
What causes Urolithiasis in dogs? The cause can be multifactorialMultifactorial refers to conditions or diseases that arise from the interplay of several causes or risk factors. In dogs and cats, these can be genetic predispositions, environmental influences, and nutritional factors that together lead to health problems. and include 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., dietary habits, Urinary tract 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., and other medical conditions. Certain minerals in the urine can crystallize and form stones.
How is Urolithiasis diagnosed in dogs? 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 usually made through a combination of urinalysis, imaging procedures such as X-rays or 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., and sometimes by analyzing the stones themselves if they have been excreted or surgically removed.
What treatment options are available for dogs with Urolithiasis? Treatment depends on the size, location, and type of stones. Options may include dietary changes, drug therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions., or surgical removal of the stones. In some cases, shock wave lithotripsy may be used.
Can Uroliths disappear on their own in dogs? Small stones can sometimes be excreted on their own, especially if the dog receives a special diet that promotes dissolution. However, larger stones or those that block the flow of urine often require medical intervention.
How can Urolithiasis be prevented in dogs? Preventive measures include a balanced diet, promoting high water intake, and regular veterinary examinations. It may also be helpful to test the dog’s urine regularly to detect early signs of stone formation.
Are certain dog breeds more susceptible to Urolithiasis? Yes, some breeds such as Dalmatians, Miniature Schnauzers, Shih Tzus, and Lhasa Apsos have a higher 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. to developing Uroliths due to genetic factors and their specific 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. profiles.
Can a special diet help treat or prevent Urolithiasis? Yes, special diets can help prevent the formation of Uroliths or dissolve existing stones. These diets are often tailored to the specific stone or crystal type and regulate the pH of the urine as well as the content of certain minerals.
How important is hydration in preventing Urolithiasis? Adequate hydration is crucial as it dilutes the urine and promotes the excretion of minerals that can form stones. Dogs should have access to fresh water at all times to minimize the risk of stone formation.