What Are The Best Dog Food for Bladder Stones (2023)

Here is our review of the best dog food for bladder stones.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes. Please consult your vet for more information.

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Try our homemade recipe.

Is your dog having frequent house accidents, an increased desire to urinate, or straining to urinate? Do you see any blood in its urine? If yes, your canine pal may be suffering from bladder stones.

This sends chills down your spine, and low energy and appetite, accompanied by vomiting, make matters worse. You want to give your dog the best care possible but don’t know where to start. The first step is to take your pet to the veterinarian.

You should not be concerned if you receive a positive diagnosis. Your puppy can live a normal life with proper treatment and nutrition. The importance of diet in controlling and minimizing the occurrence and severity of bladder stones cannot be overstated.

Bladder Stones

These stones form in the urinary bladder due to minerals in the urine clumping together. Stones of various types can form, requiring a unique control measure. The stones can be large, small, or a combination of the two. Calcium oxalates and struvite stones are the most common stones found in dogs.

Your dog requires a high-quality diet to improve its health and prevent the formation of new bladder stones.

Your primary responsibility is to serve the proper meal. This is critical because serving the incorrect one can have serious health consequences ranging from allergies to stomach problems.

The selection procedure is far from simple. This is due to increased competition in the pet food industry, with every brand claiming to be the best for bladder stones. We’ve reduced your chances of purchasing incorrect food by providing you with the top ten bladder stone recipes. We’ve carefully selected them based on various factors, including customer ratings and reviews.

We take it a step further by providing you with the properties of the best food for bladder stones. This makes it simple to purchase recipes not included in our review. In addition, we provide an overview of bladder stones in dogs. By the end of this article, you will understand the warning signs, causes of bladder stones, diagnosis, and treatment options. Let’s get started.

What Causes Bladder Stones in Dogs?

As stated earlier, bladder stones are mineralized formations in the urinary bladder. Here are the major causes of bladder stones

Mineral crystals

Increased levels of minerals in urine may lead to stone formation. Common minerals that can clump together include calcium, phosphorus, ammonia, and magnesium. Diet is vital for mineralized formations. 

Urine pH

This is the measure of your dog’s urine acidity. The levels are measured using hydrogen ion concentration. A value below 7 is acidic, while one above 7 is alkaline. A value of 7 gives neutral results. Some stones thrive in acidic urine, while others form easily in alkaline urine.

Bacteria

The presence of bacteria in urine may cause stone formation. Bacteria that cause urinary tract infections, like E. Coli, also contribute to the formation of blender stones. 

Diseases

Abnormal blood flow to the liver may lead to mineralized formations that cause bladder stones. Other health issues that predispose your pup to bladder stones include diabetes. 

Age

Senior dogs are at a higher risk of developing diseases predisposing them to stone formation. This includes conditions that raise the likelihood of infections, which can lead to struvite stones, as well as increased calcium levels in the blood or urine, which can lead to the formation of calcium oxalate stones. 

Medications

Some rugs increase the chances of bladder stone formation. Such medications include tetracyclines, ascorbic acid, sulfa, cortisone, and Lasix.

Breed

Some dogs are more exposed to bladder stone formation than others. This is purely due to their genetic makeup. Small dogs, including Lhasa Apsos, Bichon Frises, Shih Tzus, Miniature Schnauzers, and Yorkshire Terriers, are predisposed to calcium oxalate stones. At the same time, Pekingese, Dachshunds, and Miniature Poodles are prone to struvite stones. 

Other congenital issues like liver shunt, which raises ammonia levels in urine and blood and thus exposes dogs to urate stones, are common in Pugs, Miniature Schnauzers, Malteses, and Yorkshire Terriers. Dalmatians and Bulldogs have an inherited defect in uric acid metabolism that also exposes them to bladder stones. 

Poor hydration

Hydration is essential because it causes dogs to urinate frequently. Increased water consumption ensures proper dilution of urinary stones, reducing the risk of stone formation.

Causes such as dehydration are manageable. It is possible to increase your dog’s water intake. Make sure your dog has access to fresh, clean water. Serving canned meals is also an excellent way to keep your dog hydrated.

What Are the Symptoms of Bladder Stones in Dogs?

It is important to know the symptoms to watch out for as it ensures the problem can be detected and treated early before it progresses to chronic stages. The symptoms vary with the location of the stones. Common signs include the following.

• Abdominal pain.
• Straining to urinate.
• Urinating small amounts frequently.
• Blood in the urine.
• Discolored or cloudy urine.
• Lethargy and weakness.
• Vomiting. 

Any of these symptoms call for a visit to the vet. The vet carries out the necessary tests to rule out other underlying problems and give the correct diagnosis.

How Are Bladder Stones Diagnosed?

Common diagnostic tests are discussed below:

Urinalysis

This test gives the urine pH and the presence of crystals or bacteria in the urine. Common urine abnormalities that can be revealed through urinalysis include blood in urine, crystals, increased proteins, raised white blood cells, bacteria, and low or high pH levels. 

Urine culture

This helps identify the type of bacteria in the urine. It is important as it dictates the type of antibiotic to use. 

Radiography

This is the best test for radiopaque stones, including struvites and calcium oxalates. X-rays reveal the presence of such stones in the bladder. 

Ultrasound

Some stones, including ammonia urates, are radiolucent and will not show in the X-rays. Ultrasound comes in handy when looking for such stones. 

A positive diagnosis calls for the correct treatment. 

How Are Bladder Stones in Dogs Treated?

Treatment varies with the type and location of the stones. Here are the main treatment options.

Surgical removal

This is the fastest way of treating bladder stones. However, it may not be the right choice for dogs with underlying health issues or those that may not do well with anesthesia.  A cystotomy accesses and opens the bladder so the stones can be removed. 

Non-surgical treatment

This treatment applies to small stones. A non-surgical procedure called urohydropropulsion flushes out the tiny stones from the bladder. Heavy sedation is important but your dog can go through it with general anesthesia. 

Dietary dissolution

Some diets are tailored to dissolve bladder stones and come in handy as alternative treatment options. The meals are customized according to the type of stones. However, some dogs may not like it, and the healing process may be longer. 

What Are the Properties of the Best Dog Food for Bladder Stones?

Specific characteristics distinguish bladder stone dissolution formulas. These characteristics reduce the likelihood of bladder stone formation and dissolve existing stones. The best nutritional plan, however, is determined by your dog’s specific diagnosis. Always collaborate with your veterinarian to provide the best care for your pet.

Calcium oxalate stones

These stones require a formula that dilutes urine for reduced acidity. Such formulas should include low to moderate levels of animal-based proteins. Go for canned meals. Their increased moisture content dilutes your pup’s urine. 

Always ensure your dog can access fresh and clean water if relying on a dry meal. Avoid organ meat and fillers like wheat as they have a high oxalate content. Spinach, brown rice, and sweet potatoes also have a high oxalate content. 

Avoid vitamin C as it becomes palate when metabolized. Vitamin B supplements are great since they are water-soluble and excreted in the urine. 

Struvite stones

These stones need a diet that raises acidity to avoid recurrence. Minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants boost immunity and prevent further stone formation. 

Look for ingredients with increased levels of antioxidants. Such ingredients include blueberries and other superfoods. Keep your dog hydrated, and choose a low-protein formula with minimal magnesium and phosphorus. 

Urate stones

They are also known as purines and are not as common as struvite and calcium oxalate stones. They are formed in highly acidic urine and need a meal low in organ meat and rich in veggies. 

Cystine bladder stones

These stones are rare. However, such stones can occur and are more common in males than females. The wet or canned formula is best as it dilutes your dog’s urine, thus minimizing the risk of concentrated urine. Concentrated urine creates an enabling environment for the stones to form. A low-protein meal with minimal amounts of animal-based sources is key. 

Therapeutic diets include these properties in their formulations. Look for high-quality brands with the best meals for bladder stones. 

What Are the Leading Brands for the Best Dog Food for Bladder Stones?

Premium brands provide meals that include all the features listed above. The recipes may be a bit pricey, but they are crafted specifically for your dog’s bladder wellness. Here are the top 5 brands with the best recipes for canine bladder stones:

• Royal Canin.
• Purina.
• Blue Buffalo.
• Nom Nom.
• Hill’s Prescription Diet.

Each brand has a unique price depending on various factors, like the quality of the ingredient. However, our leading brands have an average price of $4.30, ranging from $3.59 to $7.74 per lb. 

Dog breeds prone to bladder stones require these meals from puppyhood. Nutritional requirements also vary with your dog’s life stage. Older dogs need fewer proteins compared to puppies. Here’s a summary of the best dog food for bladder stones:

• Best Overall: Royal Canin Urinary Dry Food – $102.99 per 25.3-lb bag ($4.07-lb).

• Best Price-Effective: Purina Veterinary Dry Food – $89.99 per 25-lb bag ($3.59-lb).
• Best Canned Formula: Blue Buffalo Wet Food – $39.36 per 12.5-oz can, case of 12 ($3.15-oz).
• Best for Weight Management: Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet W+U Weight Management + Urinary Care Dry Food – $89.98 per 22-lb bag ($4.09-lb).

• Best Fresh Formula: Nom Nom Fresh Pet Food Delivery – Prices vary with your dog’s needs. 

Please Note that these prices are as of 30th December 2022.

Royal Canin UrinaryFood ( Best Overall)

This meal from Royal Canin Veterinary Diets is a veterinary-exclusive meal crafted specifically for your pup’s urinary health. It helps dissolve struvite stones and prevent the formation of calcium oxalate stones. The meal has been on the market since September 30th, 2011.

This formula utilizes Relative Supersaturation (RSS) methodology to limit the risk of crystal formation, making it a great option for bladder health. Its exclusive S/O index promotes urinary wellness while creating an unfavorable environment for crystal formation. 

Consuming this meal ensures struvite stones do not recur, so you can live blissfully with your pooch. The meal is costly but worth it since you can use it in all dog breeds and stages. It requires vet authorization. 

• First 5 Ingredients: Brewers Rice, Chicken Fat, Corn, Chicken By-Product Meal, Brewers Rice Flour.

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 17% min, Crude Fat 15% min, Crude Fiber 3.7% Max.

• Calorie Content: 333 calories per cup.

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with your pup’s poundage. 

• Key Benefit: It uses RSS methodology to limit the chances of crystal formation. 

• Price: $102.99 per 25.3-lb bag ($4.07-lb).

Purina Veterinary Dry Food( Best cost-effective)

This tasty meal from purina is specifically made to minimize the risk of urinary stone formation. It is crafted by vets, nutritionists, and researchers to ensure the best end product for urinary wellness. The formula has been on the market since April 15th, 2016. ‘

This therapeutic formula uses high-quality ingredients and contains high antioxidants to support the immune system and reduce the risk of inflammation. Consuming it dissolves existing struvite stones and prevents the recurrence of calcium oxalate and struvite stones. 

Dogs with bladder stones may lack appetite, and this tasty meal convinces them to take a bite. This recipe is a bit pricey but worth it. It also requires vet authorization.

• First 5 Ingredients: Whole Grain Corn, Brewers Rice, Chicken By-Product Meal, Corn Gluten Meal, Animal Fat.

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 21% min, Crude Fat 9% min, Crude Fiber 6.5% Max.

• Calorie Content: 408 kcal/cup.

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s weight.

• Key Benefit: Consuming it dissolves existing struvite stones and minimizes the risk of recurrence. 

• Price: $89.99 per 25-lb bag ($3.59-lb).

Blue Buffalo Wet Food ( Best Canned Formula)

Hydration is key in pups with bladder stones. Water dilutes your pup’s urine, thus reducing the chances of minerals clumping together to form bladder stones. This meal from The Blue Buffalo Company has a high moisture content making it a superb selection for bladder stones. It’s been on the market since December 2nd, 2011. 

It uses natural ingredients while supporting pups with sensitivities. Turkey is the only protein source, and the meal excludes chicken and beef. The inclusion of healthy carbs ensures your pooch stays active all day.

This formula is delicious to tempt your sick dog to take a bite, and there are no chicken by-products, eggs, dairy, wheat, soy, corn, or artificial additives. You can serve it as a standalone meal or mix it with dry meals. 

• First 5 Ingredients: Turkey, Turkey Broth, Potatoes, Flaxseed, Pea Protein, Fish Oil. 

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 7% min, Crude Fat 7% min, Crude Fiber 1.5% Max.

• Calorie Content: 484 kcal/can.

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s weight.

• Key Benefit: High moisture content neutralizes your dog’s urine and increases the chances of urination, thus minimizing the risk of stone formation. 

• Price: $39.36 per 12.5-oz can.

Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet W+U Weight Management + Urinary Care Dry Food 

This recipe from the Blue Buffalo Company is crafted specifically for weight management and urinary care. It contains controlled fat and calorie amounts so your pup can have a healthy weight and bladder. The meal has been on the market since May 11th, 2016.

The formula has increased fiber levels and controlled levels of sodium and magnesium. This makes dogs feel full fast and for longer and support urinary wellness. When your pup feels full for a long, it consumes less food, thus maintaining a healthy weight. 

This grain-free recipe uses tasty ingredients to provide balanced nutrition while tantalizing your sick dog’s taste buds. Taurine, L-carnitine, and omegas boost heart, coat, and skin health. This recipe needs authorization from the vet. 

• First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Pea Starch, Peas, Pea Protein.

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 30% min, Crude Fat 10% min, Crude Fiber 17% Max.

• Calorie Content: 309 kcal/cup.

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on whether this meal is for weight loss or maintenance. 

• Key Benefit: Controlled magnesium and sodium levels make it best for bladder stones. 

• Price: $89.98 per 22-lb bag ($4.09-lb).

Nom Nom Fresh Pet Food Delivery ( Best Fresh formula)

Nom Nom uses whole and natural ingredients to provide a balanced meal and support bladder wellness. Its increased moisture content helps neutralize your pup’s urine, lowering the chances of stone formation. The meals are customized according to your dog’s unique news, and delivery is straight to your doorstep.

You only give information about your dog’s breed, age, size, and diet requirements, and the meals are then prepared to meet your fido’s unique needs. The meals are fresh with no artificial additives. You can choose from four protein sources.

We reviewed the turkey fare. It is prepared in low heat for maximum retention of essential nutrients. It starts with ground turkey and brown rice for muscle and digestion. 

• First 5 Ingredients: Turkey, Brown Rice, Eggs, Carrots, and Spinach. 

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 10% min, Crude Fat 5% min, Crude Fiber 1% Max.

• Calorie Content: 201 kcal/cup.

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with your dog’s unique needs. 

• Key Benefit: uses fresh ingredients and has high moisture levels to support bladder wellness. 

• Price: Vary with your dog’s requirements. 

Hills Diet Urinary Tract Dry Food

Hill’s prescription diet formula is crafted with reduced magnesium, phosphorus, and protein levels. This prevents crystal formations making this meal an excellent choice for bladder health. The recipe has been on the market since May 12th, 2011.

It is crafted with the collaboration of nutritionists and veterinarians to minimize the risk of calcium oxalate and struvite stone formation. Its calcium content is also sufficient to prevent calcium oxalates. 

It is rich in potassium citrate, which is important for bladder wellness. The increased levels of antioxidants and omegas boost immunity and skin wellness. The meal is a bit costly and requires a vet’s authorization. 

• First 5 Ingredients: Whole Grain Corn, Brewers Rice, Chicken Meal, Chicken Fat, Corn Gluten Meal.

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 18% min, Crude Fat 13% min, Crude Fiber 5% Max.

• Calorie Content: 375 kcal/cup.

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s weight.

• Key Benefit: It contains reduced phosphorus, magnesium, and proteins to offer maximum support to the bladder.

• Price: $107.99 per 27.5-lb bag ($3.93-lb).

Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet KS Kidney Support Dry Food

This meal from the Blue Buffalo Company features real chicken as the top ingredient and has controlled protein levels making it best for bladder health. It is crafted to support kidney wellness and minimize the risk of stone formation. The initial manufacturing date is September 29th, 2016.

Peas are the fourth on the list and contribute to the protein content. The inclusion of dried egg products ensures reduced workload on the kidney while keeping the protein content sufficient. This meal keeps calcium oxalate’s relative supersaturation at a minimum, thus lowering the chances of crystal formation. 

Additionally, this recipe keeps your pup’s urine slightly acidic and alkaline to lower the formation of other stones, including struvites. There are no fillers or artificial additives.

• First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Potato Starch, Pea Starch, Peas, Potatoes. 

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 14% min, Crude Fat 18% min, Crude Fiber 7% Max.

• Calorie Content: 404 kcal/cup.

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on whether the meal is for weight maintenance or reduction. 

• Key Benefit: Crafted with controlled protein levels for a healthy kidney and bladder. 

• Price: $94.98 per 22-lb bag ($4.32-lb).

Hill’s Prescription Diet c/d Multicare Urinary Care Chicken & Vegetable Stew

With the top ingredient being water, Hill’s Multicare formula from Hill’s Prescription Diet is the best for bladder stones. The high water content forces dogs to urinate frequently, thus ensuring there is no crystal formation. This meal has been on the market since January 12th, 2015.

This vet-recommended meal is crafted to control struvite and calcium oxalate stones and minimize the risk of recurrence. Its controlled magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus levels make it the best for bladder stones.

Omega, potassium citrate, and increased antioxidants support the skin, coat, bladder, and immune wellness. Low sodium and controlled fat levels ensure your dog’s weight is healthy. It requires vet authorization and can be a bit expensive. 

• First 5 Ingredients: Water, Chicken, Pork Liver, Carrots, Rice. 

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 3.2% min, Crude Fat 1.6% min, Crude Fiber 1.5% Max.

• Calorie Content: 266 kcal/12.5-oz can. 

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s weight.

• Key Benefit: High water content dilutes the urine and promotes frequent urination, thus limiting the risk of crystal formation. 

• Price: $52.99 per 12.5-oz can, case of 12 ($4.24-oz).

Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets UR Urinary Ox/St Dry Food 

This therapeutic formula from Purina results from the collaboration between nutritionists, veterinarians, and researchers to ensure your dog gets the best. It is specifically formulated to support urinary wellness. The meal has been on the market since April 15th, 2016.

Consuming it lowers the chances of urinary stone formation in pups. It uses high-quality ingredients for a tasty meal that your fido won’t resist. The inclusion of antioxidants keeps off infections while maintaining a healthy oxidative balance. 

It dissolves struvite stones that already exist and prevents the recurrence of struvite and calcium oxalate stones. It has no peas. However, it includes grains and may not be the correct meal for pups with grain allergies. You need permission from the vet. 

• First 5 Ingredients: Whole Grain Corn, Brewers Rice, Chicken By-Product Meal, Corn Gluten Meal, Animal Fat.

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 21% min, Crude Fat 9% min, Crude Fiber 6.5% Max.

• Calorie Content: 408 kcal/cup.

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your pup’s weight.

• Key Benefit: Dissolves struvite stones and ensures no recurrence of struvite and calcium oxalate stones. 

• Price: $89.99 per 25-lb bag ($3.60-lb).

Grandma Lucy’s PUREformance Dog Food

This freeze-dried meal by Philips Feeds & Supply is perfect for your dog’s bladder and overall wellness. Its low amounts of phosphorus and magnesium make it the best for bladder stones.  The meal requires less preparation since you only add warm water and your pup’s favorite protein. It has been on the market since March 17th, 2013.

The recipe uses high-quality ingredients, including flax, carrots, pumpkin, cranberries, and blueberries, providing vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants for your dog’s digestive, immune, and overall well-being. 

High omega levels are good for your fido’s coat, joint, and skin care while excluding preservatives and grains, making it great for dogs with sensitivities. It has been pre-mixed, thus limiting the risk of wasting time. Some dogs may, however, not like its mushy texture. It is also a bit costly. 

• First 5 Ingredients: USDA Chickpeas, Flax, Carrots, Celery, Apples.

• Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 21% min, Crude Fat 9% min, Crude Fiber 6.5% Max.

• Calorie Content: 415 kcal/cup.

• Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.

• Feeding: Add 1-2 cups of warm water to each cup of this meal.

• Key Benefit: Uses high-quality ingredients, including apples, carrots, pumpkin, and blueberries, for digestive, immense, and overall wellness. 

• Price: $61.89 per 8-lb bag ($7.74-lb).

What Facts Should You Know About Dog Foods for Bladder Stones?

There are two primary goals to consider when selecting a dog bladder stones diet. The first step is to dilute the urine by increasing moisture intake. Diluting the urine aids in the prevention of stone formation.

The other goal is to limit the consumption of compounds that contribute to bladder stones. To select the best dog food for bladder stones, your veterinarian may have to perform tests to determine the type of stone, so you know what foods to avoid. 

The vet may tell you to go for a therapeutic meal according to the specific type of stone. Here are other important facts on the best dog food for bladder stones.

Natural ingredients

Artificial ingredients cause havoc in your dog’s system. Going for natural ingredients ensures your dog utilizes all the nutrients and no substances accumulate in the bladder. Such accumulations cause stone formation. 

Increased moisture content

Water dilutes your dog’s urine and hence prevents crystal formation. In addition, increased water intake makes your dog frequently urinate, thus flushing out substances that can accumulate in the bladder. Go for canned recipes. However, if you serve dry meals, ensure your pup can access fresh and clean water. 

Moderate protein content

High protein values contribute to the formation of calcium oxalate and urate stones. Go for high-quality protein sources. Avoid organ meat and seafood in dogs with cysteine and urate stones.

Balanced nutrition

Go for meals that provide complete and balanced nutrition for your dog. Such meals should include sufficient minerals, vitamins, proteins, fat, fiber, and omegas. 

What Are the Best Dog Foods for Bladder Stones According to Dog Sizes?

Which Is the Best Dog Food for Small pups with Bladder Stones

• FirstMate Grain-Free Limited Ingredient Small Bites Australian Lamb Dry Food is specifically crafted for extra small and small dogs. It uses fewer ingredients to ensure minimal build-up of substances that can form bladder stones. It has no gluten, peas, or grains making it great for digestive wellness. Digestive and bladder health are connected. 

Best Dog Food for Medium-Sized Dogs

• Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Canned Food has sufficient water to neutralize your dog’s urine and prevent mineralization. The restricted protein and phosphorus levels make it an excellent selection for bladder stones. Its high palatability forces your sick dog to take a bite. But it needs vet authorization and is a bit expensive. 

Best Dog Food for Large pups with Bladder Stones

• Addiction Zen Grain-Free Vegetarian Dry Food is a therapeutic vegetarian formula for bladder stones and dogs with gluten insensitivities. It is packed with antioxidants and isoflavones to boost immunity and prevent inflammation. It excludes protein from meat, poultry, or seafood hence great for urate and cystine stones. 

What Are the Best Dog Foods for Bladder Stones With Different Ingredients?

Which Is the Best Chicken-Free Dog Food for Bladder Stones

• Natural Balance Grain-Free Limited Ingredient Bison & Sweet Potato Dry Food is a bladder-friendly meal that excludes minerals that encourage stone formation. It starts with bison and includes sweet potatoes for strong muscles and better digestion. It also utilizes fewer ingredients to reduce the probability of sensitivities and allergies. 

The Best Dog Food for Bladder Stones with Organic Ingredients

• Dr. Harvey’s Miracle Canine Dog Food uses whole organic ingredients free from corn, soy, fillers, and by-products. It also excludes dairy, meat, and common ingredients that cause struvite, calcium oxalate, and urate stones. Freeze-drying provides taste and retains nutrients. 

Best Dog Food for Bladder Stones with Human-Grade Ingredients

• The Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Whole Grain Dry Food uses 100% human-grade ingredients for balanced nutrition and your fido’s overall wellness. The ingredients include free-range chicken, carrots, and bananas for muscle, digestive, and immune wellness. It has no fillers or artificial preservatives. Taurine is also included to promote cardiac care. 

Best Dog Foods for Different Health Conditions Similar to Bladder Stones?

Which Is the Best Dog Food for Pancreatitis

• Nutro Healthy Weight Natural Choice Lamb & Brown, Rice Dry Food has a minimum fat content of 7% to limit the risk of overworking the pancreas. It features real lamb as the primary ingredient and includes brown rice for healthy muscles and a happy digestive system. It has no GMOs, chicken by-product meals, or fillers. 

Read our article on Best Dog Foods for Pancreatitis: Low-Fat Dry Dog Foods for Pancreatitis Problems.

Best Dog Food for Dogs with Diabetes

• Acana Grain-Free Appalachian Ranch Dry Food has a high protein content for strong muscles and includes premium superfoods for antioxidants. Antioxidants prevent inflammation and infections. The freeze-dried pork, beef, and lamb give this formula a delicious flavor to tempt your sick dog to eat. 

Read our article What Are the Best Dog Foods for Diabetic Dogs

Best Dog Food for Allergies

• Wellness Grain-Free Simple Turkey & Potato Limited Ingredient Formula has a short ingredient list to limit the chances of allergies and negative reactions. Additionally, the recipe uses a single source of protein and highly digestible carbs. This reduces the probability of tummy issues and intolerances. It has glucosamine, antioxidants, probiotics, and taurine for the immune, heart, joints, and overall wellness. 

Read our article 10 Best Dog Food for Frenchies with Allergies: What to Choose.

Nutritional Needs of Pups with Bladder Stones

Dogs with bladder stones have unique nutritional needs. Fulfilling such requirements lowers the risk of recurrence and boosts overall well-being. 

Proteins

Proteins are broken down into amino acids, the building blocks of strong muscles. High-protein food ensures your dog stays strong and healthy. However, dogs with bladder stones need moderate protein content. This is because increased proteins may trigger the formation of calcium oxalate and urate stones. High-quality plant-based proteins are preferable. Some meat or organ proteins may escalate the problem. 

The protein you select, however, depends on the type of stones. For example, struvite stones require acidic foods like organic chicken, cottage cheese, and eggs. On the other hand, calcium oxalate stones require low oxalate foods like turkey and eggs. Urate stones need low to moderate purine foods. 

Fat

Gives your dog smooth skin and a  bright coat. They also add flavor to the food and thus encourage sick dogs to eat. Dogs with bladder stones need low or moderate fat content.

Vitamins and minerals

These are essential for your dog’s overall well-being. Vitamins A, C, and E promote skin and immune health. Fidos with bladder stones need restricted amounts of minerals like magnesium and phosphorus. 

Other essential nutrients

Antioxidants support immunity and encourage a healthy oxidative environment. Pooches with bladder stones need superfoods like cranberries and blueberries, which are superb sources of antioxidants. Omegas also boost skin and coat wellness. 

Healthy supplements

Joint and bone health are important for dogs with urate stones. Supplements like chondroitin and glucosamine boost joint and hip health. 

Main Health Concerns for Pups with Bladder Stones

Pups with bladder stones are exposed to other health complications. Below are the main health issues arising from canine bladder stones.

Urinary tract infections

Fidos with bladder stones may develop urinary tract infections due to bacteria in the urine. The bacteria move up from the urethra to the bladder. Common symptoms to look out for include frequent urination, straining to urinate, and whining while urinating. The whining results from the pain your dog feels while urinating. 

Urinary obstructions or blockages

Bladder stones, urethral stones, and cancer are the most common causes of urinary obstructions in male and female dogs. Furthermore, prostate gland disease can cause urinary obstruction in males.  In addition, spinal cord injuries can cause a dog to lose the ability to urinate.

Stones may pass to the urethra and get lodged, thus causing an obstruction. Failure to relieve the obstruction may lead to bladder rupturing. Lethargy, bloody urine, vomiting, crying when urinating, and struggling to urinate with no urine coming out are the main symptoms to watch out for. 

Liver and kidney problems

Bladder stones also predispose your dog to liver issues. The liver aids in digestion and flushing out toxins. Common signs to watch out for include weight loss, increased thirst, and unstable walking. Kidney problems are also common in dogs with bladder stones. They are characterized by depression, weakness, and increased urine volumes in the bladder. 

What Can Your Dog Eat to Avoid Bladder Stones? 

Your dog can consume moderate protein foods. Organ meat triggers bladder stone formation. Additionally, pups with bladder stones should consume meals with restricted amounts of sodium and magnesium. 

Look for foods rich in antioxidants as they prevent further infections. Digestive and bladder health are connected, so foods with high-quality fiber and water content are great. 

What are the best ingredients for dogs with bladder stones?

Here are the best ingredients for pups with bladder stones:

• High moisture: Water encourages your dog to urinate frequently and dilutes the urine.

• Minerals and vitamins: Vitamin B is water-soluble and hence best for dogs with bladder stones.  A balanced calcium intake is also important. Potassium citrate also dissolves oxalate stones. 

Is it possible to treat bladder stones in dogs at home?

Yes. It is possible to manage bladder stones at home. Here’s a recipe at home:

Chicken Dinner with Dessert

Ingredients

• 5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
• 3 tablespoons sea salt.
• 1 ¾ cups of rice.
• 2 ½ cups of frozen steamed peas. 
• 1 can of pure pumpkin.
• ½ banana (dessert).

Procedure

• Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
• Bake the chicken for 30 minutes and cut it into smaller pieces.
• Follow the package instructions and cook the rice.
• Mix all the ingredients. Let them cool before chopping them in a food processor.
• Serve with ½ banana. 

What can I give my dog to dissolve bladder stones?

Give your dog a therapeutic diet to dissolve bladder stones. Therapeutic diets have controlled amounts of protein, magnesium, and phosphorus. This helps create less concentrated urine. Increased water intake is also key. As the stones dissolve, bacteria may become lodged; hence, antibiotic therapy comes in handy. 

Can certain dog food cause urinary problems?

Yes. Dog foods with increased levels of certain minerals like magnesium and phosphorus expose your dog to urinary problems. The food increases the probability of crystal formation, leading to bladder stones. 

Our Verdict

Understanding the relationship between diet and bladder stone prevention and management will assist you in making an informed decision on the best food for your pet. Diet has a pivotal role in helping your pup with bladder stones.

Our best overall meal Royal Canin Urinary Dry Food is crafted to prevent the formation of calcium oxalate stones while dissolving struvite stones. For a cost-friendly option, Purina Veterinary Dry Dog Food is a good start, a therapeutic formula that prevents crystal formation and dissolves existing stones. Nevertheless, our top ten list guides you to purchasing the correct meal for your dog. 

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