What Are the Best Dog Foods for Urinary Health-(2023)

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Here is our review of the best dog foods for urinary health.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes. Please consult your vet for more urinary-health issues-related information.

Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. However, this does not impact our reviews

Urinary tract problems, such as infections of the prostate, bladder, or urethra, are common in dogs. Dogs, on the other hand, are excellent at concealing pain. So, how can you tell if your dog has a problem?

The most common symptoms to look out for are inability to control urine, bloody urine, and lethargy. Urinary issues can also indicate chronic health issues such as cancer and bladder stones.

This makes it critical to understand the warning signs so that you can detect and treat the problem before it progresses to chronic stages.

Treatment depends on the cause of the problem. Diet is also beneficial. Choosing the right food for your sick dog is critical because it reduces the negative effects on your dog’s overall health. The pet food industry is flooded with options, making it difficult to choose the best food for your dog.

We make it easier by providing you with the top ten recipes. Furthermore, our guide to the best dog food for dogs with urinary issues ensures that you have them at your fingertips for easy selection.

However, you cannot assist your dog unless well-versed in canine urinary problems. Continue reading for a more in-depth explanation.

Types of Urinary Health Problems in Dogs

various urinary problems can affect dogs. Here are the key ones:

Urinary Incontinence

This is common in spayed females. The problem is mainly caused by hormonal deficiencies that result in loss of control of the urethral sphincter muscles. This causes urine to leak out of the bladder. Neurological or structural problems are also to blame. 

Mild incontinence causes small amounts of urine to leak, mostly when your dog sleeps. Chronic incontinence leads to continuous urine leakage and may cause urine scalds that develop into urinary tract infections. 

Prostatic Disease

This affects the prostate gland and is common in male dogs. Neutered males are predisposed to prostate cancer, while their intact counterparts are at an increased risk of developing prostate infections. Straining to pass stool or urine and blood in the urine are early warning signs. 

Urinary Tract Infections

These infections can affect any dog. However, they are most common in female dogs. The major cause of urinary tract infections is bacteria. Dogs with Cushing’s disease and kidney problems are at a higher risk of urinary tract infections.

Diabetes Mellitus

These result from insufficient insulin production by the pancreas or poor response of the body cells to insulin. Frequent urination and thirst are the main symptoms of diabetes mellitus. 

Causes of Urinary Problems in Dogs

Causes may vary with the type of urinary problem. But here are the major causes:

  • Stress.
  • Bladder infections.
  • Bladder stones.
  • Cancer.
  • Trauma.
  • Congenital abnormality.
  • Prostate problem.
  • Spinal cord disease.

What are the symptoms to watch out for?

Like the causes, symptoms of urinary problems vary with the type of the problem. Common signs to look out for include the following:

  • Frequent accidents in the house.
  • Straining to urinate.
  • Bloody urine.
  • Licking around the urinary tract opening.
  • Strong urine odor.
  • Increased urination.
  • Vomiting.
  • Lethargy.
  • Fever.
  • Increased thirst.
  • Severe back pain.
  • Weight loss.

These symptoms necessitate a visit to the vet. Early intervention ensures the problem does not progress to the chronic stage. 

What is the Diagnosis?

Urinary problems call for a visit to the vet, who will thoroughly examine your dog after you give the symptoms. Listed below are the common diagnostic tests:

  • Urinalysis.
  • Blood tests.
  • Catheter placement.
  • Cystoscopy, radiographs, ultrasounds, 
  • Biopsy. 

How are Urinary Problems in Dogs Treated?

A positive diagnosis calls for proper treatment. The vet will recommend the best treatment based on the underlying cause of the problem. It is also treated if your dog has a disease that exposes it to the condition. The following are the key treatment options:

  • Dietary adjustments.
  • Intravenous or subcutaneous fluid.
  • Urinary alkalinizers or acidifiers.
  • Antibiotics.
  • Increased water intake.
  • Removal of bladder stones through surgery.
  • Surgery to correct the congenital abnormality. 
  • Pain relievers.

Antibiotics are the major treatment options to ensure your dog finishes the full dose even when the symptoms are no longer there. This minimizes the risk of recurrence. 

The vet will perform another urine test to determine whether the problem is still there. The vet would test for other probable underlying issues if antibiotics didn’t work. 

Dog breeds are susceptible to urinary problems.

Although dogs can get urinary problems, some are at a higher risk. The problem is prevalent in older dogs seven years and above. Bichon Frises, Yorkshire Terriers, and Shi Tzus are susceptible to urinary tract stones. 

Male Irish Setters, Bull Mastiffs, Bulldogs, Fox Terriers, German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, English Springer Spaniels, and Boxers are prone to urinary incontinence. Bladder cancer is common in Beagles, Scottish Terriers, Wire Fox Terriers, American Eskimo Dogs, and West Highland White Terriers. 

Understanding the breeds exposed to urinary problems helps you select the correct diet to minimize the negative effects on your dog’s body.

What Are the Properties of the Best Dog Food for Urinary Problems

Here are the qualities to look out for when purchasing food for dogs with urinary issues:

Reduced protein, magnesium, and phosphorus content: High protein, magnesium, and phosphorus intake have been linked to bladder stones. These nutrients promote the formation of struvite crystals, which cause urinary issues. Be careful not to restrict these nutrients too much, as this can lead to other issues with your dog’s health. In addition, give calcium and sodium sparingly. 

Foods with higher PH levels are best for dogs with oxalate stones problems. Canned formulas are a perfect choice. You can mix wet and dry food. Opt for a minimum of 10% moisture content if serving dry formulas. Always ensure your dog can access fresh, clean water.

Wholesome ingredients: Foods with superfoods like cranberries and blueberries are great. Cranberries are natural diuretics, while blueberries are antioxidant-dense to boost immunity. Ingredients rich in vitamins C and E also come in handy to protect your sick dog against further infections. Avoid artificial additives, as they can worsen the problem. B12 vitamins, omega fatty acids, probiotics, and prebiotics are also superb nutrients for urinary health in dogs. 

These properties guide you to select the right diet for canine urinary health comfortably. Finding the correct brands that meet the above specifications can be tricky, but we make it easier by giving you the top 5 brands for the best urinary health diet.

What Are the Top 5 Brands for the Best Dog Food for Urinary Health?

Every brand claims to be the best for your dog’s health. Such promises could be marketing ploys designed to entice pet parents to buy their foods. Understanding which brands have the best formulas is essential.

A poor diet can lead to allergies, digestive issues, and unhealthy weight gain. It may also aggravate your dog’s condition. Here are the top five brands:

Prices vary by brand, but the average price per pound and ounce for our top formulas is $3.25 for dry formulas and $3.15 for canned options. Prices range between $25.74 and $102.99. The food to choose is also determined by your dog’s life stage and size. The following is a list of the best foods for urinary health:

Please note that these prices are as of 3rd December 2022. 

Blue Buffalo Weight Management + Urinary Care Natural Veterinary Diet Canned Food 

This meal by the Blue Buffalo Company Ltd. is formulated with your dog’s urinary health in mind. The controlled levels of minerals like sodium and magnesium make it an excellent selection for urinary issues. This formula has been on the market since May 11th, 2016.

It is also perfect for weight management. A healthy weight means overall wellness. Dogs with urinary problems are constantly thirsty, and chicken broth is handy to provide hydration. Increased antioxidants boost immunity while preventing oxidative damage that causes bladder cancer. 

Chicken tops the ingredient list for amino acids that promote muscle wellness.  There are no chemicals or preservatives, so you can serve it confidently. This formula requires vet authorization. 

  • First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Broth, Water, Whitefish, Chicken Liver, and Carrots.
  • Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 7.5% min, Crude Fat 2.5% min, Crude Fiber 5% Max.
  • Calorie Content: 312 kcal/can.
  • Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
  • Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on weight.
  • Key Benefit: Controlled levels of sodium and magnesium promote urinary health. 
  • Price: $47.76 per 12.5-oz can, case of 12 ($3.82-oz).
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Canidae All Life Stages Multi-Protein Dry Food 

Canidae Corporation is known for high-quality formulas, and this recipe is no exception. It uses chicken, turkey, lamb, and fish meals for sufficient protein content to keep your dog muscular. The initial production date is July 25th, 2008. 

Canidae’s Health Plus antioxidants, probiotics, and fatty acids blend to promote immunity, prevent oxidative damage, boost digestion, and ensure your dog has a smooth coat and soft skin. It is highly palatable to tempt your sick dog to have a bite and soon lick its bowl clean. 

The meal does not contain wheat, soy, or corn, making it safe for your sick pup. Furthermore, it does not require a vet’s prescription. However, it may not be the best selection for dogs with grain allergies. 

  • First 5 Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Brown Rice, Peas, Oatmeal.
  • Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 24% min, Crude Fat 10% min, Crude Fiber 4.5% Max.
  • Calorie Content: 506 kcal/cup.
  • Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
  • Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s life stage, health condition, and weight. 
  • Key Benefit: Increase levels of omegas for coat and skin health. 
  • Price: $62.99 per 30-lb bag ($2.09-lb).
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Firstmate Food Australian Lamb Dry Food

This hypoallergenic meal from FirstMate is perfect for urinary health. It uses a single novel protein to minimize the risk of allergies. The combination of blueberries, cranberries, and raspberries provides high-quality antioxidants. Cranberries are urinary-friendly ingredients since they prevent bacteria from settling in the bladder. This recipe has been on the market since January 12th, 2009. 

There are no gluten, grains, or artificial preservatives to cause digestive issues in your dog. The 78% protein and 22% vegetable content promote muscle and digestive health. It is simple to obtain because no prescription is required.

Using a single protein source ensures the meal has a moderate protein content that suits the urinary tract. This meal is appropriate for all life stages and contains enough dietary fiber to maintain a healthy weight and digestive system. It also contains glucosamine, which aids in joint and hip function.

  • First 5 Ingredients: Lamb Meal, Burbank Potato, Norkotah Potato, Chicken Fat, Tomato Pomace. 
  • Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 24% min, Crude Fat 13% min, Crude Fiber 7.5% Max.
  • Calorie Content: 505 kcal/cup.
  • Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
  • Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with weight. 
  • Key Benefit: It includes cranberries which are perfect for urinary health. 
  • Price: $89.99 per 28.6-lb bag ($3.15-lb).
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Wellness Grain Free Core Protein-Rich Nutrition For Puppies Deboned Chicken Dry Food 

A proper foundation prevents urinary problems during the senior stage, and the formula from Wellpet LLC is the perfect way to start off your dog. This meal is best for dogs that are susceptible to urinary problems. It acts as a preventive measure. This recipe has been on the market since March 17th, 2012. 

Consuming it minimizes the risk of stone formation as it has controlled amounts of phosphorus and calcium. It is rich in antioxidants and probiotics to prevent bladder inflammation and boost digestion. High omegas, glucosamine, and taurine promote brain wellness and proper joint functioning and boost heart health. 

It comes in a small kibble so your puppy can easily chew it with minimal choking risks and blockage. 

  • First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Lentils, Peas.
  • Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 36% min, Crude Fat 18% min, Crude Fiber 5% Max.
  • Calorie Content: 491 kcal/cup.
  • Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
  • Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s age and weight.
  • Key Benefit: Controlled calcium and phosphorus levels reduce the risk of stone formation. 
  • Price: $79.99 per 26-lb bag ($3.08-lb).
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Nulo Adult Trim Weight Management Dry Food – Grain Free

This meal from Nulo Pet Food Inc. is crafted to support a healthy weight. Obese and senior dogs are at a higher risk of health problems, including urinary issues, and this recipe minimizes such risks. It includes L-carnitine to break down excess fats and convert them into useful energy. The initial manufacturing date is September 2nd, 2015. 

This low-fat and grain-free meal has no chicken or egg proteins making it the best food for pups with chicken intolerance. It uses low glycemic ingredients and pure probiotic strain to support smooth digestion. 

The increased fiber levels further boost digestion while omega fatty acids and vitamins C and E give your dog a shiny coat, soft skin, and better immunity. Serve it according to your dog’s weight. 

  • First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Cod, Salmon Meal, Turkey Meal, Yellow Peas, Lentils.
  • Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 30% min, Crude Fat 7% min, Crude Fiber 6% Max.
  • Calorie Content: 368 calories per cup.
  • Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
  • Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with your pup’s weight.
  • Key Benefit: Grain-free and low-fat for minimal risks of allergies and a healthy weight. 
  • Price: $86.99 per 26-lb bag ($3.35-lb).
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Instinct Grain-Free Limited Ingredient Diet Real Turkey Canned Food 

This formula from Nature’s Variety is a superb selection for your dog’s overall wellness, including urinary health. It includes lots of water to keep your dog hydrated while ensuring the urinary tract is healthy. The meal has been on the market since April 30th, 2017. 

The formula’s increased moisture content removes toxins, while its low protein content ensures the kidneys are not overworked. The short ingredient content of only one vegetable and one protein prevent sensitivities and allergies, while the tasty loaf improves palatability to tempt picky eaters. 

The meal excludes chicken, fish, beef, eggs, dairy, grain, potato, wheat, corn, and soy, making it great for pups with intolerances, sensitivities, and allergies. It is made in the US using high-quality ingredients. 

  • First 5 Ingredients: Turkey, Turkey Broth, Turkey Liver, Peas, Pea Protein.
  • Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 12.5% min, Crude Fat 7.5% min, Crude Fiber 2% Max.
  • Calorie Content: 499 kcal/ 13.2-oz can.
  • Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
  • Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s age, weight, and activity levels. 
  • Key Benefit: High water content flushes out toxins from the kidney and other body organs. 
  • Price: $25.74 per 13.2-oz can, case of 6 ($1.95-oz).
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Solid Gold Sensitive Stomach Oatmeal, Barley & Ocean Fish Holistique Blendz Dry Food

Do you want to boost your fido’s digestive and urinary health with one formula? Then this recipe from Solid Gold Pet LLC is the best choice. It has restricted mineral levels and increased fiber and probiotic content for a healthy urinary tract and digestive system. Its initial production date is October 2nd, 2001.

Grains like barley and oatmeal blend with ocean fish meals for proper digestion and healthy muscles. The unique mixture of superfoods boosts immunity while preventing inflammation that causes bladder cancer. Cranberries prevent bacteria from attaching to the bladder walls. 

Other ingredients like pumpkin, carrots, and taurine boost digestive, vision, and heart wellness. DHA, vitamin C, and vitamin E promote cognitive health and immunity. This meal is also not best for pups that cannot tolerate grains. 

  • First 5 Ingredients: Oatmeal, Peas, Pearled Barley, Dried Eggs, Ocean Fish Meal.
  • Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 18% min, Crude Fat 6% min, Crude Fiber 4% Max.
  • Calorie Content: 340 calories per cup.
  • Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
  • Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s life stage, health condition, activity levels, and temperature.. 
  • Key Benefit: Controlled amounts of calcium, sodium, and phosphorus 
  • Price: $65.99 per 24-lb bag ($2.75-lb).
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Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Urinary SO Dry Food

Royal Canin Veterinary Diet recipe is formulated specifically for bladder and urinary tract health. It fosters a healthy environment that stops struvite and calcium oxalate crystals formation. It has been on the market since September 30th, 2011. 

It’s low in protein, thus ensuring the kidney does not overwork. The increased prebiotics flush out bacteria from the bladder. This recipe includes marigold extract, an excellent antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory ingredient to prevent frequent infections while offering a healthy oxidative environment. 

The minimal magnesium content prevents the formation of struvite stones, while the Relative Supersaturation Methodology reduces ion concentrations in urine. Increased ion concentration is harmful to urinary health.  

  • 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 kcal/cup.
  • Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
  • Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on whether the food is for weight maintenance or loss. 
  • Key Benefit: Reduced magnesium content prevents the formation of struvite stones. 
  • Price: $102.99 per 25.3-lb bag ($4.07-lb).
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Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets UR Urinary Ox/St Wet Dog Food

This nutritionist and veterinarian-crafted and approved formula by Nestle Purina Pet perfectly meets your dog’s health and nutritional needs while supporting urinary wellness. The meal begins with a whole grain for minimal protein levels, perfect for urinary health. The meal has been on the market since May 5th, 2015. 

Vitamin E boosts skin, coat, and immune wellness. It is also a powerful antioxidant that prevents bladder inflammation. Its tasty feature forces dogs with a low appetite to consume it. 

The increased water content dilutes your dog’s, thus lowering the risk of urinary stone formation. It is formulated to dissolve existing struvite stones and prevent their future formation. This formula requires vet authorization. 

  • First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Water Sufficient for Processing, Rice, Meat By-Products, Liver.
  • Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 7.5% min, Crude Fat 4.5% min, Crude Fiber 3% Max.
  • Calorie Content: 1041 kcal/kg.
  • Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
  • Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on your dog’s weight. 
  • Key Benefit: It dissolves sterile struvite stones and promotes increased urine production to dilute your dog’s urine. 
  • Price: $48.99 per 13.3-oz can, case of 12 ($3.68-oz).
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Wellness CORE RawRev Grain-Free Healthy Weight Recipe Dry Food

Dogs susceptible to urinary problems will benefit from this recipe from Well Pet Operations. This non-prescription diet offers 100% support for urinary health. It is low in minerals that trigger urinary problems and has increased levels of antioxidants to prevent bladder inflammation. The initial manufacturing date is April 24th, 2018.

It is crafted with high fiber content and reduced fat values to minimize the risk of unhealthy weight gain. Taurine, omegas, probiotics, and glucosamine work together to support heart, coat, skin, digestive, immune, and joint well-being. 

This formula is free from wheat, soy, corn, and other fillers that trigger allergies and sensitivities. Vitamin E prevents inflammation while boosting immunity. The savory raw pieces tempt your sick dog or a picky eater to take a bite. 

  • First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal, Chicken Meal, Lentils, Peas. 
  • Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 35% min, Crude Fat 10% min, Crude Fiber 13% Max.
  • Calorie Content: 367 kcal/cup.
  • Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
  • Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on whether the formula is for weight maintenance or loss. 
  • Key Benefit: Increased levels of antioxidants prevents bladder inflammation. 
  • Price: $76.98 per 18-lb bag ($4.28-lb).
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What Facts Should You Know About Dog Foods for Urinary Health?

Dog food for urinary health should minimize the growth of bladder stones and prevent a recurrence. Here are other facts to know:

Proteins are key for your dog’s muscles. Animal protein is best since it increases palatability. Tasty food comes in handy for dogs with urinary problems. This is because they may have low appetites. However, urinary health calls for moderate protein content. This minimizes the risk of overworking the kidney. 

Certain minerals, including sodium, phosphorus, and magnesium, trigger the growth of struvites, thus encouraging urinary problems. Sometimes, your pup’s kidneys cannot remove these minerals. Go for foods with controlled levels of these minerals. 

Dogs with urinary problems are excessively thirsty, so food with high moisture content is best. Wet or canned recipes have lots of water. However, dry food is also useful, go for a moisture content of approximately 10% and above. You can also mix wet and dry formulas to get the benefits of both worlds. 

Foods rich in vitamins and antioxidants are great for urinary health. They prevent further infections and limit the risks of inflammation that causes bladder cancer. Superfoods, especially cranberries, support the urinary tract and reduce the chances of occurrence and recurrence. Look for foods that include cranberries. You may also buy cranberry powder and add it to your dog food. 

What Are the Best Dog Foods for Urinary Health According to Dog Sizes?

What Is the Best Dog Food for Urinary Health in Small Dogs

  • Freshpet Vital Grain-Free Chicken Recipe Small Breed Fresh Food uses vitamins and antioxidant-dense veggies and fruits to boost immunity and prevent oxidative damage. The formula is free from common fillers, including wheat, soy, corn, and artificial additives. Cranberries ensure bacteria do not attach to the bladder walls. 

The Best Dog Food for Urinary Health In Medium-Sized Dogs

Which Is the Best dog Food for Urinary Health in Large Dogs

  • Merrick Backcountry Grain-Free Large Breed Dry Food features real deboned chicken as the primary ingredient. It is rich in vitamin E for immunity and a healthy oxidative balance. Glucosamine and chondroitin support hip and joint wellness, while taurine ensures the heart is strong. It is freeze-dried raw coated for maximum flavor. 

What Are the Best Dog Foods for Urinary Health With Different Ingredients?

The Best Dog Food with Pumpkin for Urinary Health

Which Is the Best Dog Food with Cranberries for Urinary Health

  • Addiction Homestyle Raw Dog Food starts with real venison for a muscular look. It also includes superfoods like cranberries. Cranberries are high in vitamin C and antioxidants, which promote immunity. They also aid in preventing urinary tract infections by preventing harmful bacteria and fungi from attaching to the urinary tract wall.

The Best Chicken-Free Dog Food for Urinary Health

  • ZiwiPeak Lamb Canned Food is packed with moisture to boost hydration and cleanse your dog’s system. This grain-free formula uses a single protein and has no carbs or fillers, making it an excellent selection for urinary health. Including superfoods like green mussels and kelp boosts mobility and overall well-being. 

Best Dog Foods for Health Conditions Similar to Urinary Health

What Is the Best Dog Food for Diabetes

  • Ketona Natural Chicken Recipe has limited amounts of sugar, starch, and carbohydrates, making it the best dog food for diabetic dogs. Consuming it minimizes the risks of glucose and sugar spikes. It uses natural ingredients and starts with real chicken for healthy muscles and improved taste. The chicken is non-GMO and antibiotic-free. 

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

The Best Dog Food for Pancreatitis

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

Which Is the Best Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs

  • Solid Gold Grain-Free Leaping Waters Sensitive Stomach Dry Food is specifically formulated for sensitive dogs. It uses high-quality ingredients, including cold water salmon, lentils, peas, chickpeas, and chicken fat, for muscle, digestive, skin, and coat wellness. It includes 20 easy-to-digest superfoods for better immunity and gut health.

Read our article on 10 Best Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs

Nutritional Needs of Organic Dog Foods for Urinary Health

Although diet is not the only solution for urinary health, it plays a critical role in curbing the problem and minimizing recurrence risks. 

  • Proteins: Urinary health thrives in a low-protein environment. Increased protein intake may make it hard for the glomerulus to filter them. This leads to protein in your dog’s urine, and proteinuria. 
  • Minerals: Minerals take center stage in your dog’s overall wellness. They support bone and muscle wellness and prevent certain issues, including joint diseases. But urinary health calls for controlled levels of certain minerals. Such minerals include sodium and phosphorus. They encourage the formation of bladder stones. 
  • Water: Hydration is important for urinary health. Taking lots of water ensures the removal of toxins from the body. It also limits the chances of excessive thirst associated with urinary diseases. 
  • Prebiotics and probiotics: They encourage the growth of healthy bacteria while preventing harmful bacteria that cause urinary tract problems. Excellent sources of prebiotics and probiotics include spinach, asparagus, and carrots. 
  • Antioxidants: They promote immunity, thus preventing infections. Antioxidants also prevent inflammation, a major contributing factor to urinary tract issues. 
  • Carbohydrates: Simple carbs and fillers like corn and rice are unhealthy for the urinary tract. Complex carbs, including brown rice and sweet potatoes, are better. 

Main Health Concerns for Dogs with Urinary Health Problems

Urinary health problems expose pups to other health issues. Here are the main health concerns for dogs with urinary health problems:

  • Kidney Failure: Infections and toxins cause acute kidney failure. Chronic kidney failure is gradual, and it is difficult to pinpoint its cause. Initially, dogs with kidney problems urinate frequently, but as the disease progresses, your dog may start urinating less frequently or fail to urinate.
  • Pyometra: This mainly affects intact females. This is a uterine infection that frequently develops during middle or older age. It occurs 1-2 months after the heat cycle. Dogs with pyometra have increased shirts, and urination and pus may drain from the vulva. 
  • Cushing’s Disease: It results from increased levels of cortisol. Frequent urination and huge appetites are common in dogs with this problem. 
  • Bladder Cancer: Various types of cancers can affect your dog’s bladder. But transitional cell carcinoma is the most prevalent. This aggressive cancer is diagnosed using a combination of tests, including urinalysis.
  • Bladder Stones: Although they can develop anywhere, they are mainly found in the bladder. X-rays and ultrasounds help in spotting the stones. These stones contain minerals like struvites, urate, and calcium oxalate. Treatment varies with the type of stone. 

What to look for in choosing dog food for urinary?

Your dog’s diet is important in maintaining urinary health. It is necessary to maintain the pH of their urine, reduce the risk of stones, and prevent urinary tract health issues.

B12 vitamins, Vitamin C, and omega-3 fatty acids are best for urinary health. Prebiotics and probiotics are also beneficial. They minimize inflammation, enhance the immune system, and supplement the urinary tract with live digestive enzymes.

Lower fat and protein diets can also help reduce urine acid levels. This reduces the possibility of unwanted bacteria clogging the bladder or urethra. Dog foods containing real animal proteins, fresh fruits, and vegetables promote urinary health.  High moisture content is important. 

Is wet dog food better for urinary health?

Yes. Canned dog foods have a high moisture content. This flushes out toxins for the body. Dogs with urinary problems are always thirsty, and canned meals keep them hydrated. However, dry meals also come in handy, mixing canned and dry formulas brings out the best food for urinary health.

Is it possible to treat a urinary tract infection for dogs at home?

Yes. You can treat canine UTIs at home. Herbal remedies, including juniper berries and parsley leaf, are best for urinary health. Juniper berries remove impurities in the kidney, while parsley leaf increases urine production, which helps clear the bacteria. Other antioxidants and anti-inflammatory ingredients like cranberries and blueberries also help. 

What can I give my dog for urinary health?

You can give your dog prescription diets. These contain nutrients that boost urinary health. In addition, other dog foods with minimal protein, magnesium, phosphorus, and sodium content are friendly to the urinary tract. You can also add cranberry powder to your pup’s food. Cranberries are natural cleansers. 

Over To You

Urinary problems are common, but your pooch does not have to suffer from urinary problems. Many formulas are available to meet their specific health and nutritional requirements. Blue Buffalo Weight Management + Urinary Care Natural Veterinary Diet Canned Food is our favorite.

It contains high levels of antioxidants which prevent inflammation. The controlled magnesium and sodium levels make it the best for urinary health. It’s also high in moisture, which promotes healthy gut flora and helps to keep the urinary tract clean.

However, all the other formulas on this list protect your dog’s urinary health. The choice is yours. 

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