🧪 Vet Guide 2025: Uric Acid Stones in Dogs – Causes, Dissolution & Prevention 🐶💧

By Dr Duncan Houston, BVSc

🔍 What Are Uric Acid Stones?

Uric acid stones (urate uroliths) are mineral deposits that form in the urinary tract due to a defect in how the body processes purines. These stones are most common in Dalmatians but can also affect English Bulldogs, and dogs with liver shunts. 🧬

🧬 The Biochemistry Behind It

Normally, purines are broken down into uric acid, which is then converted into a water-soluble compound called allantoin and excreted. In Dalmatians, this final step doesn't occur properly. Uric acid builds up and precipitates into stones—especially in acidic or concentrated urine. 💥

🐶 Who’s at Risk?

• 🎯 Dalmatians (genetic defect)
• 🐾 English Bulldogs
• 🧪 Dogs with congenital liver shunts

Genetic Testing

A DNA test is available for the mutation found in non-Dalmatians. All Dalmatians carry the gene, so testing is redundant for them.

📋 Symptoms to Watch For

• 🚽 Straining to urinate
• 🩸 Blood in urine
• 🔁 Frequent urination in small amounts
• 🌫️ Gritty or sandy particles in the urine

In male dogs, obstruction at the os penis is a medical emergency. Seek urgent veterinary care for any signs of blocked urination. 🚨

🧪 Diagnosing Uric Acid Stones

• 🧫 Urinalysis (uric acid crystals are normal in Dalmatians)
• 📸 Imaging – contrast radiography or ultrasound may be needed
• 🔬 Stone analysis is critical after removal

🛠️ Treatment Options

1. 🔪 Surgery

• ✅ Fastest method to remove stones
• 📦 Stones are sent for lab analysis
• ⚠️ May leave small fragments embedded in bladder wall
• 💰 Relatively expensive and involves anesthesia

2. 💊 Dissolution Protocol

The goal is to dissolve the stones safely in the bladder by changing urine chemistry:

• 🦠 Control infection (urine culture + antibiotics if needed)
• 🥫 Prescription low-purine diet (preferably canned)
• 💊 Allopurinol – reduces uric acid production
• 🧪 Urinalysis monthly to monitor pH, crystals, and stone size

⏳ Downsides of Dissolution

• 📆 Takes 3–4 months on average
• ⚠️ Risk of male urethral obstruction as stones shrink
• 💰 Long-term monitoring costs can add up

⚠️ Allopurinol Cautions

Allopurinol works by blocking uric acid formation but may lead to xanthine stone formation if the pet cheats on their diet. Always use this medication under veterinary supervision and with a strict low-purine diet. 🚫🍖

🥣 Preventing Stone Recurrence

Recommended Diet

• 🐟 Low-purine, low-sodium prescription food
• 💧 Canned versions promote hydration
• ⚠️ Avoid Vitamin C – it acidifies urine

Allowed Treats

• 🥚 Eggs
• 🧀 Cheese
• 🥛 Milk
• 🍞 Whole-grain cereals (no yeast)
• 🍎 Fruits

📅 Monitoring Protocol

• 📆 Urinalysis 1 month after prevention starts, then every 3–6 months
• 🖥️ Imaging every 6 months to detect new stones early

Optional Tests

• 🧪 24-hour uric acid production test (difficult in practice)
• 🧮 Uric acid-to-creatinine ratio (not very reliable)
• 🩸 Low BUN (<10 mg/dL) indicates no dietary cheating

⛔ What to Avoid

• 🍞 Brewer's yeast (high in purines)
• 💊 Vitamin C or supplements that acidify urine
• 🥩 High-protein treats or people food

🩺 Final Thoughts from Dr Duncan Houston

Uric acid stones can be painful, recurrent, and even life-threatening—but they are also very manageable with the right approach. For Dalmatians and other at-risk dogs, proper diet, hydration, and medication can prevent surgery and emergency visits. If you're dealing with urate stones, work closely with your vet to customize a prevention plan. 🐾🧬

📲 Worried About Stones? Ask A Vet Now

If you suspect your dog may have bladder stones or need help managing urate urolithiasis, download the Ask A Vet app. Chat live with Dr Duncan Houston or another licensed vet to get tailored help with testing, diet, and prevention 🐶💬