Crystals then build upon each other to form a base, or nidus, on which more cyrstals are deposited. Eventually, a stone is formed. Certain dog breeds are more prone than others to develop uroliths. This suggests there may also be inherited factors involved. High risk breeds include miniature Schnauzers, Poodles, Dalmatians, Dachshunds, Yorkshire Terriers and others.
Many dogs have blood in their urine or experience painful urination.
Uroliths can cause serious problems, especially if they prevent urination and cause the urinary bladder to rupture. The type of stone determines the best course of therapy. Certain stones, like sturvites and urate uroliths, can be dissolved with a change of diet that alters the urine pH and decreases protein and mineral intake. Other stones, like calcium oxalate uroliths, may require surgery for their removal. Regardless of the type of stone, most dogs are given antibitotics to eliminate any potential infections of the urinary tract.