How to Prevent Struvite Stones in Schnauzers

Struvite stones are a frequently diagnosed condition in all dog breeds, including schnauzers. Miniature schnauzers are genetically predisposed to the formation of both struvite and oxalate stones, according to Pet Place. Struvite stones start as small crystals in the bladder, and if left untreated, can make it difficult for the dog to urinate or may even cause a blockage. If your dog becomes blocked, he'll likely need surgery, which can be expensive and as with all surgical procedures, risky. However, there are several diet and lifestyle changes you can make to help reduce the likelihood of these stones forming.

Things You'll Need

  • Specially prepared diet
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Instructions

    • 1

      Give your dog plenty of water. Water helps flush out a dog's system, washing away the bacteria that can lead to the formation of crystals and stones. Have clean water available at all times, and keep the water bowl in a place that's easily accessible for your dog. If your dog needs extra encouragement to drink, give it flavored broth.

    • 2

      Monitor your dog's urination. Holding in urine can lead to kidney, bladder and urinary tract infections, and may eventually cause crystals and stones to form. If your dog stays inside, let it go out every few hours so it doesn't hold urine too long. You can also train your schnauzer to use a designated spot in the house, such as puppy training pads or fake grass. If you can't make it home, or if the weather is too harsh for your dog to go outside, it can still urinate as frequently as it needs.

    • 3

      Treat urinary infections promptly. According to Shawn Messonnier, DVM, struvite stones most often result from urinary tract infections. Recognizing a urinary tract infection early and immediately seeking treatment can prevent the infection from progressing into something much worse. If your dog strains while urinating, only urinates small amounts at a time, or urinates even a small amount of blood, take it to the vet as soon as possible. Your dog will probably need to be on antibiotics for one to two weeks. Administering all doses of this medication is vital to eliminating the infection.

    • 4

      Feed your dog a homemade diet. According to Dr. Messonnier, dietary therapy can not only treat struvite stones, it can sometimes prevent them. According to Dr. Messonnier, alkaline urine (urine with a high pH) can be a breeding ground for struvite stones. Vegetarian or cereal-based diets are more likely to contribute to alkaline urine than diets with animal-based protein sources, which help keep the urine acidic (low pH). In his book "The Natural Health Bible for Dogs and Cats," Messonnier recommends a homemade diet with cottage cheese, eggs and long grain brown rice.

    • 5

      Purchase a diet designed to prevent stones. Several pet food manufacturers sell prescription diets designed to help treat and prevent bladder stones. Royal Canin, Purina and Hill's all manufacture diets for animals with urinary and bladder trouble. These diets are usually only available from a veterinarian.