Bladder stones are mineral deposits that can form anywhere along the urinary tract, but most commonly accumulate in the bladder. While any dog can develop bladders stones, miniature schnauzers are at increased risk.
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Common Stone Types
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According to Paula Steele, D.V.M., the bladder stones most commonly seen in miniature schnauzers are struvite and oxylate stones. Struvite stones are caused by a high alkaline pH in the urine and often follow a urinary tract infection. Oxylate stones form when the urine is very acidic, accompanied by high serum levels of calcium.
Frequency
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Research conducted by the University of California School of Veterinary Medicine showed that female miniature schnauzers evidenced nearly twice the incidence of struvite bladder stones over other breeds at an average age of five years. On the other hand, male miniature schnauzers had a higher incidence rate of oxylate stones than other breeds at an average age of eight years.
Genetic Predisposition
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Research indicates that this breed has a high incidence of liver shunts, rogue veins that bypass the liver and flow directly to the bloodstream. This condition may lead to another type of bladder stone consisting of uric acid.
Other Risk Factors
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Miniature schnauzers may be at higher risk for bladder stones due to experiencing urinary tract infections more often than other breeds.
Treatment
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Since miniature schnauzers have been known to suffer multiple recurrences after surgical intervention, medications and dietary measures to control urine pH is the preferred course of treatment.
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