Dalmatians are unique as a dog breed. The way they metabolize proteins high in purine cause many Dalmatians to be urinary stone-formers. Owners of Dalmatians need to be sure their dogs are getting a low purine diet, consisting of items such as lamb, rice, poultry and most vegetables. Beef and organ meats should be avoided. Have water readily available and allow your dog frequent trips to urinate. Most stones in Dalmatians are treatable if caught early.
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Bladder Stones
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According to the Dalmatian Club of America, 97 percent of urinary stones in Dalmatians are found in the bladder. Bladder stones, which block the flow of urine, usually occur as the result of another problem. Diets high in cereals and grains are likely to cause alkaline urine, creating a friendly environment for stones to develop. Cranberry juice, either fed directly to your Dalmatian or mixed with his food, can help to acidify the urine and build the immune system. Catheterization is sometimes successful in dislodging the stones, freeing up the urine flow.
Kidney Stones
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Kidney stones are usually the result of an underlying infection. In Dalmatians, they can also occur as the result of a genetic defect such as high uric acid, which crystallizes in the urine. Commercial diets are available that encourage the stones to dissolve. Antibiotics are used to treat any underlying infection.
Urinary Tract Infections
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Urinary tract infections develop in the areas of the body where urine is made and eliminated. These infections occur in the urethra, ureters, bladder, kidneys and prostate gland. Eating contaminated food is a common cause. Female dogs are more prone to urinary tract infections than males due to having a shorter urethra, making it easier for bacteria to enter the bladder. Symptoms include: frequent urge to urinate, difficult urination, abdominal pain, discolored or bloody urine and pain in the penis. Normal treatment consists of a course of antibiotics, which is usually successful unless there is an underlying condition causing the infection. If this is the case, the infection is likely to reoccur.
Enlarged Prostate
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An unneutered male Dalmatian that has reached 8 years of age, has a better than 80 percent chance of developing prostate disease. The prostate lies behind the bladder. When it enlarges, it pushes against the bladder, causing the urge to urinate frequently. Early neutering of a male Dalmatian will help to prevent prostate enlargement.
Bladder Diverticulum
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This happens when a part of the bladder lining forms a pouch in the muscle wall of the bladder. A bladder diverticulum can be the result of an infection or obstruction from stones. Surgery is the usual treatment.
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