Struvite Crystals In Dogs And Guidelines For a Special Diet

Dogs can develop stones like humans, and diet is a large part of therapy for struvite crystals in dogs.

Here, we will discuss the best dog food and treats for dogs with urinary crystals.

We will also explain the diet basics for dogs with struvite crystals and guidelines for best feeding practices.

Let's begin!

What are Struvite Crystals in Dogs?

Struvite stones are one of the several types of urinary tract stones (urolithiasis) that can form in a dog's bladder.

They are formed from struvite crystals in our dogs' urine. However, problems occur when these crystals group and form large stones in the dog's urinary tract.

Female dogs are more susceptible to this problem. It's observed that only 15% of male dogs will suffer from urinary tract stones.

In most cases, struvite bladder stones are caused by a urinary tract infection.

However, a small percentage of less complicated cases have seen metabolic or sterile struvite stones, or stones that form without any associated infection.

These stones tend to dissolve faster, but are treated the same way as any other type of struvite crystals in dogs.

Struvite stones are formed in alkaline urine; one way to treat and prevent them is to make your dog's urine more acidic.

This is where adjusting your dog's diet will help.

This article does not cover the condition, so if you want to learn more about this type of urinary crystals in dogs, see the Merck Vet Manual guide here.

Here's what a dog's bladder stone looks like:

Feeding Guideline for Dogs with Struvite Crystals

For the rest of the article, I'll discuss feeding guidelines and diet for dogs with struvite crystals and how you can improve your pet's condition.

Make sure you consult with a vet before you make any dietary adjustments like these.

Low-Protein, Higher-Sodium Diet

One way to help dogs with struvite crystals is to feed them a low-protein diet, as protein is very taxing on dogs' kidneys.

Be aware that feeding dogs low-protein diets does not guarantee they will not develop urinary tract stones. However, this was based on a few studies showing that high-protein diets in cats increase the risk of bladder stones.

While a low-protein diet isn't meant to prevent stone formation, it may, in theory, speed up their dissolution.

The diet should be accompanied by antibiotic treatment.

Most low-protein dog foods have a protein content of around 25 percent, so look for foods with at least half as much protein, about 10-15 percent.

If you are cooking for your dog, try to stick to this percentage (more on this below).

RELATED: Low-Protein Homemade Dog Food Recipe

 

Drink Plenty of Water

Struvite crystals are formed in alkaline urine. Drinking more water will help his urine become more diluted and acidic.

One way to get your dog to drink more water is to increase his sodium intake.

However, please do not overdo it on either water or sodium.

Too much salt can be dangerous to dogs, and too much water may result in water intoxication.

This is why it's essential to consult with a veterinarian to keep monitoring the dog's condition.

Furthermore, some dogs, especially those with a history of kidney disease, heart disease, or high blood pressure, should avoid the high-sodium diet.

The diet is not good long-term. Use it only briefly until your dog's struvite crystals are dissolved, and then put him on a regular, well-balanced diet.

RELATED: How to Make a Dog Drink Water: Easy to Follow Steps!

Avoid These Minerals!

Some minerals contribute to the formation of struvite crystals in dogs.

Avoiding the below-mentioned minerals is suitable for preventing and treating urinary tract stones.

These minerals are essential to the dog's overall health; their restriction should only be temporary and closely monitored.

Phosphorus

Phosphorus is found in different amounts in foods like eggs, milk, and fish. Either track the quantities and adjust the diet as necessary, or avoid these foods altogether.

Magnesium

Magnesium is mainly found in vegetables, especially spinach and broccoli.

Avoiding green beans and whole grains would help, at least while your dog is in therapy.

After that, include these things in moderation because they are suitable for your dog's digestion and will help him stay healthy.

Seafood is also rich in magnesium.

Ammonia

Ammonia is naturally found in beef, as well as other animal proteins.

It means that a low-protein diet will already decrease your dog's ammonia levels.

However, it would help if you also avoided cheeses and processed food. Don't feed your dog human food, either.

Best Dog Food for Dogs with Struvite Crystals

Remember that even after your dog removes its struvite bladder stones, you must monitor its diet to avoid reoccurrence and formation.

In addition to regularly checking the pH levels of his urine, you should also make a diet according to his needs.

If you're making homemade dog food or treats for dogs with urinary crystals, the foods below are the best for this condition.

Foods to Include

Cranberries

Cranberries are good for urinary tract infection prevention, making them suitable for preventing the formation of struvite crystals in dogs.

They stop bacteria from adhering to the tissue that lines the urinary tract and bladder.

You can also use fresh and natural cranberry juice or cranberry capsules.

Probiotics

Probiotics are suitable for your dog because they increase the number of good bacteria in his digestive tract.

You can use probiotic supplements or natural foods like yogurt; add a few tablespoons to your dog's meal.

However, probiotic supplements will have higher concentrations and may benefit the dog more.

Carrots, Apples, Sweet Potatoes, Pumpkins

These, plus other fruits and vegetables, should be a part of your dog's diet. They are rich in Vitamin C, which has a strong anti-inflammatory effect.

Even though dogs produce their vitamin C, the amount may not be enough to prevent the formation of bladder stones.

Feed these foods in moderation because they are also known to alkalize your dog's urine.

Unrefined Sea Salt

When you cook for your canine, use unrefined sea salt instead of refined table salt. This salt has more minerals and trace elements than fine salt.

Remember, a little salt is suitable for your dog because it makes him drink more water and urinate often; however, too much salt can harm dogs.

RELATED: Using Salt in Homemade Dog Food Meals

Uva-Ursi Herb

Uva-ursi is an herb that is widely used for bladder infections because it has strong antibacterial properties.

Be careful when using this herb, and follow the label directions carefully.

Uva ursi should only be used for short periods because it can irritate the kidneys if used regularly.

Bone Broth

Traditional bone broth is also good for feeding your dog to prevent bladder stones.

To improve the nutritional value, you can simmer any bones, whether chicken or beef, in water for a day and add some vegetables, like carrots or potatoes.

RELATED: How to Make Bone Broth for Dogs

Foods to Avoid 

Dairy Products

Limit the intake of dairy products.

Giving your dog milk or cheese in small amounts is fine, but if your dog is prone to struvite bladder stone formation, you should try to keep dairy products to a minimum.

Try to stick to low-fat cheeses, like cottage cheese.

High-Protein Diet

Avoid feeding your dog high-protein diets. That said, you shouldn't keep your dog on a low-protein diet for a long time, either. Proper balance will be critical.

When your dog has struvite bladder stones, feed him a low-protein diet with 10-15 percent of his daily protein intake.

You should keep his protein intake at approximately 20 percent (not higher) even after his bladder stones are diluted.

Grains

Grain foods, like wheat, rice, or corn, should also be limited if you haven't already done so.

Some foods, such as rice, may be healthy and useful.

Cooking for a Dog With Struvite Crystals

Regardless of whether your dog has struvite bladder stones, cooking for our pups can be a challenge.

However, although your dog's diet can't completely prevent the formation of struvite stones, it certainly plays a significant role in their occurrence.

These simple homemade dog food recipes for struvite bladder stones are my favorites.

Homemade Dog Food for Struvite Bladder Stones

Ingredients

• 2/3 cup 25% fat ground beef
• 3 cups long-grain white rice
• 2 tsp. canola oil
• 1/4 tsp. potassium chloride
• 1 1/4 tsp. bone meal powder
• 3/4 tsp. iodized salt
• 1 multivitamin and mineral tablet for children
• 50 mg zinc

Preparation

Cook the rice and beef separately, then combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl. Allow it to cool before feeding your dog.

Check out the serving suggestions and nutritional benefits in the link and video below!

RECIPE: Homemade Dog Food for Struvite Bladder Stones

Low-Protein Dog Cookies

These cookies are great for your dog because they are low in protein, contain some vegetables, and are full of nutrients.

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups of rice flour (you can also use white all-purpose bleached flour)
• Six tablespoons of low-sodium and low-fat chicken broth
• 1/2 cup of cold water
• 1 cup cooked winter squashes, sweet potatoes, and zucchini, ground up

Preparation

Combine chicken broth, flour, and vegetables in a mixing bowl and pour cold water over them to form a dough.

Pat this dough until it is half-inch thick, and cut it into any shape you want.

Once cut, put these cookies on a non-stick sheet and bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes.

Let the treats cool off, then serve them to your dog. You can also store them and use them later.

RELATED: 6 Best Low-Protein Dog Treats

Structuring a diet for dogs with struvite crystals and feeding your ailing pet the right way can help manage this condition and prevent it from occurring again.

Making your dog drink a lot of water is also vital because you need to make him urinate more.

Constant urination will stop the formation of struvite crystals in dogs and help your pet dilute them faster.

FAQs

What food dissolves struvite crystals?

Some foods that may help manage or prevent struvite crystals in dogs include lean meats like turkey or chicken, low-phosphorus vegetables like green beans and carrots, and moisture-rich fruits like blueberries or cranberries.

These ingredients can be part of a vet-approved homemade diet promoting urinary acidification and increased hydration, which are key to dissolving struvite crystals.

Always consult a veterinarian before switching to a homemade diet.

Struvite Crystals in Dogs: Before You Go…

Feeding a proper diet is one of the most effective ways to manage and prevent struvite crystals in dogs.

By focusing on moisture-rich, balanced meals that promote urinary health—and working closely with your veterinarian—you can help your pup stay comfortable, hydrated, and crystal-free for the long term.

Do you have anything to share regarding your dog's urinary health? Please share it with us in the comments section!

You can also check out our top recommended articles, which are linked below!

Related Articles

• Bladder Stones in Dogs: Home Remedies and Veterinary Treatments
• 5 Bladder Problems in Dogs: Signs and Treatment
• Urinary Tract Infection in Dogs: Prevention and Treatment