An Alkaline Problem

• With struvite stones, the basic problem is that a dog's urine is too alkaline. When the pH gets off balance, struvite crystals form in the bladders. They may start small and be considered "sand"---but as they accumulate, they become stones.
  
  How does urine get alkaline? Urinary tract infections can tip the pH scale in the alkaline direction because bacteria create an alkaline environment. Bacterial metabolic waste can also aid in the formation of crystals. Additionally, an excess of certain minerals like magnesium and phosphate and a dog's genetic predisposition may also play a part.
  
  

Diet To Change pH

• Vets say a balanced diet is very important. But for a dog disposed to struvite crystals, a special diet to lower pH may be required. Hill's Prescription c/d and w/d dog foods, Royal Canin Control and Royal Canin Urinary are specialized good foods formulated to help prevent struvite stones.
  
  Increasing a dog's calcium intake can also be very helpful. A cup of milk before bed is an easy way to get a dog to consume calcium.
  
  Apple cider vinegar is a safe way to help turn a dog's system more acidic. However, do not give apple cider vinegar in combination with specialized stone prevention diets. These diets already acidify urine and the combination can be too much.
  
  

Water Intake And Good Advice

• A dog needs to be consuming a healthy amount of water to prevent struvite stones. Having access to enough fresh water and drinking regularly will help make sure a dog is urinating enough to prevent mineral accumulation in the bladder. For dogs that may not consume enough water, consider switching to wet dog food.
  
  Most importantly, consult a veterinarian with any concerns about a dog's urinary tract problems or strategies to prevent them.