Dogs can develop bladder stones and other urinary issues as they get older. It’s a prevalent occurrence that you can prevent by giving the best dog food for urinary health.
However, your vet has to authorize the food that could treat whatever urinary ailment your fur baby is suffering from.
If your dog doesn’t like eating what it must eat, you may request for a change in the diet. I review nine of the most famous canine foods for urinary care for your perusal.
Table of Contents
The Best Dog Food for Urinary Health Are:
| Product | Details | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Royal Canin Urinary SO Veterinary Diet Dry Dog Food |  Top Pick |
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| 2. Royal Canin Moderate Calorie Urinary SO Veterinary Diet Dry Dog Food |  |
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| 3. Hill's Prescription Diet Urinary Care c/d Multicare |  |
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| 4. Royal Canin Urinary SO Veterinary Diet Canned Dog Food |  |
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| 5. Hill's Prescription Diet Multicare c/d Urinary Care |  |
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| 6. Royal Canin Moderate Calorie Urinary SO Veterinary Diet Thin Slices in Gravy Canned Dog Food |  |
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| 7. Royal Canin Urinary SO Small Breed Veterinary Diet Dry Dog Food |  |
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| 8. Hill's Prescription Diet c/d Multicare Urinary Care Canned Dog Food |  |
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| 9. Hill's Prescription Diet u/d Urinary Care Original Dry Dog Food |  |
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1. Royal Canin Urinary SO Veterinary Diet Dry Dog Food — Best Dog Food for Urinary Crystals
My vet prescribed Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Urinary SO for my pet that’s suffering some discomfort due to urinary issues.
I learned that it increases the urine that my fur baby produces to dilute any minerals that may cause urinary and bladder health problems.
Its Relative Supersaturation (RSS) technology lowers the ion concentration in the urine. Ions contribute to the formation of stones.
This dog food is a specialized diet that reduces the magnesium level and dissolves the pure struvite stones.
Additionally, it prevents the formation of the crystals to lessen the recurrence of urinary tract issues. It’s an expensive diet, so my vet didn’t prescribe it for long-term urinary support.
Specs
- Kibble form
- Requires a veterinary authorization
- For urinary health in adult dogs
Pros
- Dissolves struvite stones
- Prevents calcium oxalate stones
- Uses Relative Supersaturation (RSS) method for the reduction of the probability to form crystals
- Creates an adverse environment for the formation of bladder crystals
- Supports recurrence of struvite stones
Cons
- Expensive
- Not liked by some dogs
If your dog is prone to urinary tract issues, your veterinarian may authorize Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Urinary SO.
It’s in kibble form and derives its protein from non-meat ingredients. Generally, canines need proteins from animal flesh, but this pet diet is a specialized one for urinary health.
It doesn’t contain any anonymous meat components, preservatives, and artificial colors.
Overall Rating – 4.8
2. Royal Canin Moderate Calorie Urinary SO Veterinary Diet Dry Dog Food
My fur baby also tried Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Urinary SO Moderate Calorie. It was efficient in easing its discomfort from urinary issues.
This veterinary-authorized kibble helps increase the amount of urine to flush out stones and crystals.
I like that it has a moderate calorie content, so it’s able to maintain the healthy weight of my pet. It uses the Relative Supersaturation (RSS) method to prevent the formation of crystals and stones.
This veterinary diet leaves a big dent in my pocket, so I asked my vet for another recipe for long-term urinary support when my fur baby got well. It also has hard kibbles that other fur babies may find troublesome to chew.
Specs
- Dry canine food
- For urinary health of adult dogs
- Requires a vet prescription
- Moderate calories
Pros
- Dissolves pure struvite stones
- Prevents the formation of calcium oxalate stones
- Has 10% fewer calories than the Urinary SO kibbles
- Uses the Relative Supersaturation (RSS) methodology to reduce the concentration of ions in the urine
- Reduces the constant trips of dogs outside, peeing inside, and straining to go
Cons
- Hard kibbles
- Expensive
- Not palatable to some dogs
Your pet may like Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Urinary SO Moderate Calorie if your vet prescribes it for urinary and bladder issues.It has non-meat ingredients as its protein source, but it’s a prescription diet.
As specialized nutrition, it may have a different nutritional focus to solve any health issues. It doesn’t contain any preservatives, artificial colors, or anonymous meat ingredients.
Overall Rating – 4.8
3. Hill’s Prescription Diet Urinary Care c/d Multicare
Hill’s Prescription Diet c/d Multicare in Chicken Recipe is tested dog food for urinary care. Bladder stones can create discomfort and result in other severe issues.
This veterinary-authorized nutrition reduces the risk of calcium oxalate and struvite stone. It controls the calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium levels, as well as the fat levels.
It has low sodium content and enriched amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, potassium nitrate, and antioxidants.
This diet dissolves struvite stones, while the S+OXSHIELDTM prevents the formation of crystals in the urine. Vets recommend it for long-term feeding of adult dogs.
This pet food provides a balanced and complete meal that your fur baby needs. Some dogs, however, may not like it.
Specs
- Kibble form
- For urinary care of adult dogs
- Prescription diet
- AAFCO-approved
Pros
- Developed by vets and nutritions to reduce the formation of calcium oxalate and struvite stores
- Formulated with the right amount of magnesium, phosphorous, and calcium
- Enhanced with omega-3 fatty acids, potassium citrate, and antioxidants for a healthy immune system
- Balanced sodium and fat levels for maintenance of the ideal body and weight conditions
Cons
- Not liked by some fur babies
- Costly
Your veterinarian may authorize the feeding of your sick dog with Hill’s Prescription Diet Multicare c/d in chicken flavor.
This pet food underwent superior feeding trials to ensure balanced and complete nutrition. It has a different nutrition focus, so its protein sources come from non-meat ingredients.
It does not contain any preservatives, artificial colors, or anonymous meat ingredients.
Overall Rating – 4.8
4. Royal Canin Urinary SO Veterinary Diet Canned Dog Food
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Urinary SO is wet dog food for fur babies suffering from the urinary tract and bladder issues.
It relieves them of any discomfort and provides the nutrition support that sick dogs require. It uses the Relative Supersaturation (RSS) method to diminish the ion concentration in urine.
It also limits the formation of crystals and reduces magnesium levels. It is expensive dog food, so I talked to my vet about providing other long-term urinary support after my fur baby got well.
Specs
- Wet dog food
- Veterinarian authorized
- For adult canines with urinary issues
- AAFCO-approved
Pros
- Prevents the formation of calcium oxalate stones
- Dissolves pure struvite stones
- Water down excess crystal-and-stone-forming minerals
- Uses Relative Supersaturation (RSS) technology for the lowering of the concentration of ions in urine
- Reduces constant peeing
Cons
- Expensive
- Too big cans
- Not liked by some canines
For some reason, your beloved fur baby may not like to eat the kibbles. You may request your vet to prescribe Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Urinary SO.
Wet dog food is often more palatable and resembles proteins in their natural state. It’s also more hydrating than dry dog food because it has more water.
This canned dog food derives its proteins from meat-based ingredients. You have an assurance that your pet is getting the necessary amino acids. It also doesn’t contain any preservatives, anonymous meat components, and artificial flavors.
Overall Rating – 4.8
5. Hill’s Prescription Diet Multicare c/d Urinary Care
Vets and nutritionists developed Hill’s Prescription Diet Multicare c/d Urinary Care in Chicken and Vegetable Stew.
I like that it’s able to ease the discomfort caused by bladder stones. It’s a complete and balanced diet that supports the urinary health of dogs.
It also lessens the occurrence of calcium oxalate and struvite stones. Dogs can’t resist the bite-sized chunks of chicken.
This urinary care dog food controls the calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and fat levels. It also has omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and potassium citrate to support the overall health of sick canines.
Veterinarians often recommend it for lifelong feeding of adult fur babies that have bladder and urinary tract issues. My dog liked it, but some canines may not.
Specs
- Wet canine food
- Prescription Diet
- For the urinary issues of adult dogs
- AAFCO-approved
Pros
- Dissolves and reduces the formation of calcium oxalate and struvite
- Controls magnesium, phosphorus, and calcium health for optimum health benefits
- Includes omega-3 fatty acids, potassium citrate, and antioxidants
- Controls the fat and sodium levels to ensure that your fur baby maintains its ideal weight
- For long-term adult dog feeding
Cons
- Not palatable to some canines
Your fur baby may like Hill’s Prescription Diet c/d Chicken and Vegetable Stew for Urinary Care that your vet prescribes.
This dog food has real chicken and vegetables that are more palatable than its kibble counterpart.
Its proteins come from meat-based sources, so your pet is getting the essential amino acids to stay healthy. It has no anonymous animal-based ingredients, preservatives, and artificial colors.
Overall Rating – 4.8
6. Royal Canin Moderate Calorie Urinary SO Veterinary Diet Thin Slices in Gravy Canned Dog Food
My dog likes eating Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Urinary SO Thin Slices in Gravy Moderate Calorie because it has real chicken slices.
For my part, I’m happy that it’s able to relieve the discomfort my lovable pet feels because of its urinary issues.
This wet canine food supports the nutritional needs of adult dogs that suffer from bladder and urinary tract issues. It has moderate calories, so it also maintains their healthy weights.
However, this Royal Canin wet dog food in gravy is too messy for my liking. I always have to clean my fur baby right after feeding because it leaves a lot of mess on the area surrounding the mouth.
Specs
- Wet dog food
- AAFCO-approved
- For urinary care of adult canines
- Moderate calories
- Requires a prescription from a vet
Pros
- Dissolves pure struvite stones
- Prevents the formation of calcium oxalate stones
- Uses Relative Supersaturation (RSS) technology in lowering the concentration of ions in urine
- Has 26% fewer calories than the Royal Canin Urinary SO kibbles
- Stops the constant peeing of dogs
Cons
- Not all fur babies like it
- Messy
Your vet may prescribe Royal Canin Urinary SO Veterinary Diet Thin Slices in Gravy for your fur baby. This dog food is effective in preventing the formation of struvite and calcium oxalate stones.
It has meat-based proteins, so your canine is getting the necessary amino acids it needs. It’s an excellent product with no unknown meat ingredients, artificial preservatives, and colors.
Overall Rating – 4.8
7. Royal Canin Urinary SO Small Breed Veterinary Diet Dry Dog Food
Small breed canines like Shih Tzu and Bichon Frise are prone to urinary tract infections. To relieve them of any discomfort, vets prescribe Royal Canin Urinary SO Veterinary Diet for Small Breeds.
Its formulation is specifically for the nutritional requirements of fur babies under 22 pounds. It dilutes the extra minerals that cause the formation of stones and crystals by increasing the urine that they produce.
Compared to other urinary care products of Royal Canin, this dog food has a kibble size that reduces tartar buildup.
I only have one complaint about this pet food. Its formulation is high in calories, so my dog gained weight.
It’s another issue that my vet and I have to manage because obesity is a no-no among small breeds. After all, it causes many other health dilemmas.
Specs
- Kibble form
- For urinary care of small breeds
- AAFCO-approved
- Prescription diet
Pros
- Kibble size promotes chewing for a reduction of tartar buildup
- Dilutes minerals that cause stones and crystals
- Uses Relative Supersaturation (RSS) technology that lowers the concentration of ions in urine
- Prevents constant peeing and straining to go
Cons
- High in calories
- Not liked by some fur buddies
Your vet may prescribe the Royal Canin Small Breed Urinary SO Veterinary Diet for urinary tract and bladder problems.
It’s AAFCO-approved, so you have an assurance that you’re giving complete and balanced nutrition to your adult pet.
It sources its proteins from non-meat ingredients, but it’s a prescription diet that focuses on solving a particular health issue. It also doesn’t contain any anonymous meat ingredients, artificial colors, and preservatives.
Overall Rating – 4.8
8. Hill’s Prescription Diet c/d Multicare Urinary Care Canned Dog Food
Hill’s c/d Multicare Prescription Diet Urinary Care in a chicken recipe helps my fur buddy keep its bladder healthy. My vet prescribed it to ease the discomfort that my canine companion feels when peeing.
This wet dog food also prevents any adverse health problems by supporting healthy urinary and bladder function. Its formulation balances the minerals without overloading my beloved pet’s system. It also discourages the formation of stones and crystals.
My only complaint is that it has a dry and crumbly consistency. It’s not moist, so it’s troublesome to get everything out of the can. I also have to add soup to soften it, so my precious dog can eat it. It’s challenging to mix this wet dog food with kibbles.
Specs
- Wet dog food
- Veterinarian-authorized
- For urinary care of adult canines
- AAFCO-approved
Pros
- Reduces the risk of formation of struvite and calcium oxalate stones
- Fortified with calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus for optimal health
- Includes potassium citrate, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids for overall well being
- Low sodium and balanced fat levels for a healthy weight
Cons
- Not palatable for some furry companions
- Dry, crumbly consistency
This wet canine food underwent superior feeding trials, so you have an assurance that it offers a complete and balanced diet.
Hill’s Prescription Diet Urinary Care c/d Multicare derives its proteins from meat-based sources. Your fur buddy is also getting the essential amino acids.
You’ll be happy to know that it has no unnamed meat ingredients, artificial colors, and artificial preservatives.
Overall Rating – 4.6
9. Hill’s Prescription Diet u/d Urinary Care Original Dry Dog Food
Food is a significant component in the management of urinary tract and bladder problems. I’m happy that my vet prescribed a diet that works for my fur baby.
Hill’s Prescription Diet Original Urinary Care u/d helps in balancing the minerals to ensure that my canine has excellent bladder health.
It doesn’t encourage crystals formation in the urine because they are the same elements that produce bladder stones. I like that it has antioxidants to control cell oxidation and promote a healthy immune system.
However, it’s costly, so I’m thankful that my vet doesn’t recommend it for long-term feeding.
Specs
- Dry pet food
- For the urinary health of adult dogs
- AAFCO-approved
- Needs vet authorization
Pros
- Highly digestible and quality proteins for reducing the formation risk of non-struvite stones
- Decreased calcium levels to limit the stone formation in the bladder
- Enhanced with taurine and L-carnitine for healthy heart muscles
- Added antioxidants for a healthy immune system and controlled cell oxidation
- Encourages desirable pH levels in urine
Cons
- Costly
- Not liked by some fur babies
Hill’s Prescription Diet u/d Original Urinary Care is in kibble form that your vet may authorize for your fur baby’s bladder and urinary tract issues.
It’s a meatless diet, that the manufacturers designed for a specific purpose. It doesn’t contain any artificial preservatives and colors.
Overall Rating – 4.7
Prevalent Issues You Have To Monitor With Your Fur Buddies
If you notice some changes in the urinary habits of your fur baby, you have to consult your veterinarian.
Here’s a list of some of the things that you have to worry about when it comes to the urinary tract and bladder health of canines:
Infection
Infection in the lower urinary tract is a familiar occurrence among canines. If you don’t bring your dog to the vet, it can lead to other adverse kidney diseases.
Kidney or Bladder Stones
Mineral crystallization in the urinary tract can form into stones. Some will pass in the urine, but large stones can cause pain because they block the urinary tract.
Types of Urinary Stones
- Struvite crystals – occur in urine that is too alkaline and consists of magnesium ammonium phosphate
- Calcium oxalate – develops in urine that is too acidic
Struvite crystals are the most prevalent, so pet food manufacturers produce acidifying diets. However, these foods are a contributory factor in the formation of calcium oxalate crystals.
The most appropriate approach is to pick a slightly acidic diet to maintain the pH level of your canine’s urine. Your vet can decide the right treatment for urinary tract and bladder issues.
You also have to check the ingredients in the diet of your canine. For instance, you can add natural sources of antioxidants and Vitamin C to rebalance the pH level of the urine in pets. However, you have to lessen the vitamin C content if your fur baby has stones.
Incontinence
Older dogs may lose control of their urethral sphincter, so they become incontinent.
Kidney Failure
If your canine ingests some toxic substances like antifreeze, it may have urinary symptoms caused by kidney failure.
Other Bladder and Kidney Issues
- Bladder stones
- Ureteral stones
- Urolithiasis
- Urinary calculus disease
- Urinary calculi
Warning Signs That Your Fur Companion May Need Urinary Care
Urinary habits vary, so you have to monitor your canine for any changes. As it grows older, peeing habits may change because its muscles around the bladder weaken. You have to consult your vet if you’re unsure about your pet’s urine and bladder issues.
Here are some of the signs that you have to watch out for with your fur friend:
- Difficulty urinating or painful peeing
- More frequent urination
- Excessive genitals licking
- Changes in the consumption of water
- Blood in the urine
- Foul-smelling or cloudy urine
Some breeds are more prone to urinary health issues. Male canines are less likely to develop crystals and urinary tract infections. However, if they experience any problems, they are in a more dangerous situation because of their urethral anatomy.
Dog breeds more prone to urinary tract issues:
- Black Russian Terriers
- German Shepherds
- Bulldogs
- Dalmatians
Buying Guide For Best Dog Food For Urinary Tract Infections
Your vet can diagnose any urinary health issues, but you have to give detailed information about its symptoms. He’ll request for several tests to confirm the diagnosis, but treatment varies, depending on the type of urinary problem.
You can search for a limited ingredient recipe with essential fatty acids, vegetables, whole grains, and real meat protein.
Specifically, you have to ensure to pick dog food with the following qualities:
High Quality and Whole Food Ingredients
You have to avoid food products with fillers, by-products, and artificial additives. You can opt for natural, whole food, and high-quality ingredients.
Rich in Premium Meat Protein
Proteins must be the basis of your canine’s diet, and they must come from fish, poultry, and meat.
Omega Fatty Acids
Omega fatty acids not only promote healthy skin and coat but provide anti-inflammatory benefits as well. They also offer a concentrated energy source.
Moderate Inflammatory Ingredients
High-starch components and refined carbohydrates can worsen the inflammation and can also advance urinary tract problems in canines.
Easy to Digest and High in Moisture Content
If you want your furry friend to have excellent urinary tract health, you have to opt for pet food with high moisture content. Probiotics and fiber can also boost digestion.
Final Thoughts
Urinary tract and bladder issues are prevalent among adult dogs, so you have to consult your vet if your fur baby is suffering from them. He will prescribe the right diet to ease the discomfort.
This specialized pet nutrition has different nutritional requirements than regular canine foods. Sometimes, your furry buddy may not like the food that your veterinarian authorizes. You can talk to him to replace it with any of the options I reviewed.
I am recommending Royal Canin Urinary SO Veterinary Diet in kibble form. It is not because the others are not as good, but because it is also the most popular among pet parents.
It eases the discomfort caused by urinary problems and dilutes the extra minerals that help in the formation of crystals and stones. It uses the Relative Supersaturation (RSS) methodology to decrease the concentration levels of ions in the urine.
You may request your vet to prescribe it if you feel that the current food for urinary care isn’t acceptable to your best buddy.
