Low Purine Requirement: Dalmatians
Dalmatians are more susceptible to urate crystals. They have reduced reabsorption of urate in the renal tubules (kidney) which causes them to excrete large amounts in the urine. A presence of a high concentration of urate in the urinary tract appears to predispose this breed to the development of urate urolithiasis (uroliths).
Other factors are also linked to the production of uroliths such as urinary ammonium concentration (ammonia in urine), urinary pH (how acidic or alkaline the urine is), the presence of a UTI (urinary tract infection) and dietary purine intake.
It is recommended to ensure adequate hydration and feed a diet with moderate to low levels of high-quality protein and low purines to promote alkaline urine. It is important to choose an appropriate diet that is suitable for your dog dependant upon age, body condition, sex and other health considerations. If concerned about which diet to feed always consult with your Veterinary Surgeon who will be able to offer the best advice.
Minimising the risk of stone formation
The incidence of urate stones is very low and below are listed some facts to minimise the risk of stone formation for your Dalmatians:
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Adequate hydration: offering plenty of fresh water in different bowls and from different resources such as tap water, bottled, or filtered water. You can also add small amounts of water to dry food at each meal. Always encourage the dogs to drink extra water, especially in hot weather, when they lose heat by panting and urine will be more concentrated.
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Encourage the dog to perform frequent urination. Acidic urine that sits in the bladder encourages the formation of urate stones.
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Limit the animal’s purine intake (a list showing purine levels in different foods can be found here. High purine foods, such as brewer’s yeast, red meats and offal – especially liver, kidneys and heart – should be avoided. It is recommended to feed a moderate to low level of highly digestible protein (for an adult dog).
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Use pH indicators to monitor urinary acidity and aim for pH neutral. A Dalmatian's pH should be monitored periodically along with a regular urinalysis. Inexpensive test strips to test pH, acid or alkaline content in the urine can be purchased. Ideally, a Dalmatian's urine should be neutral with a pH of 7.0. Anything lower is acidic, and when the pH gets to 5.0 - 5.5, a dog is at risk for forming stones. Urine should be tested first thing in the morning after it has been in the bladder all night
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Since there is no test available to determine if an individual Dalmatian has a predisposition to developing urinary stones, Dalmatian owners are often encouraged to have a urinalysis several times a year through your veterinary practice. The test, which shows whether there are crystals or sediment in the urine, may help prevent obstruction.
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In the event of crystal or stone formation, urinary tract disease or acidic urine a special veterinary diet may be required, as well as the use of medication.
OSCAR adult foods
Maize, Chicken & Rice Wheat Gluten Free Dog Food
This is one of our dietary options for healthy adult Dalmatians, the diet contains no yeast, no red meats, is moderate in protein and contains no other ingredients that are high in purines. It also contains STAY-C 50® to help with dental care and Glucosamine for joints.
The maize offers an alternative source of protein that is lower in purines. It is advisable as discussed above to ensure regular sampling of the urine to monitor pH levels and request a full analysis twice a year.
Universal with Chicken & Rice Dog Food
This is another of our dietary options for healthy adult Dalmatians, the diet contains no yeast, no red meats, is lower in protein and contains no other ingredients that are high in purines. It also contains Glucosamine for joints. The maize offers an alternative source of protein that is lower in purines.
Remember to always discuss diet with your Veterinary Surgeon if you have any concerns and maintain regular urine monitoring and encourage the dog to drink plenty of water.
Do you need further advice?
If you need any further advice, please contact the OSCAR Helpline Team on our freephone number 0800 195 8000 or email helpline@oscars.co.uk.