Managing Calcium Oxalate Stones in Dogs: Safe Treats and Feeding Guidelines

Dr. Zeke Zekoff
Apr 3
3 min read

Calcium oxalate (CaOx) uroliths—commonly known as bladder or kidney stones—are a frustrating and often recurring health issue for many dogs. Once a dog has formed these stones, managing their diet becomes essential to reduce the risk of recurrence. And one of the trickiest parts? Figuring out what treats are actually safe.

This post offers practical dietary strategies, approved treats, and important “do nots” for dogs prone to CaOx stone formation.

Why Diet Matters for CaOx Stone Formers

Once your dog forms calcium oxalate stones, dietary adjustments are key to preventing future ones. Prescription urinary diets are usually the foundation of treatment, but what you feed outside of those meals—especially treats—can make or break your progress.

Treats, supplements, and even certain vegetables can contribute to the recurrence of stones by increasing urinary oxalate levels, altering urine pH, or reducing water intake. The good news? With a few strategic swaps, you can still give your dog snacks without increasing their risk.

Approved Treats for Dogs with Calcium Oxalate Stones

Here’s a list of vet-recommended, low-oxalate treats that can safely be included in your dog’s diet (in moderation):

Plain low-fat yogurt (2–3 tbsp, 2–3x per week)
Apple slices (no more than ¼ medium apple)
White rice
Rye bread
Plain, non-salted saltine crackers (2–3 max)
Cooked meats in small amounts (chicken, beef, egg)
Cabbage, cauliflower, cucumber, green peas
Iceberg lettuce
Baby carrots (2–3 per day)

Moisture-rich treats are especially beneficial, as they support higher urine output and help dilute minerals in the bladder.

Treats and Foods to Avoid

Several common pet snacks and human foods are high in oxalates or otherwise problematic for stone-prone dogs. Avoid:

High-protein treats or large amounts of meat
Green leafy vegetables (e.g., kale, spinach, broccoli)
Vitamin or mineral supplements (especially Vitamin C and D)
Soy products
Rawhide chews (can increase oxalate production)
Greenies and similar dental treats with high-oxalate ingredients
Vitamin C and glycine-based supplements (they metabolize to oxalate)

When in doubt, check the ingredient label—and opt for simplicity over novelty.

Dental Chew Alternatives

Most dental chews are hard to evaluate without knowing the full ingredient list. In general, it’s safer to stick with:

Nylabones
KONG toys
Moisture-rich options (such as soft frozen treats made from low-oxalate ingredients)

Avoid rawhides and chews made with mystery proteins or added supplements.

Other Dietary Tips for Prevention

Keep treats under 10% of daily calories to preserve the effectiveness of the prescription diet.
Increase water intake to keep urine specific gravity (USG) below 1.020 throughout the day.
- Mix canned food with extra water (1 can of water per can of food).
- Add water to dry food (up to 3 cups of water per 1 cup of kibble).
Feed small, frequent meals (3–5/day) instead of 1–2 large meals to maintain a more alkaline urinary environment.
Consider potassium citrate supplementation (typically 75 mg/kg with meals) to alkalinize urine if pH remains too low.
Avoid high-vitamin D fish oils or poorly regulated multivitamins.

Final Thoughts

Managing CaOx uroliths in dogs isn’t just about the main meals—it’s about every bite. While it may seem like the list of “don’ts” is long, there are still plenty of ways to offer your pup satisfying treats that don’t compromise their health.

Stick to moisture-rich, low-oxalate, and vet-approved snacks, and always consult your veterinarian before introducing new foods. With consistency and the right nutritional approach, you can reduce your dog’s risk of stone recurrence—and still make room for the occasional, healthy treat.