Shih Tzu Urinary Problems: Bladder Stones, Infections, and Prevention
How we researched this guide: This article is based on the Merck Veterinary Manual, VCA Animal Hospitals, and the University of Minnesota Canine Genetics Lab. It is not a substitute for an exam. Last reviewed: September 2026.
Urinary problems are common in Shih Tzus, and the breed has a known risk for bladder stones. Catching the signs early can prevent pain and serious complications.
Emergency: if your Shih Tzu is straining to pee but producing little or no urine, go to a vet or emergency clinic right away. VCA Animal Hospitals warns that a complete blockage from a stone is potentially life-threatening and needs immediate treatment.
Signs of a Urinary Problem
- Straining or crying while peeing
- Peeing small amounts often
- Blood in the urine or pink-tinged urine
- Accidents in the house
- Licking the genital area a lot
- Strong-smelling or cloudy urine
- Drinking and peeing much more than usual
- Low energy or poor appetite
Increased thirst and urination can also be caused by kidney disease or diabetes, so your vet will usually test blood as well as urine.
Bladder Stones: A Known Shih Tzu Risk
Both the Merck Veterinary Manual and the University of Minnesota Canine Genetics Lab list the Shih Tzu among the breeds more commonly affected by calcium oxalate stones. VCA also lists Shih Tzus among the breeds predisposed to struvite stones.
| Stone type | Common cause | Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Struvite | Usually a bladder infection, according to VCA | Often dissolved with a special prescription diet plus antibiotics. VCA notes this can take from about 2 to 12 weeks. |
| Calcium oxalate | Genetic and diet factors | Cannot be dissolved, according to Merck. Stones need to be removed by surgery or another procedure. |
VCA notes that struvite stones are much more common in female dogs. Your vet can confirm the stone type with X-rays or ultrasound, a urine test, and a lab analysis of any stone that is removed.
Urinary Tract Infections
Bladder infections cause many of the same signs as stones: frequent peeing, straining, and blood in the urine. They are usually treated with antibiotics after a urine test. Because VCA links struvite stones to bladder infections, it is important to finish the full course of medicine and go back for a recheck if your vet asks.
How Vets Diagnose Urinary Problems
Merck lists a physical exam, blood tests, a urinalysis with urine culture, and abdominal X-rays as the usual workup. Ultrasound can find stones that do not show on X-rays.
How to Help Prevent Urinary Problems
- Encourage drinking. Merck notes that more water and high-moisture diets help by diluting the urine. Keep fresh water in several places.
- Offer frequent potty breaks. Holding urine for long periods is not good for the bladder. Our Shih Tzu potty training guide covers normal frequency.
- Keep the rear area clean. A short sanitary trim helps prevent urine and debris from building up.
- Follow your vet’s diet plan. Dogs with a history of stones may need a prescription urinary diet for life.
- Recheck regularly. VCA and Merck suggest urine tests or X-rays every 3 to 6 months for dogs at high risk of stones coming back.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Shih Tzus prone to bladder stones?
Yes. The Merck Veterinary Manual and the University of Minnesota list Shih Tzus among the breeds more commonly affected by calcium oxalate stones, and VCA lists Shih Tzus as predisposed to struvite stones.
What are the signs of a urinary problem in a Shih Tzu?
Common signs include straining, peeing small amounts often, blood in the urine, accidents in the house, licking the genital area, and strong-smelling urine.
Can bladder stones in dogs dissolve on their own?
No. Struvite stones can often be dissolved with a prescription diet and antibiotics under vet care. Calcium oxalate stones cannot be dissolved and need to be removed.
When is a urinary problem an emergency?
If your dog is straining but passing little or no urine, go to a vet right away. A blocked urethra is life-threatening, according to VCA.
How can I prevent urinary problems in my Shih Tzu?
Encourage your dog to drink more water, offer frequent potty breaks, keep the rear area clean, follow any prescribed urinary diet, and attend recheck visits.
Sources
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Urolithiasis in dogs
- VCA Animal Hospitals: Struvite bladder stones in dogs
- University of Minnesota Canine Genetics Lab: Calcium oxalate urinary stones
This article is for general information. It is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Read our medical disclaimer.
