Epidemiology of canine calcium oxalate uroliths - Identifying risk factors

Calcium oxalate uroliths are most commonly encountered in Miniature Schnauz ers, Lhaso Apsos, Yorkshire Terriers, Bichons Prises, Shih Tzus, and Miniat ure Poodles. They are more common in males than females, and more common in older than young dogs. Dogs that form abnormal nephrocalcin are also predi sposed to calcium oxalate uroliths. Dietary risk factors for calcium oxalat e uroliths include excessive calcium supplementation or excessive calcium r estriction, excessive oxalic acid, high protein, high sodium, restricted ph osphorus, restricted potassium, and restricted moisture (dry formulations). Dogs with hyperadrenocorticism or hypercalcemia are predisposed to calcium oxalate urolith formation.