Kidney and Urinary Health in English Bulldogs

Quick answer

English Bulldogs have a well-documented predisposition to specific urinary conditions that affect how their bodies process minerals. Because of these tendencies, owners should be vigilant about any changes in urination habits, such as straining, frequent attempts to go, or blood in the urine. Early detection through routine veterinary testing is the most effective way to manage these risks and ensure your dog remains comfortable.

Hyperuricosuria

Hyperuricosuria is a condition where the dog produces urine with very high levels of uric acid. This is well recognised in the breed, specifically in males that are homozygous for the SLC2A9 mutation. When uric acid levels are consistently high, it creates an environment in the bladder that is prone to forming solid particles.

At home, you may not notice anything unusual until a blockage occurs or the dog starts showing signs of discomfort. You might see your dog straining to urinate, spending a long time in the squatting position, or producing only small drops of urine. If you notice your dog licking the genital area excessively or showing signs of pain when trying to empty their bladder, this warrants an immediate check-up. Your veterinarian will typically perform a urinalysis and potentially imaging, such as an ultrasound or X-ray, to see if crystals or stones have formed. Identifying this condition early is important because it prevents the more severe complications associated with stone formation.

Urolithiasis

Urolithiasis refers to the formation of stones within the urinary tract. This is a recognised tendency rather than a proven one in English Bulldogs, specifically linked to the same SLC2A9 mutation that causes hyperuricosuria, which leads to urate stones. Additionally, this breed is predisposed to the formation of cystine uroliths. These stones can vary in size and location, ranging from the kidneys down to the bladder and urethra.

How this passes down is not settled, but the impact on your dog's health can be significant. The first signs an owner might notice include blood-tinged urine, a strong or unusual odor to the urine, or accidents in the house from a dog that is otherwise house-trained. A veterinarian will use a physical exam to check for bladder distension and use diagnostic imaging to locate the stones. The urgency of the situation is determined by whether the stones are causing a physical obstruction. If your dog is unable to pass urine, this is a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate intervention to prevent kidney damage or bladder rupture.