How Cranberry Supplements Help Prevent Urinary Tract Infections in Dogs

Cranberries for urinary tract health

Some dogs, particularly females, can be prone to urinary tract infections. These can be just as uncomfortable for dogs as they are for people, and prevention is the key. Cranberry on a regular basis can prevent the bacteria that cause urinary tract infection.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a urinary tract infection are painful urination or frequent urination, odorous urine and blood in the urine.

Dosing

Dogs will typically not drink cranberry juice, so giving tablets or capsules is the next best option. Give one 400-mg capsule per 20 pounds of dog each day. If the dog is less than 20 pounds, cranberry tablets can be purchased and then broken in half or fourths.

Significance

Roughly 3 percent of dogs suffer from urinary tract infections. Those who get one once are more prone to re-infection, which is why a daily cranberry supplement can be so useful.

Considerations

Most dogs are given antibiotics to initially kill urinary tract infections, but subsequent daily use of cranberry can help prevent them from returning.

Warning

At the first sign of a urinary tract infection, it is important to get the dog to a veterinarian. The bacteria from a urinary tract infection can travel to the kidneys if left untreated.

Always check with your veterinarian before changing your pet’s diet, medication, or physical activity routines. This information is not a substitute for a vet’s opinion.