What Causes Gallstones in Dogs?
Smaller breed dogs, such as poodles, are more succeptible developing gallstones. poodle image by palms from Fotolia.com Dogs, like their human companions, have gall bladders, small, balloon-shaped organs that store bile the liver creates. Bile flows from the liver through a bile duct into the gall bladder, then out through another duct into the small intestines, where it aids in digestion. When problems with the bile and its flow occur, gallstones can develop. Smaller breeds, such as miniature schnauzers and poodles, are more prone to developing gallstones, according to PetMD. Gallstone Symptoms Gallstones in dogs often form when the gall bladder fails to properly move bile into the small intestines, resulting in a slowing of the bile in the gall bladder. Gallstones can cause inflammation in the gall bladder, blocking the bile ducts. That may cause hepatitis and erode the gall bladder’s walls. Vomiting, listlessness, jaundice, abdominal sensitivity and diarrhea are symptoms a veterinar
