Understanding Liver Disease in Dogs: Symptoms, Diet & Care

Just like humans, a dog’s liver plays a vital role in keeping them healthy. It helps digest food, filter toxins, and regulate blood. When the liver isn’t working properly, it can cause serious health issues.

Liver disease in dogs is unfortunately quite common and can affect all breeds and ages. The earlier it’s detected, the better chance you have of managing it and helping your dog live a happy life.

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What Causes Liver Disease in Dogs?

There isn’t just one cause—several factors can contribute:

• Genetics – Some breeds are more prone, including Bedlington Terriers, Cocker Spaniels, Maltese, Standard Poodles, Chihuahuas, Golden Retrievers, and West Highland Terriers.

• Diet – Long-term consumption of fatty foods increases the risk.

• Toxins – Mouldy corn, certain wild mushrooms, artificial sweeteners, or other poisonous substances can trigger sudden liver failure. Always seek immediate vet advice if ingestion is suspected.

• Underlying illness – Conditions like diabetes or pancreatitis may put extra strain on the liver.

• Injury or trauma – Accidents can directly damage the liver.

• Old age – Senior dogs are more at risk as organs naturally weaken over time.

Signs Your Dog May Have Liver Problems

Because symptoms can be subtle at first, it’s important to know what to watch for:

• Loss of appetite or weight loss

• Drinking more and urinating more often

• Vomiting or diarrhoea

• Instability or wobbliness

• Jaundice (yellowing of eyes, gums, or tongue)

• Lethargy or weakness

• Blood in urine or stool

• Seizures

⚠️ If you notice any of these signs, contact your vet immediately.

How Does Liver Disease Progress?

Your vet will determine how advanced the condition is, but in general:

Early Stages

• Mild loss of appetite

• Subtle weight loss

• More frequent drinking and urination

• Occasional vomiting or diarrhoea

These symptoms are easy to miss, so if your dog “just doesn’t seem themselves,” it’s worth getting them checked.

Later Stages

• Jaundice (eyes, gums, tongue turning yellow)

• Incontinence or frequent accidents

• Refusal to eat or worsening digestive issues

• Prolonged weakness, sickness, and fatigue

Diet for Dogs with Liver Disease

One of the most important steps in treatment is diet. Your vet may recommend a specialist hepatic (liver-friendly) food that is:

• Lower in protein – but still contains easily digestible sources like white fish, peas, eggs, chicken, or even ostrich.

• Easily digestible – gentle on the liver while still providing nutrients.

• Low in copper – too much copper can damage the liver.

• Higher in zinc – which helps counteract copper build-up.

• Tasty – dogs with liver disease may have a reduced appetite, so palatable food is key.

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Treatments Your Vet May Recommend

Every dog is different, and treatment depends on the severity. Options may include:

• Switching to a hepatic diet

• Medication for nausea or digestive issues

• Fluid therapy for dehydration

• Nutritional supplements

• Regular vet check-ups and monitoring

👉 Important note: Liver disease cannot be reversed, but with the right care, the condition can be managed to improve quality of life.

Safe Foods & Treats for Dogs with Liver Disease

Yes—dogs with liver issues can still enjoy treats! Just choose carefully.

Good options (in moderation):

• Blueberries – rich in antioxidants, protect the liver from oxidative stress (see our range of Apawtiser fruit and veg treats)

• Bananas – high in vitamin B, gentle on the liver (see our Apawtiser banana treats)

• Eggs – easily digestible protein, nutrient-rich

• Sweet potatoes – contain vitamin B, fibre, and healthy starch
  
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Foods to Avoid:

• High-copper or salty foods: lamb, duck, pork, offal

• Red meats (beef)

• Commercial dog foods with preservatives, fillers, or added sugar

• Human leftovers and table scraps

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Choosing the Right Food Brand

Your vet will guide you on the best diet for your dog. Some popular hepatic dog food brands include:

• Royal Canin Hepatic

• Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets

• Pooch & Mutt (specialist options)

🐾 At Be More Bob, we don’t stock these specialist foods, but we always recommend doing your own research and asking your vet for tailored advice.

Final Thoughts

While liver disease in dogs is serious, it doesn’t have to mean the end of a happy life. With early diagnosis, proper diet, regular vet visits, and lots of love, many dogs live comfortably for years after diagnosis.

💬 Does your dog eat a specialist hepatic diet? What foods or treats have worked well for you? Share your experience with other dog owners in the comments!

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