Liver Disease in Dogs: Symptoms and Treatments

When a dog starts acting differently, it's common to think of digestive problems or some temporary pain.

But subtle changes in appetite, mood, or disposition may be linked to the liver—an organ essential for the body's balance.

To the liver diseases in dogs They usually appear silently and, when symptoms appear, the condition may already be advanced.

Therefore, recognizing the early signs and understanding how to respond can make all the difference. Learn about the most common symptoms, possible causes, and recommended treatments to protect your dog's health.

Symptoms that deserve attention

The symptoms of liver disease in dogs vary greatly. It all depends on the cause, the length of time it has progressed, and the animal's age.

But there are some signs that appear frequently. Jaundice, for example, is one of them.

It leaves the skin, eyes, and gums with a yellowish hue. This happens because the liver can't properly process bilirubin, a substance that, in excess, accumulates in the body.

Another common symptom is abdominal distension. When the liver enlarges or fluid accumulates in the abdomen, the owner notices that the dog's belly appears more swollen.

In some cases, the animal may exhibit weakness, weight loss, pale stools, or dark urine. The mucous membranes may become pale, and the dog may show pain when the abdomen is touched.

Behavior also changes. Dogs with liver disease may become more apathetic, less interested in playing, and even exhibit neurological changes. In more advanced stages, signs such as disorientation, staggering gait, or seizures may appear.

These symptoms indicate that toxins, which would normally be filtered by the liver, are accumulating and affecting the nervous system.

Read also: Common Cat Diseases and How to Prevent Them

Most common causes of liver disease

There are several possible causes of liver disease in dogs. One of the most common is hepatitis, which can be viral, bacterial, or caused by poisoning.

Some medications, inappropriate foods or chemicals also directly affect the liver.

Toxic plants, cleaning products, and even accidentally consuming foods like chocolate or onions can trigger an inflammatory process.

Other cases are linked to autoimmune diseases, in which the dog's own immune system attacks the liver.

There are also genetic diseases, such as copper storage disease, which affects certain breeds more specifically. Natural aging also contributes.

Older dogs can develop liver changes due to cellular degeneration, especially when there is no regular veterinary monitoring.

Obesity is another contributing factor. Fat accumulation in the liver compromises its function and can lead to chronic inflammation.

Therefore, maintaining a healthy weight and a balanced diet is essential for prevention.

Diagnosis and important exams

Detecting liver disease at an early stage makes all the difference. The sooner the problem is identified, the better the chances of controlling its progression.

Diagnosis usually begins with a detailed clinical examination, where the veterinarian evaluates the physical signs, the animal's habits, and possible risk factors.

Blood tests are essential. They indicate changes in liver enzymes, protein production, and bilirubin levels.

They also help to assess coagulation, as the liver participates in the production of factors that control this process.

Imaging tests, such as ultrasound or X-rays, allow us to observe the size and structure of the liver, as well as check for the presence of nodules, inflammation or fluid accumulation.

In more complex cases, a liver biopsy may be necessary.

This procedure allows direct analysis of liver tissue and a precise understanding of the underlying cause. Although invasive, it provides valuable information for more effective treatment.

Treatment options and disease management

Treatment depends directly on the identified cause. If the problem is an infection, antibiotics or antivirals may be indicated.

In cases of poisoning, the focus is to eliminate the toxic substance and protect the liver with specific medications.

When the disease is chronic or degenerative, the goal becomes controlling symptoms and preserving liver function for as long as possible.

Nutrition is an essential part of treatment. Specific diets for dogs with liver disease help reduce the liver's workload.

They typically contain high-quality protein, low copper content, and a good balance of vitamins and minerals. Your veterinarian can recommend therapeutic foods or prepare a personalized feeding plan.

Some medications directly act on liver cell regeneration. Others control associated symptoms, such as nausea, fluid retention, or neurological changes.

In more advanced cases, monitoring needs to be more frequent, with constant adjustments to the animal's treatment and lifestyle.

Taking care of your liver is taking care of your life

Liver disease in dogs requires constant attention, but with the right care, a diagnosis doesn't have to be a death sentence.

The liver is an organ with a great capacity for regeneration, and many conditions can be stabilized with appropriate treatment, a balanced diet, and veterinary monitoring.

More than identifying symptoms, the important thing is to act quickly and responsibly.

Small changes in a dog's behavior are reason enough to seek guidance. And when care is accompanied by affection, the animal feels it. It responds. It improves.

Taking care of your liver is also a way to ensure a better quality of life, more time together, and more shared moments.

Because when your dog's health is balanced, the entire environment transforms. And nothing is more valuable than that.

Questions About Liver Disease in Dogs

Are liver diseases curable?
Some do, especially when treated early. Others can be controlled for many years with proper monitoring.

Do dogs with liver disease feel pain?
They experience discomfort, especially when there is inflammation or fluid accumulation in the abdomen. In advanced cases, the pain can be more intense.

Is it possible to prevent liver disease?
Yes. With a balanced diet, regular checkups, and avoiding contact with toxic substances, the chances of developing liver problems decrease.

Which breeds are most predisposed?
Some breeds, such as Labradors, Doberman Pinschers, and Bedlington Terriers, may have a genetic predisposition to liver disease. However, any dog can be affected.

Does diet influence liver health?
Absolutely. Diets high in fat or containing toxic ingredients overload the liver. Choosing the right food and treats is essential to preventing disease.