How to recognize liver problems in a dog?

Liver problems unfortunately occur regularly in dogs. It often starts with some 'vague' symptoms, but can become severe. Why do dogs get liver problems and how can you recognize these conditions? What options are there to keep your dog's liver healthy?

The liver is an important organ. The liver forms the first line of defense your dog has against contaminants and toxic substances that may be present in food or water. When food is absorbed in the intestines, the substances pass through the liver first. Harmful substances are filtered out there so that they do not simply end up in the whole body through the blood. Too many waste products or poisoning can lead to liver damage.

Storage for vitamins and minerals

The liver is not only a filter against unwanted substances, it is also a storage place for minerals and vitamins. Vitamins C, D3, E, and B12 are stored in the liver, among others. A dog's liver produces vitamin C itself from glucose or galactose. Vitamin D3 is also converted in the liver, with the help of vitamin C. With liver problems, these conversions slow down, and there is less storage of vitamin D3 and release of vitamin C. This can lead to deficiencies.

Causes of liver problems

There are four main liver diseases in dogs:

• Jaundice, also known as hepatitis. In this case, the liver is inflamed. This can be caused by viruses, parasites such as worms, bacteria, toxic substances, or an autoimmune disease.
• Liver cancer: A malignant tumor in the liver.
• Fatty liver disease: Fat accumulates in the liver and leads to inflammation and eventually liver failure.
• Liver failure: The liver no longer functions properly. The filtering function decreases and fewer vitamins and minerals are stored.

Worm infections, viruses, bacteria, and toxic substances or spoiled ingredients in food can all cause liver problems. It is therefore important to be alert to this with your dog.

Recognizing liver problems

You do not always immediately see when a dog's liver function is not optimal. The symptoms of liver overload or liver damage often present with some 'vague complaints.' If the situation worsens, clearer symptoms may appear.

Common symptoms of liver problems in dogs include:

• Decreased appetite and weight loss
• Diarrhea, vomiting, and fever
• Increased drinking and urination
• Jaundice (yellow skin and eyes)
• Bloated, swollen abdomen
• Fluid in the abdominal cavity
• Lethargic behavior

If your dog has yellow whites of the eyes instead of white whites of the eyes, or yellowish gums, these are clear indications of liver problems. The skin can also be yellow, but this is not always visible due to the fur.

Further examination

If your dog is sick, you should of course go to the vet. If there are clear symptoms of a liver problem, such as yellow whites of the eyes or weight loss, have the vet check your dog. Your vet will likely do blood tests and possibly an abdominal ultrasound or urine tests. Sometimes the vet takes a sample of the liver, a biopsy.

Addressing liver problems in dogs

The treatment of liver problems depends on the cause and severity of the disease. Some liver problems can be prevented or alleviated by a modified diet or supplements. A change in diet or supplements can support liver function and reduce the risk of liver problems. A specialized diet for dogs with liver problems usually contains fewer proteins and more essential fatty acids. Some supplements also contain antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can protect the liver and replenish deficiencies. For example, vitamin C is an antioxidant and can help fight inflammation. Vitamin E can also support liver function.

Preventing liver problems

To prevent liver problems in your dog, you can do a few things:

• Provide a healthy diet
• Ensure an adequate intake of vitamin E and vitamin C in your dog's diet
• Avoid contact with toxic plants, chemicals, dirty water, and medications
• Detox your dog twice a year

Detox for dogs?

A detox is a treatment with an herbal extract that you give your dog for a week. The extract usually contains turmeric, fennel, artichoke, boldo, and milk thistle. Various scientific studies show that these herbs - in the right dosage - support the cleansing function of the liver. They also promote better fat digestion (bile function) and proper kidney function. Note: Only healthy dogs should undergo a detox. It takes quite a bit of energy to eliminate all the waste products produced during a detox. Therefore, never give a detox to a sick dog. If your dog has just been dewormed, wait a few weeks before detoxing. If in doubt, contact us to discuss what is wise. For healthy dogs, we recommend detoxing twice a year: in spring and autumn.