Understanding Liver Disease in Dogs

Liver disease in our dogs is more common than you might think. The liver is one of the largest and most important organs in your dog’s body, located just underneath the rib cage. It plays a crucial role in digestion, detoxification, storage of sugar (glycogen), breakdown of red blood cells, hormone production, and blood clotting. One of the remarkable things about the liver is its ability to repair itself after injury or disease. In many cases, if the right conditions are provided, the liver can regrow the damaged area.

Signs of Liver Disease in Dogs

The signs of a dog with liver disease can be varied. Initially, you might notice a decreased appetite, lethargy, or depression. As the disease progresses, gastrointestinal signs such as vomiting and diarrhea may appear. Many dogs with liver disease exhibit increased drinking and urination (PU/PD). Advanced stages of liver disease can lead to low protein levels in the blood, causing fluid buildup in the abdomen (ascites) and swelling of the limbs. Jaundice, or yellowing of the skin, gums, and whites of the eyes, is a classic sign of liver disease. Less commonly, dogs may show neurological symptoms like circling, head pressing, ataxia, or even seizures.

Diagnosing Liver Disease in Dogs

Diagnosing liver disease typically starts with blood tests to check for elevated liver enzymes, specifically ALT (alanine aminotransferase) and ALP (alkaline phosphatase). However, elevated liver enzymes alone do not confirm liver disease, as they can also be elevated due to other conditions like pancreatitis, diabetes, Cushing’s disease, or certain medications. Further tests, such as bile acids, ultrasound, or liver biopsy, may be required for a definitive diagnosis.

Causes of Liver Disease in Dogs

Liver disease in dogs can have various causes, including medication reactions, ingestion of toxic substances like moldy compost, viral infections like hepatitis, leptospirosis, congenital conditions like portosystemic shunts (PSS), or copper storage disease in certain breeds like Bedlington Terriers and Westies.

Top 7 Natural Remedies for Liver Disease in Dogs

1. Milk Thistle: The most studied herb for liver disease in dogs, milk thistle contains silymarin, which is anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antifibrotic. It supports liver cell regeneration and enhances detoxification. The typical dose is 100 mg per 10 lbs of body weight once or twice daily.

2. SAM-e (S-Adenosylmethionine): A key antioxidant and regulator of metabolic pathways, SAM-e has been shown to have clear benefits for dogs with liver disease, including antioxidant properties and speeding up liver cell regeneration. The typical dose is 100 mg per 10 lbs of body weight daily.

3. Curcumin (from Turmeric): The bioactive ingredient in turmeric, curcumin is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent that can help reduce liver inflammation and damage. The dose is 250 mg per 50 lbs of body weight daily, given with food and fat for better absorption.

4. Dandelion Root: Traditionally used to support liver health, dandelion root has been shown to be hepatoprotective and aid in liver cell regeneration. It can be given as a decoction, with a typical dog dose of 1/8 cup per 10 lbs of body weight once daily.

5. Burdock Root: Similar to dandelion root, burdock root is hepatoprotective and beneficial for dogs exposed to toxins. It is prepared and given similarly to dandelion root.

6. Vitamin E: A fat-soluble vitamin that concentrates in the liver, vitamin E has been shown to be especially helpful in dogs with liver disease due to its antioxidant properties. The dose is 50 IUs per 10 lbs of body weight daily.

7. Vitamin B12: Many dogs with liver disease have low levels of vitamin B12. Supplementing with vitamin B12 can speed up liver cell healing and improve liver function. The typical dose is 250 micrograms for 20 lbs of body weight daily.

In conclusion, if your dog has liver disease, consider incorporating these natural remedies into their treatment plan, in consultation with your veterinarian. Remember to ensure a proper diagnosis before starting any new supplements.