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Canine liver disease in common in dogs. Some breeds are more susceptible than others, but it is considered one of the top 5 causes of non-accidental death in dogs. The liver is meant to clean the body by removing toxins and waste products and aid in digestion. When the liver is not functioning properly, the toxins and waste can build up, causing dysfunction of other body systems.
Symptoms To Watch For That Might Indicate Liver Disease
The symptoms for canine liver disease can sound a lot like just about any other ailment that your dog might be suffering from:
- Weakness
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Appetite loss
- Weight loss
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain
The way to know for sure if liver disease is the culprit is to get your pooch to the vet for a checkup and diagnosis. The good news is, the sooner you discover the truth, the sooner you can get your dog on a proper diet of Dog Supplements For Liver Disease and that means the better his quality of life will be.
The Bad News And The Good News
The bad news about canine liver disease is that no one really know what causes it. Possible factors include exposure to toxins, genetics, or an infection, but it is still unclear. The good news about liver disease is that the liver has the ability to regenerate; though changing your dog’s diet will not cure the disease, providing the right Dog Supplements For Liver Disease can help slow the progression.
A Good Diet Includes Dog Supplements For Liver Disease
There is no specific diet that fits for all dogs, but there are a few Dog Supplements For Liver Disease that are recommended. The goal of any dietary treatments is four-part:
- To provide good nutrition for energy
- To promote liver regeneration and keep minimum stress on the liver
- To prevent toxins from moving to the brain
- To inhibit further damage from buildup of substances such as copper
When it comes to good nutrition for energy, protein is typically what your pet needs. However, for dogs with liver disease, the amount of protein they should take in can vary. Some stages will require more protein, some stages will recommend less. When protein is limited, many vets will suggest dairy, soy, and eggs rather than meat sources.
What To Avoid In Your Dog’s Food
The most important that should be avoided for any dog with liver disease, regardless of stage, is copper. Copper can be found in rather high amounts in meats such as duck, pork, lamb, organ meats, and salmon. Copper is rather low in meats such as turkey, chicken, white fish, beef, eggs, and cheese. You should also limit your dog’s salt intake to avoid fluid build-up in the abdomen which can occur in dogs with low liver function.
Suggested Dog Supplements For Liver Disease
Some of the best Dog Supplements For Liver Disease include:
- Vitamin B
- Vitamin E
- Zinc
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin K
- Adenosylmethionine (SAMe)
When looking for a specific dog food brand, look for those that are high in these vitamins. They are easy to find in many of the high quality dog food brands. It can be tricky to find a dog food brand without copper, but look for one that has it in very low-amounts, meaning that it is found near the very end of the ingredient list. Also, Copper Amino Acid Complex (or Chelate) is a holistic ingredient that is structured differently, so it is not as harmful.
Dogs Food Brands Specifically Made With Dog Supplements For Liver Disease
When it comes to a dog food brand that will keep your dog healthy, your vet can give you suggestions. It is important that you read the labels to know what brands include Dog Supplements For Liver Disease. Knowing what is in your pet’s food is important for all pet owners, but when it comes to a dog with special dietary needs, reading the label will help you choose one with high vitamins and low copper. Some dog foods that are made specifically for liver health include:
- Hill’s Prescription Diet I/D Liver Care. This dry dog food has added vitamins E & C, reduced sodium, and highly digestible protein sources, so this is a good bet you can feed your dog without having to worry about added supplements.
- Royal Canin Hepatic Dry Food. Low copper and sodium with boosted zinc and vitamin B. An increase in fiber aids in digestion, as does vegetable protein.
- Royal Canin Hepatic Canned Food. The same benefits as the dry version, but in a softer texture.
High Quality Dog Foods That Include Dog Supplements For Liver Disease
Though not branded as dog foods for liver disease, these brands are high in the right vitamins and minerals, low in the wrong ones (such as salt and copper), and are excellent choices for keeping your dog healthy and energetic:
- Wilderness Blue Buffalo Adult Dry Dog Food. Real meat protein, no grains, plenty of vitamins and minerals as well as antioxidants make this dog food a winner.
- The Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Organic Dog Food. Simple ingredients filled with chicken protein, zinc, vitamin E; and no sodium.
- Nature’s Variety Instinct Grain Free Dry. High in vitamins and minerals, including healthy omega-3 fatty acids which can help cleanse the liver, but low in sodium and copper.
- CANIDAE All Life Stages Chicken Meal and Rice. Low on copper and salt, high on chicken and vitamins.
Once again, the importance of reading the label is essential. Even some of the most high-quality dog food brands out there can be high in salt and sodium, often listed in the top 10 ingredients, meaning that it can be too much for your dog with liver disease. Finding the right food with the right Dog Supplements For Liver Disease can take a while, but for your precious pup, the effort will be well worth it.
