Dog Liver Support

What is liver disease?

Liver disease is a broad term that refers to an illness that affects a dog’s liver. The hepatic system serves many functions within your dog’s body, including filtering digestive tract blood, clotting the blood, metabolization, detoxifying the body, and more. When a dog experiences a disturbance of any kind, these processes are affected and the dog is diagnosed with liver disease.

What causes liver disease?

• Aging
• Medication
• Trauma
• Infection
• Mold
• Heartworm disease
• Certain herbs and plants
• Leptospirosis
• Fatty diets
• Pancreatic problems
• Diabetes

What symptoms might suggest liver disease in dogs?

• Seizures
• Staggering walk
• Bloody stools or urine
• Weakness
• Ascites (belly fluid buildup)
• Weight loss
• Jaundice (yellow gums, tongue, or eyes)
• Inappetence
• Confusion
• Frequent urination
• Diarrhea or vomiting
• Increased thirst

How is liver disease treated?

When your dog is diagnosed with liver disease, his or her veterinarian will speak to you about treatment options. Treatment will be based upon the cause of the illness, the severity of the disease, and the amount of damage (if any) the dog has suffered. You’ll need to be in close communication with the veterinarian to prevent liver failure and help your dog manage his or her liver disease effectively. In many cases, treatment may include:

• Antibiotics for any liver infections
• Dietary changes
• Surgery to remove cysts or tumors
• Supplements to support recovery and liver health

Is liver damage reversible?

With early diagnosis and treatment, liver disease can often be reversed, and the dog can live a long, healthy, and happy life. However, in severe cases involving cirrhosis, the damage is irreversible. It's important to make an appointment with your veterinarian if you suspect that your dog is suffering from a liver problem.

What is the best liver support supplement for dogs, and how do supplements help?

Allivet carries a variety of liver supplements for dogs. They each work in different ways, so be sure to contact the skilled Allivet pharmacists or reach out to your veterinarian for help choosing the best liver supplement for your dog.

Denamarin comes in a chewable tablet. This supplement for dogs is available in two different strengths - one for cats or dogs up to 12 pounds, and another for dogs of all sizes. With silybin and s-adenosylmethionine, this formula boosts liver function by increases glutathione levels.

Denosyl is a supplement that uses s-adenosylmethionine to increase glutathione levels to support liver health.

SAMeLQ is a chewable liver supplement for dogs that contains a blend of active ingredients, which work to support normal liver function, help remove liver impurities, and deliver antioxidants to support immune response.

Cholodin uses a blend of ingredients to prevent fatty liver syndrome. Ideal for diabetic and/or geriatric dogs, this chewable supplement is helpful for a number of symptoms, such as uncontrollable urination, incontinence, and more.

VetriScience Vetri-Liver Canine Bite-Sized Chews offer a synergistic ingredient blend to support liver detoxification, fat metabolism, antioxidant protection, glutathione and SAMe production, and methylation pathways. This tasty, chewable liver supplement for dogs is a tasty and popular option.

ProHepatic Liver Support Supplement offers a unique ingredient blend that includes silybin. This powerful antioxidant formula supports liver function and protects against damage.

What else can I do to keep my dog’s liver healthy?

In addition to supplements, dogs with existing liver disease or a predisposition to liver problems often benefit from a specific, tailored diet. Your veterinarian can give you tips on ensuring that your pup receives the calories and nutrients their liver needs to stay healthy. Typically, dogs suffering from liver issues will require supplements or food that include supportive and beneficial liver enzymes.

Your veterinarian might also prescribe medication to manage your dog’s liver disease. If your dog is a finicky eater, your vet might suggest a liquid liver supplement for your dog. Some dogs deal with other health concerns, such as kidney disease, in conjunction with liver disease. For these dogs, supplements are a great way to support the kidneys and liver. Your dog’s veterinarian is an excellent resource when it comes to choosing a supplement, food, and medication for your pet’s specific condition. If you find yourself with any questions or concerns about your dog’s medications or supplements, give the Allivet pharmacists a call! Our skilled and licensed pharmacists are available for pet parent consultations, and they are knowledgeable about every product Allivet carries. Your dog’s liver disease diagnosis doesn’t have to be a scary one - just shop at Allivet for everything you need to keep your pup healthy and happy!