human food good for dogs liver
4 Superfoods for Liver Health in Dogs
Here at My Pet Nutritionist we describe the liver as the powerhouse, simply because it has so many jobs. For this reason, when its feeling a little under the weather, the ramifications can be widespread.
What is it they say, prevention is better than cure? With this in mind, are there foods we can include in our pets diet that can support liver health?
Of course!
Certain wholefoods contain a range of nutrients which can support our dogs whole health, so here are a few of our favourite foods to support liver health.
1) Blueberries
Almost all chronic liver disease is under the background of elevated oxidative stress. This occurs when the number of free radicals found in the body outweighs its ability to cope with them. Antioxidants neutralise free radicals.
This versatile berry contains anthocyanins which function as antioxidants which been seen to protect the liver from oxidative stress. Studies have found that in the livers of rats, such protective compounds found in fruits like blueberries slowed the development of scar tissue and may be useful in the prevention of hepatic fibrosis.
Other fruits rich in antioxidants include:
- Cranberries
- Raspberries
- Strawberries
- Mango,
- Watermelon
- Blackberries
2) Leafy Green Vegetables (kale, spinach etc.)
Not only does this family of vegetables provide a wide range of nutrients and health benefits, but they also have the added ability of increasing the livers natural detoxification enzymes.
Detoxification is carried out by a range of mechanisms, and this comes in particularly handy if one pathway is overwhelmed, another can pick up the slack.
Detoxification falls into three phases.
The first two phases are concerned with breaking down the toxin in the body, and phase three is concerned with excreting it. For us to manage ours and our dogs toxic load, all three phases need to be working optimally.
Phases I and II are particularly nutrient demanding, and it goes without saying that the higher the burden on the phases (the more toxins our dogs are exposed to), the higher the nutrient requirement again.
Sufficient levels of key vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, C, E, B1, B2, B3 and iron, along with cysteine, are essential and this is where our trusty greens come in.
In leafy greens you get substantial amounts of vitamins such as A, C, K, and many of the Bs including folate (B9), plus minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, and potassium. Youll also find lots of fibre made up of complex carbohydrates, and antioxidant phytonutrients such as beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin.
Low Fat Venison
3) Fatty Fish (mackerel, tuna, sardines etc.)
Consuming fatty fish that are high in omega-3 fatty acids regularly can help modulate inflammation and it is this mechanism that is crucial to so many health issues in both us and our dogs.
Inflammation is a normal response of the body to protect tissues from infection, injury, or disease. The inflammatory response begins with the production and release of chemical agents by cells in the infected, injured, or diseased tissue.
These agents cause redness, swelling, pain, heat, and loss of function. Inflamed tissues generate additional signals that recruit leukocytes to the site of inflammation. Leukocytes destroy any infective or injurious agent and remove cellular debris from damaged tissue. This inflammatory response usually promotes healing but, if uncontrolled, may become harmful.
Acute inflammation typically lasts only a few days. If a wound gets hot, turns red, hurts, and swells, we recognize that inflammation is at work. In this instance, inflammation is a beneficial process, serving to immobilize the area of injury as the rest of the immune system mobilizes to heal.
In contrast, chronic inflammation lasts weeks, months or even indefinitely and causes tissue damage, and this too can occur in the liver.
In chronic inflammation, the inflammation becomes the problem rather than the solution. Chronically inflamed tissues continue to generate signals that request help from leukocytes in the bloodstream. When leukocytes reach the tissue, they bring inflammation to the party. This chronic inflammatory response can break down healthy tissue in a misdirected attempt at repair and healing.
Inflammation and Fatty Acids
Arachidonic acid is an omega-6 acid that is involved in the synthesis of eicosanoids. Eicosanoids play an important role in the body, they modulate many processes including reproduction, blood pressure, haemostasis and of course inflammation. The issue occurs when there are too many. This is why we are particularly interested in balancing out our omega 6 and omega 3 fatty acids. Many commercial foods come in higher on the omega 6 front, and so we really need to be adding some wonderful omega 3s to the bowl (in the form of oily fish).
Not only this, but omega-3 fatty acids inhibit an enzyme called cyclooxygenase (COX), which produces the prostaglandin hormones that spark inflammation. The action is similar to what happens when NSAIDs are ingested which also disrupts the COX-2 signalling pathway, reducing inflammation.
The inclusion of omega 3s in your dogs diets is beneficial to whole body health, not just liver health.
Essential Fats for My Dogs Diet4) Eggs
Eggs are sources of choline, and this nutrient is particularly useful to the liver. Most choline is metabolized in the liver where it is converted into phosphatidylcholine, which assists in building fat-carrying proteins and breaking down cholesterol.
True choline deficiencies have regularly been linked to liver disease.
Whilst eggs are a good source, you will also find choline in beef, beef liver, chicken, fish, shiitake mushrooms, and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and brussels sprouts.
Low Copper
If you would like to learn more about the nutrients to support liver health in your dog, check out our blog here:
Foods to Feed in Liver DiseaseAnd if you would like to learn more about conditions that can affect your dogs liver, check out our blog here:
Natural Guide to Liver DiseaseIf you are concerned about your dogs health and would like to speak with us, then please check out our services.
Thanks for reading,
MPN Team
12 Best Dog Foods for Liver Disease 2023 (Premium & Budget)
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Last Updated on April 22, 2023
The right dog food can help your pet fight diseases and lead a long, healthy life. When it comes to liver problems, managing your dogs diet is no exception.
Specific diets can ward off life-threatening liver failure and help reduce your dogs pain. It can even help the liver repair itself.
Take a look at some of the best foods for dogs with liver disease:
Top 5 Picks for Best Dog Food for Liver Disease
| Dog Food for Liver Disease | Our Rating | |
| Best Overall Dog Food for Liver Disease | Hills Prescription Diet l/d Liver Care Original Canned Dog Food
| 4.8 |
| Best Budget Dog Food for Liver Disease | CANIDAE All Life Stages Multi-Protein Formula Dry Dog Food (Chicken, Turkey, Lamb, and Fish)
| 4.6 |
| Best Puppy Food for Liver Disease | The Honest Kitchen Whole Grain Turkey Recipe Dehydrated Dog Food
| 4.6 |
| Best Adult Dog Food for Liver Disease | Blue Buffalo Wilderness Healthy Weight Chicken Recipe Adult Large Breed Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
| 4.6 |
| Best Senior Dog Food for Liver Disease | Royal Canin Hepatic Formula Vet Diet Dog Food
| 4.6 |
Best Dog Food for Liver Disease (by Life Stage)
The proper diet is vital for controlling liver disease symptoms and helping your dogs liver restore itself.
Best Puppy Food for Liver Disease
Does your small puppy already have symptoms of liver disease? They can still lead a long and healthy life with proper management.
Fortunately, theres a dog food suited for puppies who are showing signs of liver disease.
1. The Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Dog Food Whole Grain Turkey Recipe
Rating: 4.6Top Ingredients: Dehydrated Turkey, Organic Oats, Dehydrated PotatoesType: Dehydrated
Natural and straightforward dehydrated dog food, this recipe is packed full of highly digestible proteins, such as cage-free turkey. Just add water to create delicious food suitable for all life stages.
In addition, this food is made with Zinc and Vitamin E, which are designed to boost liver function.
Pros:
- Free of soy, wheat, corn, preservatives, GMO, and by-products
- Minimally processed food using whole-food, natural ingredients from the USA
Cons:
- Some pet owners did not care for the mushy consistency the dehydrated process creates
CHECK PRICE HERE
Best Adult Dog Food for Liver Disease
A variety of commercial diets have been created specifically to care for dogs with liver disease. Here are some of the best options available:
2. Hills Prescription Diet Dog Food Liver Care
Rating: 4.8Top Ingredients: Water, Rice, Chicken FatType: Wet
This prescription diet comes from the leader of science diets for dogs Hills. It has been formulated by veterinarians and nutritionists to offer the right ingredients for dogs with liver problems.
It contains all essential vitamins and minerals with highly digestible proteins and low sodium levels.
Pros:
- Helps the liver to regenerate through the inclusion of high-quality protein
- Contains high levels of L-carnitine and L-arginine for fat metabolism, as well as Vitamin E and C for cell oxidation and a healthy immune system
Cons:
- Its difficult to find and often only stocked by specific vets. Also, you need vet authorization to buy this food online.
- Expensive
CHECK PRICE HERE
3. CANIDAE All Life Stages Multi-Protein Formula Dry Dog Food (Chicken, Turkey, Lamb, and Fish)
Rating: 4.5Top Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Lamb MealType: Dry
Multi-protein dry dog food formula that offers a balanced, delicious meal for your dog. This dog food features premium ingredients, such as chicken, turkey, and lamb, to build a robust immune system and fight disease.
This nutritionally-dense food is also free of common allergens to support digestion.
Pros:
- Vet-formulated recipe suitable for dogs of all breeds, sizes, and ages
- Includes HealthPLUS Solutions which is a trio of probiotics, antioxidants, and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids
Cons:
- Some dog owners said this food was too crumbly
CHECK PRICE HERE
4. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Dry Dog Food Adult Large Breed Grain-Free Chicken Recipe
Rating: 4.6Top Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Pea ProteinType: Dry
A unique raw blend of natural ingredients designed to mimic the diet of your pups wild ancestors. This grain-free recipe features real chicken as the main ingredient and is free of artificial flavors, preservatives, and by-products.
Blue Buffalo is also well-known for its LifeSource Bits blend of essential minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants for complete body nutrition.
Pros:
- Contains excellent sources of vitamin B6, phosphorus, niacin, and selenium
- Designed with a controlled amount of fat calories for helping dogs maintain a healthy weight
Cons:
- Contains high levels of peas, which is linked to canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM)
CHECK PRICE HERE
5. Purina Pro Plan Shredded Blend Adult Dry Dog Food Lamb & Rice Formula
Rating: 4.4Top Ingredients: Lamb, Rice, Poultry By-product MealType: Dry
This dry dog food has a rich nutrient profile featuring essential fatty acids and lamb as the main ingredient.
Its formulated with prebiotic fiber and live probiotics and a palatable combination of meaty shreds and dry kibble, which aids in digestion and puts less stress on the liver.
Pros:
- Features optimal levels of protein and fat for maintaining an ideal body condition
- Contains vitamin A and linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid, for healthy skin and coat
Cons:
- Some pet owners complained their dogs suffered from diarrhea after eating this dog food
CHECK PRICE HERE
6. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Dry Dog Food Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Rating: 4.4Top Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown RiceType: Dry
A holistic, healthy dry dog food with a formula that includes real ingredients such as chicken, garden veggies, whole grains, and fruits.
This diet contains Blue Buffalos LifeSource Bits, a blend of nutrients that have been enhanced with a super seven package of antioxidant-rich components for improved health.
Pros:
- Includes calcium, phosphorus, and essential vitamins for healthy bones and teeth and Glucosamine for joint health
- Contains no corn, wheat, soy, or by-product meals
Cons:
- Some dogs had terrible flatulence on this diet
CHECK PRICE HERE
7. Forza10 Nutraceutic Sensitive Digestion Grain-Free Recipe
Rating: 4.4Top Ingredients: Anchovy Meal, Peas, Fava BeansType: Dry
Created for dogs with sensitive stomachs and digestion issues by a brand founded by an Italian vet. This diet has been designed to assist with liver disease and improve your pups overall health and well-being.
This food features wild-caught anchovy meal as the top ingredient, offering plenty of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
Pros:
- Made from raw, uncontaminated materials for the speedy relief of any symptoms
- Limited-ingredient, grain-free recipe from a brand that is part of the I.N.P. Integrated Nutritional Program
Cons:
- The kibble is large so may not be well-suited to smaller breeds
CHECK PRICE HERE
8. Halo Vegan Dry Dog Food
Rating: 4Top Ingredients: Chickpeas, Green Peas, Pearled BarleyType: Dry
Plant-based dog food that offers a great alternative to traditional meat-based diets for sensitive doggies. This digestible, all-natural diet is both grain and GMO-free with no additional preservatives or artificial flavors.
Pros:
- A great budget alternative to veterinary diets for dogs with liver problems
- Includes sustainably sourced ingredients like green peas, wholesome grains, and chickpeas
Cons:
- This vegan diet may need to be supplemented by other additives
CHECK PRICE HERE
9. Wellness Complete Health Adult Dry Dog Food (Deboned Chicken & Oatmeal)
Rating: 4.4Top Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, OatmealType: Dry
Natural dry dog food with carefully chosen ingredients such as wholesome proteins and grains for whole-body health. Its designed to optimize energy levels and build a robust immune system.
Pros:
- Supported by antioxidants, omega fatty acids, probiotics, glucosamine, and taurine
- Developed without any GMOs, meat by-products, fillers, or artificial preservatives
Cons:
- Some pet owners complained their dogs had an upset stomach on this diet
CHECK PRICE HERE
10. Castor & Pollux Grain Free Organix
Rating: 4.6Top Ingredients: Organic Chicken, Organic Chicken Meal, Organic Sweet PotatoesType: Dry
Organic nutrition featuring a delicious chicken and sweet potato-based recipe. This food also contains a blend of superfoods and omega-6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat, such as flaxseed and blueberries.
Pros:
- Cooked in an organically-certified USA kitchen
- Contains no artificial preservatives, flavors, colors, corn, wheat, soy, chickpeas, or lentils
Cons:
CHECK PRICE HERE
Best Senior Dog Food for Liver Disease
As your dog progresses into the advanced stages of its life, it could show some more severe symptoms of liver failure.
Help make your senior dogs life more comfortable with an easy-to-digest food that gives them the nutrients they need.
11. Royal Canin Hepatic Formula Vet Diet Dog Food
Rating: 4.6Top Ingredients: Brewers Rice, Corn, Brown RiceType: Dry
The Royal Canin Hepatic Formula is a veterinary diet with high fiber levels, increased zinc, restricted copper, and the optimal nutrients to keep your dogs liver in top shape.
This crunchy kibble only includes ingredients proven to keep your dogs liver healthy while also being extremely palatable for sick pups. This nutrient-rich canine hepatic diet is also designed to boost the energy levels of your dog.
Pros:
- Contains a unique blend of antioxidants for building a healthy immune system
- Includes highly digestible vegetable proteins for supporting liver function
Cons:
- You will need authorization from a vet to buy this food online
CHECK PRICE HERE
12. Instinct Original Grain-Free Recipe with Real Chicken Freeze-Dried Raw Coated
Rating: 4.2Top Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, PeasType: Dry
Grain-free dry kibble that features all-natural, high-quality ingredients, including real cage-free chicken as the first ingredient. This animal-protein-rich formula is highly digestible, thus releasing any unnecessary strain on the liver.
The raw nutrition also offers plenty of wholesome vegetables, with guaranteed probiotics, natural omegas, and antioxidants.
Pros:
- Doesnt contain any grain, potato, corn, wheat, soy, by-product meal, artificial colors, or preservatives
Cons:
- Gave some dogs an upset stomach and runny stool
CHECK PRICE HERE
What Causes Liver Disease in Dogs?
Liver disease is often caused by a viral infection known as canine hepatitis. Hepatitis and other conditions can increase enzymes in the liver, leading to swelling or inflammation.
Liver enzymes can also build up due to fats, a condition known as fatty liver disease.
On the other hand, the bacterial infection Leptospirosis also causes liver disease in dogs and is transmitted through soil or water that contains urine from an infected individual.
Liver disease is often associated with inflammation which can be brought on by cancer, parasites, or fungal infection.
Some other common causes of liver disease include abdominal trauma, hemolytic anemia, exposure to toxins, and immune disorders. Also, some inherited traits and genetics can lead to liver disease.
What are the Common Signs and Symptoms of Liver Disease for Dogs?
The common symptoms of liver disease for dogs include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, lethargy, and sometimes abdominal pain.
Often, dogs in the early stages of the disease do not exhibit any symptoms as the liver can remain functional even at a limited capacity. That said, identifying the disease early can help to prolong the life of your dog.
The diseases more apparent symptoms include jaundice, orange urine, a light grey or bloody stool, intense itching, swelling, and memory and concentration issues.
With jaundice being one of the most recognizable liver disease symptoms, its essential to watch out for this with your dog. Signs of jaundice include a yellow tongue, eyes, or mucous membranes.
Liver disease can eventually lead to fatal liver failure. Symptoms of the end stages of liver failure include swelling of the legs and abdomen, neurological issues like circling and seizures, and easy bruising and bleeding.
During these late liver disease stages, your dog may also suffer from hepatic encephalopathy, a brain disease related to liver failure, swelling on the gallbladder, and necrosis or tissue death.
Buyers Guide on Dog Foods for Dogs with Liver Disease
The right diet can make a world of difference when it comes to the level of enzymes in your pups liver. So examining what food you give your dog is the first step when it comes to fighting liver disease.
Why is having a healthy diet so important for dogs with liver disorders?
Liver disease and digestive problems are intrinsically linked, and thus diet plays a vital role in your dogs healthy functioning.
The liver helps with digestion through bile production while helping remove wastes and toxins from the body.
However, if compromised through disease, the liver not only harms itself, but the enzymes leak out of the liver cells into the bloodstream and can also stop the proper function of other organs, like the brain and the heart.
Unfortunately, it can decrease your dogs appetite, so picking delicious and enticing food will be critical.
You will also want to ensure your pets diet includes the proper balance of nutrients and that it is free of unnatural fillers and harmful chemicals.
What types of dog food diet is good for your dogs liver?
There are various diets to choose from for your dog, including prescription diets, homemade dog food, commercial dog food, and combination diets.
A prescription diet is a specialized diet that your vet has prescribed. Vets and scientists have created these foods to fight specific ailments, and typically you will need a letter of authorization from your vet to buy this type of food.
You can also try and make your own dog food with a homemade diet. In this case, its crucial to work with a dog nutritionist who can advise you on what ingredients and amounts of each to include to ensure your dog is obtaining the correct nutrients.
Like those listed above, commercial dog foods provide well-balanced levels of nutrients and are more readily available and cheaper than prescription options. Finally, combination diets include a variety of all of the above.
What things do you need to look for in the best dog foods for liver disease?
The wrong ingredients can increase the livers toxicity levels, which can worsen your dogs condition. Avoid a diet high in sodium and copper.
Elevated levels of these two ingredients can put unnecessary stress on the liver, while copper poisoning can cause severe issues in dogs that already have liver issues.
Some foods that contain high copper content include salmon, pork, and duck. Liver and organ meats should also be avoided.
Your dogs diet should also contain moderate levels of protein. While a high-protein content is not a problem per se, the ammonia content in protein can cause issues in dogs with liver problems.
This is why you might find some vets recommending a low-protein diet for dogs with liver issues.
The protein content of your dogs diet should be supplied by high-quality proteins such as real chicken, turkey, lamb, or white fish.
These high-quality protein sources will have the least amount of ammonia but still contain essential amino acids. In addition, dairy products such as yogurt, ricotta, cottage cheese, and goat cheese are also excellent protein sources.
Dogs suffering from liver health concerns should also not be fed a diet high in reduced sugars or refined carbohydrates.
On the other hand, complex carbs with high levels of soluble fiber will help absorb ammonia and reduce nitrogenous waste. Foods like oatmeal, white rice, barley, and pumpkin are beneficial sources of fiber.
Also, it is best to look for food with low to moderate levels of fat as the breakdown of fat can be a challenge for dogs with liver disease.
Fats are, however, essential for getting your dog calories and boosting energy levels, so dont try and avoid them altogether.
The following supplements will be fantastic additions to your dogs healthy diet:
- Vitamin B
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin K
- Adenosylmethionine (SAMe)
- Calcium
- L-Arginine
- L-Carnitine
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Zinc
Some of these supplements can be found in naturally occurring ingredients like fish oil, coconut oil, figs, watermelon, and blueberries.
To grain or not to grain: Is a grain-free diet option better for dogs with hepatic disease?
Whether or not to include grains in your dogs diet will depend on your dogs predisposition to digesting grains.
For example, if your dog has a sensitive stomach, then grain-free food may be the best option as it wont put any further stress on the liver or digestive system.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do you restrict sodium intake if your dog is diagnosed with liver disease?
The best way to restrict sodium in your pets diet is to cut out salt altogether.
Look out for any ingredients that naturally contain sodium and cut these foods out of your dogs diet, including administering any treats or making homemade food.
When choosing a kibble for your dog, be sure to check the ingredients and opt for one that has low or no sodium.
What treatment should you give your dog with liver disease?
The liver is one of those organs that can repair and regenerate. That doesnt mean that liver disease shouldnt be taken seriously.
The right diet, combined with medication prescribed by your vet, can assist in repairing your dogs liver and improving function.
You can prevent potentially fatal complications by getting early treatment for your pet before the toxins in the liver start to affect their other organs.
In addition to changing your dogs diet to a liver-friendly option, you can try to alter their feeding schedule.
Your dog can be fed smaller amounts throughout the day rather than the regular two-meal schedule. This more regular feeding can help improve digestion and, in turn, liver function.
Seek Out Veterinary Advice When Choosing Dog Food for Liver Disease
We highly recommend Hills Prescription l/d Liver Care Formula if your dog suffers from liver disease. It offers balanced nutrition for your pup to help support your dogs liver function during its healing process.
For pup owners on a tight budget, we recommend CANIDAE All Life Stages Multi-protein Formula. Its more affordable compared to Hills Prescription Diet but still offers the same balanced nutrition for your dog.
It also contains probiotics for easier digestion which means less stress on your dogs liver.
Liver disease is a severe issue that cannot be treated with a change of diet alone.
If you suspect your dog may be suffering from liver health issues, consult a veterinarian who will be able to provide you with proper advice and treatment when it comes to caring for your precious pooch.
Also, speak with your vet before introducing any dietary changes to your dog.
Do you have dog food that your pet loves? Let us know in the comments below.
Cess Gamas( Head of Content Marketing and Editor )Cess is the Head of Content Writing at K9 Web and a passionate dog care expert with over 5 years of experience in the Pet Industry. With a background in animal science, dog training, and behavior consulting, her hands-on experience and extensive knowledge make her a trusted source for dog owners.
When not writing or leading the K9 Web content team, Cess can be found volunteering at local shelters and participating in dog-related events.
