Home Canine Liver Diet

Many canine liver problems can be managed if you're willing to make changes in your dog's diet. The liver is designed to eliminate toxins from the body, but disease can affect the organ's ability to filter out harmful substances. In addition, many commercial dogs foods contain chemicals that add bulk and shelf life, but are harmful to your dog. A diet that steers clear of preservatives and additives will benefit your best friend.

  1. Goals and Benefits

    • Fats and proteins are beneficial in combating liver disease and aiding new tissue growth. According to doghealthguide.org, the goals of the home canine liver diet are to provide your dog with adequate energy and nutrients to fulfill basic requirements and prevent undernourishment; limit further liver damage by preventing accumulation of copper and free radicals; support liver cell renewal; and prevent or minimize possible complications, such as abnormal brain function, and the buildup of fluid in your dog's abdomen.

    Proteins

    • The home canine liver diet should consist of 18% to 22% good quality proteins, unless your dog has advanced liver disease that is affecting his brain. Protein foods with amino acid content close to levels your dog requires derive from a combination of lean animal meat, plant protein (soy based and wheat gluten) and dairy. Proteins such as cottage cheese, ricotta cheese and yogurt may be easier for your dog to digest and produce less ammonia than meat products. Eggs and white fish are also excellent protein sources.

    Fats

    • Dogs with liver disease can tolerate more fats, such as Omega 3 fatty acids or salmon oil (not cod liver oil). The diet should consist of 55% to 60% fats.

    Fiber

    • Your dog only needs 3% to 13% carbohydrates in his diet. Soluble and insoluble dietary fiber can help with liver disease. Soluble fiber such as grains, rolled or instant oats, rice and pasta lowers the production and absorption of ammonia and helps the growth of beneficial bacteria. Fiber helps your dog rid itself of bile acids, and helps to normalize transit time for feces, prevent constipation and bind toxins.

    Vitamins/Supplements

    • Avoid any foods or supplements that contain copper, and supply anti-oxidants to help reduce any liver damage. Some important supplements for the home diet include vitamins B, C, E &K, zinc, SAMe, milk thistle, potassium and minimum amounts of sodium.

    Home Cooking

    • Here are two healthy home recipes for your dog: chicken breast with skin, boiled rice, boiled carrots, wheat bran and rapeseed oil; and minced beef with 15% fat, tofu, boiled rice, boiled carrots, wheat bran and rapeseed oil.