Canine Liver Failure Symptoms

Hepatic, or liver, failure occurs when there is a 75 percent or greater loss of function in the liver. More common in canines than in cats, liver failure affects any breed, size or age of dog. There are many causes of liver failure, including infections, medication side effects, biologic toxins, shock and anesthetics. Dogs with liver failure commonly display the same symptoms and should be taken to the veterinarian if this disease is suspected.

  1. Gastrointestinal Problems

    • Dogs with liver failure will often display gastrointestinal issues. According to the Dog Health Guide website, vomiting and diarrhea often occur in dogs with liver failure. Their diarrhea may have blood in it and the stool could also be gray-white and pale in color. In addition, a common sign of liver failure is loss of appetite. Dogs tend not to eat when they do not feel well and can also lose weight as a result.

    Jaundice

    • Jaundice is a very common sign of liver failure in dogs. Jaundice typically makes certain parts of a dog turn yellow. Jaundice is particularly noticeable in the dog's eyes, ears and mucous membranes, such as the gums. The urine could also be orange in color because of the jaundice. According to Dr. Bari Spielman of the Pet Place website, jaundice occurs because of the elevated levels of bilirubin in the dog's body. Bilirubin is a substance that is made from the breakdown of red blood cells.

    Abdominal Distension

    • Dogs with liver failure will often have abdominal distension, or enlarged stomachs. The Dog Health Guide website states that this distension is often due to an enlarged liver. It could also be due to a condition called ascites, in which the abdominal cavity fills with fluid.

    Abnormal Behavior

    • Liver failure can cause a dog to act in ways it normally wouldn't. For instance, Spielman states that dogs with liver failure can become depressed or go into stupors. In addition, affected dogs can also experience seizures and even go into comas.