The liver is the largest---and highly important---organ in dogs. It filters the blood to remove impurities and toxins, processes food and stores sugar, among other functions. With more than 500 functions, Natural Dog Health Remedies states that it is imperative that the liver is kept healthy and free from disease. Symptoms of canine liver disease include vomiting, lethargy, diarrhea and fever.
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Injury
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If a dog is injured either by a moving vehicle or another traumatic cause, he may develop liver disease. Heatstroke may also cause canine liver disease. Any time the dog's body suffers a sudden blow to the abdominal area, the liver is at risk. A bruise--- or contusion---can cause the liver to become distressed and stop functioning, as well.
Anemia
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The liver needs a healthy blood flow to function properly. When a dog suffers from anemia, the blood does not carry enough oxygen to the liver. This causes the cells to die and the liver to shut down. A dog with anemia shows signs of lethargy, loss of appetite and weight loss.
Hepatitis
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Hepatitis is a condition in which the liver swells. It is generally caused by adenovirus or a herpes virus. Dogs come in contact with the virus by sniffing urine and swapping nasal fluids. Other causes of hepatitis include bacterial infections and fungi. When hepatitis develops, a dog exhibits symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea and weight loss.
Parasites
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Internal parasites can cause liver damage and disease in dogs. Parasites feed and live off of a host, such as a canine. Parasites migrate to the large organs, such as the liver and may cause diminishing liver function. De-worming dogs is essential to preventing and controlling parasites.
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