Liver disease in dogs encompasses portosystemic shunts, chronic hepatitis, and hepatic encephalopathy. Each condition requires specific management to maintain welfare and quality of life.
Liver disease causes significant welfare suffering through nausea, neurological signs, and progressive organ failure. Hepatic encephalopathy in particular causes confusion and seizures that are distressing for both dogs and owners. Surgical correction of portosystemic shunts provides dramatic welfare improvement for affected young dogs. Medical management of chronic hepatitis with appropriate diet and supplementation maintains quality of life during disease progression.