Enlarged Liver in Dogs

The condition of enlarged liver is referred to as hepatomegaly. Enlarged liver is in, itself, a symptom of different liver diseases like liver cancer or liver injury. If not treated, this disease can cause liver failure and even prove fatal. Any kind of liver disease is a serious dog health problem and can make his life miserable; hence, it is our duty to take proper care of the dog and keep him away from all kind of diseases. Let's take a look at the symptoms and causes of enlarged liver in dogs.

There are many functions of liver, like it helps in detoxifying the blood, removal of waste, bile production which assists in digestion, supplying nutrients, fighting diseases, providing energy and also performing functions which help in the growth of the dog. From this, it is clear, that liver forms an important part in the dog's body and hence, should be given proper care. If you notice that your dog is suffering from liver disease, then it is a important, to take him to the veterinarian as soon as possible, in order to avoid further damage.

Symptoms of Enlarged Liver in Dogs
Jaundice causes liver malfunction. Enlarged liver in dogs, on the other hand, is an indication of liver disease. Along with jaundice, the other commonly observed symptoms are changes in the dog's behavior, diarrhea, vomiting and white stool. The dog urinating rarely, is also a symptom of enlarged liver. Loss of appetite in dogs is also observed, which can lead to massive weight loss, thus affecting your dog's health.

What Causes Enlarged Liver in Dogs?
There are various reasons which give rise to enlarged liver in dogs. One of the reasons that can cause enlarged liver is heartworms. They are a kind of dog worms, that not only affect the heart of the dog, but also affect its liver and cause its enlargement. Read more on:

• Heartworms in Dogs
• Treatment for Ringworms in Dogs

Presence of poisonous substances in the environment can also give rise to enlarged liver. Substances like arsenic, insecticides, tetrachloride, ragwort, arsenic, etc, can have a harmful effect on the dog's liver. If, in the recent past, the dog has had an abdominal injury, then will be prone to suffer from enlarged liver. Different dog illnesses like diabetes and encephalopathy can also cause enlarged liver. In some dogs, it can be a genetic defect. like in Skye terriers, Dobermans, Bedlington terriers, etc. Read more on: elevated liver enzymes in dogs.

Treatment of Enlarged Liver in Dogs
The first thing to do is take the dog to the veterinarian as soon as possible. He will subject the dog to different physical examinations to know the actual cause, in order to treat the dog's enlarged liver. You can feed your dog with healthy and nutritious dog food or the food prescribed by the veterinarian. Along with this, make sure that your dog drinks enough water. Try to keep him away from harmful substances and gases and make sure that he takes the required rest. This will help in alleviating the condition to great extent.

These loyal creatures are the best friend's of human beings and if you have them as pets, make sure that you take proper care of your dog. If looked after well, I am sure your pet will be able to stay away from the causes of enlarged liver in dogs. Read more on: liver failure in dogs.