How to treat liver failure in dogs?

Watching your dog struggle with liver failure is heartbreaking. Their lethargy, loss of appetite, or sudden changes in behavior can leave you feeling helpless, but there are steps you can take to support them—with your vet leading the way.​

The first and most critical move is to get your dog to a vet as soon as you notice symptoms. Liver failure isn’t something to guess about; vets use blood tests, ultrasounds, or even biopsies to assess how severe the damage is and find the root cause, whether it’s a toxin, infection, or a genetic condition. This diagnosis guides the treatment plan, which might include medications to reduce inflammation, fight infections, or remove toxins from the bloodstream. Never try to treat liver failure in dogs on your own—some home remedies can make things worse, and certain drugs need precise dosing to avoid harm.​

Fluid therapy is often a cornerstone of treatment. IV fluids help correct dehydration, balance electrolytes, and support the liver’s ability to filter waste. Your vet might also add nutrients like B vitamins to the fluids, as the liver plays a key role in processing these, and deficiencies are common in dogs with liver issues. In severe cases, they may recommend specialized treatments like plasma transfusions to replace proteins the liver isn’t making enough of.​

Diet changes are vital for dogs with liver failure. Most vets suggest a low - protein, low - copper diet to ease the liver’s workload—too much protein or copper can build up and cause further damage. Look for commercial diets formulated specifically for liver support; these are balanced to provide essential nutrients without straining the organ. Avoid giving treats or table scraps, even if your dog begs—many common foods, like chocolate or onions, are toxic and can worsen liver failure.​

Monitoring your dog closely at home is part of the recovery process. Keep track of their appetite, energy levels, and bathroom habits to share with your vet—small changes can signal progress or setbacks. Follow all medication schedules exactly, and don’t skip follow - up appointments. These check - ins let your vet adjust the treatment plan as needed, which is crucial since recovery can be slow and unpredictable.​

Supporting a dog with liver failure takes time and patience, but many pups respond well to treatment when caught early. Work closely with your vet, stick to the diet and medication plan, and give your dog plenty of gentle love. Seeing them perk up, even a little, is a sign you’re on the right track. Remember, every dog’s journey is different, but with the right care, many can enjoy a better quality of life for months or even years.