Is liver disease common in Border Collies?

Is liver disease common in Border Collies? If you've stared into those intense, intelligent eyes of your Border Collie and wondered about their long-term health, this question might have crossed your mind. While not as prevalent as hip dysplasia or epilepsy in the breed, liver disease does pose a real concern for many owners.​

Border Collies' high energy levels mean they rely on a healthy liver to process nutrients efficiently. But certain genetic factors can stack the odds against them. For instance, copper-associated hepatopathy, a condition where the liver accumulates excessive copper, is more common in this breed. Symptoms often start subtly—slight changes in appetite, reduced energy during playtime, or darker urine. It's easy to dismiss these as temporary quirks, but early detection is key.​

When it comes to prevention, compliance with local pet regulations matters. In many regions, feeding raw diets requires strict adherence to safety guidelines to avoid bacterial contamination that can stress the liver. Some municipalities also regulate the use of flea and tick preventives, as certain chemicals can be hepatotoxic if misused. Always double-check product labels and consult your vet, especially if your dog has a history of liver issues.​

Regular vet visits aren't just a chore—they're a lifeline. Annual blood tests can catch liver enzyme abnormalities years before visible symptoms appear. And don't underestimate the power of a balanced diet. Look for dog foods with moderate protein levels and avoid supplements containing unnecessary herbs or additives that may burden the liver. Remember, what seems like a harmless "superfood" treat could be a problem for a sensitive system.​

If your vet suspects liver disease, diagnostic tools like ultrasounds and biopsies provide clarity. Treatment often involves a combination of prescription diets, medications to reduce inflammation, and lifestyle adjustments. While it's a scary diagnosis, many Border Collies bounce back with proper care. 

Caring for a Border Collie with liver disease is a marathon, not a sprint. It means paying close attention to their water intake, monitoring weight fluctuations, and adjusting exercise routines as needed. But seeing that familiar sparkle return to their eyes makes every extra trip to the pharmacy and every skipped steak dinner worth it. After all, our furry friends rely on us to decode their silent cries for help—and there's no greater reward than keeping them healthy and happy.