What does an enlarged liver mean in a dog?
Quick Answer
An enlarged liver can be a sign of liver disease in a dog. However, puppies have larger livers compared to older dogs, so a larger liver may not be cause for alarm in younger dogs.
Continue ReadingFull Answer
Liver disease is more common in older adult dogs than it is in younger dogs. An enlarged liver can be a sign of a number of different liver diseases. Enlargement in the entire liver usually indicates inflammation or infection. It can also be a symptom of chronic conditions such as hepatitis or chronic liver disease. Enlargement in part of the liver is often a sign of cysts, tumors or hemorrhages in the liver. Liver diseases can also result from toxicity, such as drug toxicity or exposure to toxic plants or molds. It can also result from diabetes or a fatty diet. Although liver enlargement is a common symptom of liver problems, it can also signify illnesses in other areas of the body. For example, it is a symptom of heart disease, heartworms, a diaphragmatic hernia and tumors in other parts of the body.
Liver diseases often carry other symptoms. These include appetite loss, weight loss, increased thirst, frequent urination, bloody urine or stools, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, instability while walking, confusion and a build-up of fluids in the stomach.
Vets can diagnose liver disease through X-rays, blood tests and urine tests. Treatment options may include changes in diet, medication, supplements or surgery.
Learn more about DogsRelated Questions
-
Q:
Why is my dog limping on his front leg?
A: According to VCA Animal Hospitals, when dogs limp on their front legs, it is a common sign of osteochondritis. This medical condition is also referred to a... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What can cause a dog to foam at the mouth?
A: Foam coming from a dog's mouth might be caused by exercise, anxiety, nausea, ingestion of a bad-tasting substance, a dental disease, liver or kidney diseas... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What would cause a dog to scratch his ears and shake his head?
A: When a dog scratches his ears and shakes his head, it is probably a sign of an ear infection, according to WebMD. The infection is usually caused by yeast ... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What does it mean when a dog's tail is between his legs?
A: When a dog's tail hangs lowly or is tucked between his legs, it exhibits nervousness or a sign of submission. Some dogs' tails, such as the greyhound's, na... Full Answer >Filed Under:
