Is a Liver Supplement for Dogs Worth It for Your Pup? - Rover.com

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Whether they’re filtering, detoxifying, or metabolizing, livers are a pretty vital organ in humans—and it’s just as important in our dogs. But does your dog need a liver supplement in addition to the nutrition in their food? Read on to learn more about liver supplements for dogs.

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Do You Need Liver Supplements for Dogs?

Your dog needs vitamins and organic compounds for balanced nutrition and normal growth. Dogs (like other animals and people) cannot produce vitamins and minerals naturally, so they have to consume them, and these vitamins and minerals also help with proper organ function, including the liver.

According to Dr. Gary Richter, award-winning vet and member of Rover’s Dog People Panel, “All dogs are of the species Canis familiaris and as such have very similar nutritional needs.” Commercial dog food is specifically formulated to meet those needs. If your dog’s food is labeled “complete and balanced,” it contains all the vitamins and minerals your dog requires.

So, generally speaking, a well-balanced diet that includes a good-quality dog food is going to cover your dog’s liver needs. But, a number of factors can affect proper liver function such as genetics, the aging process, and the side effects of medication, so it’s best to consult a vet to determine the best course of action.

When to Give Liver Supplements to Your Dog

Dogs experiencing liver dysfunction—causes can include liver disease, infections, and cancer—may benefit from liver supplements. Signs to watch out for include (but are not limited to): jaundice, vomiting, weight loss, signs of weakness, confusion, and seizures. Depending on what’s affecting your dog, it may be helpful to add milk thistle, S-adenosyl-methionine (SAMe), and vitamins E and C. Other liver problems may require a vegetarian diet that derives protein from eggs and dairy. Since there is a myriad of possible reasons why dogs experience liver dysfunction, it’s best to consult a veterinarian first and foremost.

Another consideration is whether your dog consumes a homemade, whole food diet (highly recommended by Richter). If so, you may not have full access to the specific vitamins and minerals your pet needs. That’s where additions, such as liver supplements, can also come in handy for your dog.

“It is a good idea to consult with a veterinarian regarding any questions about nutrition,” Richter notes. This is especially important when feeding your dog a homemade diet. Your vet may even refer you to a veterinary nutritionist to determine the best course of vitamins for your dog.

How to Choose Liver Supplements for Dogs

As noted, you should always talk to your veterinarian about what, if any, supplements your pet needs. In general, be aware that ingredients in some herbal supplements can interact with medication. Always keep careful tabs on your dog’s supplement dosage.

Richter has some general guidelines on choosing supplements for dogs:

• Look for brands that have commissioned clinical studies of their products.
• Read labels carefully to ensure quality and safety.
• Look for a lot number on the product. This is a sign that the company uses quality control checks.
• Choose brands with confirmed expertise.
• Be wary of claims that sound too good to be true. Vitamin supplements are just that—supplements. They are not cure-alls or medications.
• Do not give human supplements to dogs, as they may contain ingredients that are harmful to dogs.
• In general, the best options will be available through your veterinarian.

The bottom line about liver supplements for dogs: Talk to your vet first before introducing any nutritional supplement into your pet’s diet.

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Liver Supplements for Dogs

To address a health condition, ask your veterinarian about prescription liver supplements that can help. The over-the-counter supplements below are primarily for maintenance or prevention.

Nutramax Denamarin Tablets

These tablets not only help support a troubled liver, but also support brain health as well with SAMe (S-adenosylmethionine), an ingredient that increases glutathione levels in the liver and acts as a neuroprotector in the brain. It also contains the milk thistle extraction silybin, which promotes oxidative balance in the liver. The above is for medium dogs, but you can find dosages for other breed sizes here.

VetriScience Liver Supplement Chews for Dogs

Chicken liver flavored to help the medicine go down, these chews are comprised of 15 different ingredients that help support liver function. It works in two phases of detoxification: the first phase helps convert toxins in the liver into less damaging matter, and the second converts those substances into water-soluble chemicals that can be more easily expelled by the body.

Maxxidog MaxxiSAMe Supplement for Dogs

Made in the USA, this powder also contains SAMe (S-adenosylmethionine) to assist with liver and brain function. This formula is free of GMOs and artificial flavors, preservatives, colors and binders.

Zesty Paws Liver Support Bites

These grain-free chews maintain the effectiveness of their ingredients with a no-heat process and primarily feature milk thistle and curcuminoids to help the liver detoxify and to support its regular function.

As always, be sure to check with your veterinarian before introducing any new supplements to your dog’s diet. And read on for more articles on how to best balance your dog’s nutrition in a variety of ways.

Further Reading

• How to Give Pills to Your Pet
• All About Vitamin Supplements for Dogs and When to Use Them
• 9 Surprisingly Dangerous Foods for Dogs (Starting with Popcorn)
• Your Complete Guide to Homemade Dog Food
• Decoding Dog Food: Your Guide to What You’re Really Feeding Your Pet
• Got Allergies? Exploring Hypoallergenic Dog Food

SAMe (S-Adenosyl-Methionine) is involved in many biochemical reactions within the liver, including detoxification and antioxidant defense. While SAMe is naturally produced by the body, additional supplementation is often recommended for dogs in need of extra support for liver function. Research shows that SAMe can also support cognitive function by stimulating increased activity of serotonin and dopamine.

Glutathione, sometimes known as "The Master Antioxidant", can be found in every cell of the body. While glutathione has a number of benefits for overall health and wellness, it can be particularly helpful in supporting liver health and function in dogs. Glutathione helps to promote liver cell health and repair, supports healthy detox, and contributes to antioxidant activity in the liver.  

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