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Unfortunately, for dogs diagnosed with liver disease, there are no specific treatments available.
The only way to treat liver disease in dogs is to adjust their diet and ensure they're always well-hydrated.
This homemade dog food for liver disease recipe, which I show you in the video above and discuss later in this article, is specifically designed to help with the condition.
Like in humans, the canine liver is a vital organ involved in almost every process and is directly responsible for many body functions.
It also plays a significant role in a dog's immune system and ability to fight off diseases. Dogs with liver disease are at more risk of contracting many other illnesses, which is why it's essential to treat them immediately.
Having your dog diagnosed with liver disease means that you will need to change this diet.
Even though some commercial dog food brands are marketed for liver disease, many vets recommend making homemade dog food.
Ultimately, the severity of your dog's condition will dictate the specific nutritional requirements.
Before you try this homemade dog food recipe for liver disease, you must speak with your veterinarian.
Do not switch your dog to a homemade diet until then. Any changes to what your dog eats should be made with extra care and caution regarding canine liver disease.
This condition is susceptible. If your dog receives too much or too little of a specific nutrient, it could accelerate the progression of his liver disease.
Your veterinarian may even refer you to a canine nutritionist for testing and a more detailed nutritional plan, so check with them beforehand.
If your dog has a sensitive stomach, this condition needs careful monitoring.
Now, if you've already spoken with your vet about your dog's condition and you're looking for a homemade dog food recipe for liver disease, this one may be right for your Fido.
Note: We created this homemade dog food recipe for a dog weighing about 50 pounds.
MORE RECIPES HERE: Homemade Dog Food & Treats Recipes
Homemade Dog Food for Liver Disease
The best thing about this homemade dog food for liver disease recipe is straightforward to make.
As you see in the video, with about 15-20 minutes of prep work, you'll have a meal ready to serve to your Fido.
The more often you do this, the quicker the process becomes.
You'll have to get used to repetition. Since there aren't that many dog food choices for dogs with liver disease, their diet will be pretty mundane for a while.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked, diced chicken
- 1/2 cup cooked oatmeal
- One boiled egg
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin
Instructions
Start by cooking the chicken any way you prefer.
You can boil it, bake it, or cook it in a frying pan on your stovetop—it doesn't matter as long as it is thoroughly cooked.
You'll also need to boil the egg in advance and cook the oatmeal.
Once those three ingredients have been cooked, you'll want to chop the egg and cube the chicken.
Then, you can combine all five ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
Notes
This recipe makes about 3 cups of dog food. You can serve it to your pet as soon as it is thoroughly mixed.
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
You can also make a larger batch and store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months.
As you can see, this homemade dog food for liver disease recipe doesn't look very appetizing.
But trust me when I tell you that your dog will completely disagree. The chicken, egg, and cottage cheese aroma will drive him wild!
See my boxer, Chloe, devouring her meal below.
RECOMMENDED: Holistic Dog Health 101 – Ultimate Science-Based Guide
Creating a Homemade Dog Food for Liver Disease Recipe for a Puppy
When you're trying to develop a diet for a puppy with liver disease, there are a few things you want to focus on, including:
- High-quality, easily digestible protein sources
- low in copper and sodium (stay away from organ meat, especially liver)
- high in antioxidants
- high in fat (your vet may recommend 20-50% fat in your dog's diet)
Carbohydrates are another nutrient that must be provided in your dog's diet. They aid in digestion and add fiber to his diet.
Carbohydrates also help to remove ammonia from the system, which the liver may no longer be able to do.
Your veterinarian may also recommend certain supplements to your homemade dog food.
Vitamin E, vitamin B complex, vitamin C, vitamin K, and zinc are popular accessories for pets with failing livers.
The necessity of these supplements will depend on your dog's unique condition, so don't add them unless directed to by your veterinarian or a canine nutritionist.
For More Information
We publish many homemade dog food and treat recipes every month.
For more recipes, pet food cooking tips, and advice, see our “Recipes” section.
If you're new to the home-cooked dog food world, I recommend you read more about “How Much To Feed” to understand serving sizes, “What Supplements To Use” to create well-balanced meals, and “How To Store” for tips on simple and easy homemade dog food storing in a fridge or a freezer.
