Skip to main content

Liver

A representation of Liver

Liver is a popular ingredient in many dog food products and is also suitable as a treat or supplementary food. But what is liver and how healthy is it for your dog? In this article, you'll find out everything you need to know about liver as dog food.

What is the liver?

The liver is an organ that is found in all vertebrates and fulfills various important functions. Among other things, the liver is responsible for detoxifying the body, producing bile, storing vitamins and minerals and regulating blood sugar levels. The liver consists of different lobes, each of which has its own blood supply.

What are the benefits of liver for dogs?

Liver is a highly nutritious food that contains many vitamins, minerals, trace elements and proteins. Of particular note are vitamins A, B12, C, D, E and K as well as iron, copper, zinc and selenium. These nutrients are important for the health of your dog's skin, coat, eyes, immune system, nerves and blood formation. Liver also tastes very good to many dogs and can stimulate their appetite.

What are the disadvantages of liver for dogs?

Although liver is healthy, it is also very rich in vitamin A. Too much vitamin A can lead to an overdose, which can have a negative effect on your dog's bones, joints and internal organs. Symptoms of vitamin A poisoning include loss of appetite, weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy and pain. You should therefore not feed your dog too much liver and always pay attention to the recommended daily ration. 
As a rule of thumb, liver should not make up more than 5% of the total food ration.

Another disadvantage of liver is that it can contain harmful substances that have accumulated in the organ over the course of a dog's life. This is especially true for livers from conventionally reared or wild animals. To minimize the risk, you should therefore look for organic quality or liver from young animals.

 

Liver is a valuable dog food that provides many nutrients and suits your dog's taste. However, you should make sure that you don't feed your dog too much liver and only buy high-quality products. This way you can do something good for your dog and offer him a varied diet.


Properties 4

Are you looking for other ingredients with a specific property?
Just click on them to find more.

Food Meat Safe feeding Tolerated in small quantities

Learn even more about Liver

If you notice any signs of hypersensitivity or poisoning in your dog, you should see your vet immediately. We are not a substitute for a vet, but we try to be as accurate as possible. Every dog reacts differently and we recommend you get a second opinion or consult your vet if in doubt.

Stay healthy and take good care of your four-legged friend!😊

Similar to Liver

Heart

The heart is a muscular organ that pumps blood through the body. It consists mainly of muscle meat, but also of connective tissue, fat and blood vessels. Hearts come from different animals such as...

Rumen

The rumen is the first of four stomachs that ruminants such as cows, sheep or goats have. It is used to pre-digest plant food and contains many bacteria, enzymes and microorganisms. These help the...

Kidney

The kidney is a paired organ found in mammals, birds, reptiles and fish. The kidney consists of many small units, the nephrons, which filter the blood and produce urine. The kidney has various...

Lung

The lung is an organ that is responsible for breathing. It consists of many small air sacs that are filled with air and transport oxygen from the air into the blood. The lungs adapt to the expansion...