Hepatitis in dogs affects the liver and can be either infectious or chronic. Knowing the signs, causes, and available treatments can make all the difference when it comes to your dog’s health. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about hepatitis in dogs—what it is, what to look for, and how to protect your pup.
What is Hepatitis in Dogs?
Hepatitis in dogs is a condition that leads to inflammation and damage to the liver. There are two primary forms of hepatitis seen in dogs:
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Infectious Canine Hepatitis (ICH)
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Canine Chronic Hepatitis
Both forms can lead to serious liver damage if not treated, but they differ in their causes and progression.
1. Infectious Canine Hepatitis (ICH)
Infectious canine hepatitis is an acute and contagious viral disease caused by canine adenovirus type 1 (CAV-1). It targets multiple organs, including the liver, lungs, kidneys, and blood vessels.
ICH is most often contracted when a dog comes into contact with urine, saliva, feces, or nasal discharge from an infected animal. Even after a dog recovers, it may continue shedding the virus through its urine for six months or longer, which poses a risk to other dogs.
Although widespread vaccinations have helped reduce the occurrence of ICH, outbreaks can still happen—especially in puppies or unvaccinated dogs.
2. Canine Chronic Hepatitis
Chronic hepatitis is a long-term liver disease often seen in middle-aged or older dogs. It’s typically the result of ongoing liver inflammation that leads to fibrosis and liver failure over time.
Some cases are associated with ICH, but chronic hepatitis can also be triggered by:
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Accumulated copper in liver cells (particularly in genetically predisposed breeds)
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Autoimmune disease
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Drug toxicity
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Long-term exposure to infections or inflammation
Breeds at higher risk include:
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Bedlington Terriers
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Doberman Pinschers
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Cocker Spaniels
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West Highland White Terriers
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Maltese
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Skye Terriers
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Beagles
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Standard Poodles
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Labrador Retrievers
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Springer Spaniels
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Chihuahuas
Signs and Symptoms of Hepatitis in Dogs
The symptoms of hepatitis can vary greatly depending on whether the condition is acute (infectious) or chronic.
Common symptoms of Infectious Canine Hepatitis include:
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Watery discharge from the eyes or nose
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Congestion and coughing
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Mild fever
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Loss of appetite and thirst
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Swollen tonsils
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Vomiting or abdominal pain (in some cases)
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Yellowish (jaundiced) gums, ears, or skin
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Eye inflammation
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Bruised or reddened mouth and nose
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Spontaneous bleeding or red spots on the skin
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Depression or lethargy
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In severe cases: swelling of the neck/head, seizures, or even sudden death
Chronic hepatitis signs are typically more gradual and may include:
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Ongoing lethargy
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Decreased appetite
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Weight loss
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Vomiting
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Diarrhea
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Fluid build-up in the abdomen
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Jaundice
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Behavioral changes
If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, particularly if they develop suddenly or worsen quickly, seek veterinary help immediately.
Diagnosing Hepatitis in Dogs
A definitive diagnosis is essential for proper treatment and may include:
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Physical examination and history: If the onset is sudden with signs of bleeding, ICH may be suspected.
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Blood tests: To assess liver function and detect abnormalities in white and red blood cell counts or clotting ability.
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Antibody tests and immunofluorescence: To identify the CAV-1 virus.
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X-rays or ultrasound: To examine liver size and structure.
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Liver biopsy: This is the gold standard to diagnose chronic hepatitis and determine its severity.
In some fortunate cases, routine blood panels may catch liver changes before noticeable symptoms appear, making regular wellness exams critically important—especially in older dogs or predisposed breeds.
Treatment Options for Canine Hepatitis
Treatment depends on whether your dog has an acute infection or chronic liver disease.
For infectious hepatitis, treatment is generally supportive and may include:
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Hospitalization and IV fluids
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Broad-spectrum antibiotics to prevent secondary infections
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Blood transfusions, if significant blood loss or clotting issues are present
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Medications for fever, pain, and inflammation
If corneal clouding (known as “blue eye”) occurs, your vet may prescribe eye ointments and recommend limiting exposure to bright light.
For chronic hepatitis, the goal is long-term management:
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Anti-inflammatory medications such as corticosteroids
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Immunosuppressive drugs if an autoimmune component is suspected
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Copper-reduction therapies for copper-associated hepatitis
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Specialized liver-support diets
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Routine bloodwork monitoring to manage progression
Though chronic hepatitis can’t be cured, early detection and proper management can significantly improve your dog’s quality of life.
Prognosis: What to Expect
The outcome for dogs with hepatitis depends on how early the disease is caught and how well they respond to treatment.
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Infectious hepatitis can be fatal in severe cases, especially in puppies, but with prompt care, many dogs recover fully.
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Chronic hepatitis is a lifelong condition. With careful monitoring and treatment, many dogs live for years with a good quality of life.
Be aware that even after recovery, some dogs may suffer from long-term complications, such as kidney issues or lingering eye cloudiness.
Preventing Canine Hepatitis
Prevention is better than cure—especially when it comes to ICH.
The canine hepatitis vaccine, which is often combined with the distemper and parvovirus vaccines, is highly effective. Puppies typically receive:
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First dose: 7–9 weeks
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Booster: 11–13 weeks
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Additional booster at 15 months
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Annual boosters thereafter
Vaccination remains the most effective tool in preventing infectious canine hepatitis. Avoid contact with infected dogs and maintain good hygiene when interacting with other dogs, especially in multi-pet households or shelters.
Conclusion: Know the Signs and Take Action
Hepatitis in dogs can be serious—but with early recognition, swift treatment, and preventive care, your dog can recover or live comfortably even with a chronic condition.
If you suspect your dog is showing symptoms of hepatitis—don’t wait. Contact your veterinarian right away for an evaluation and appropriate testing.
A healthy liver is key to your dog’s overall well-being. Let’s work together to keep those tails wagging for years to come.