Copper Storage Disease In Dogs Diet

Copper is not a nutrient that many owners contemplate until it is associated with disease.

Copper storage disease in dogs diet. Some dogs aren t able to properly metabolize copper in the liver usually resulting from a genetic metabolic disorder. A dramatic increase in liver disease in dogs has been linked to association of american feed control officials aafco dog food nutrient requirements the very same requirements that classifies dog food as complete and balanced. In health copper plays a role in the formation of a dog s bones connective tissue collagen and myelin the protective covering of nerves. It also aids in iron absorption.

Excessive and prolonged exposure over time leads to cirrhosis and possible death. Dogs require copper in the diet to form strong bones nerve coverings and connective tissue. Copper is absorbed from the diet in the small intestines and transported to the liver. In dogs with copper storage disease excess copper is not excreted accumulates within the liver cells and causes damage.

In normal dogs excess copper is excreted from the liver in the bile and ultimately in the feces. The ideal amount of dietary copper for dogs with copper associated liver disease is unknown but likely depends on the amount of copper in the liver the amount of copper in the previous diet the time frame over which the copper built up in the liver and whether or not penicillamine or other medications are being used. A new paper links copper storage disease in dogs to aafco s change in copper supplements in pet food back in 1997. Copper storage disease csd is being diagnosed with increasing frequency.

Copper also helps the body absorb iron making it an important part of red blood cell function.