Species: Dog
Condition: Copper Storage Disease
Organ System: Nervous/sensory
Also known by a variety of names including Copper Toxicosis, Copper Hepatoxicosis, Copper Storage Hepatitis, and Hepatic Copper Toxicosis, the abnormality is due to a defect in the metabolism that results in the accumulation of copper in the body. The unusually high amounts of copper can cause toxicity problems in the liver and brain resulting in hepatitis and scarring of the liver over time. Breeds which are predisposed to the problem include Labrador Retrievers, Bedlington Terriers, and Doberman Pinschers. There are three types of the primary form of the disease which has been identified and include subclinical, acute, and the chronic progressive form. Secondary copper liver disease may arise as a result of an underlying cause including chronic hepatitis. Important signs include yellowish discoloration of skin and conjunctiva (jaundice or icterus), dark-colored urine, anemia, blood in the urine due to the presence of hemoglobin, and digestive problems. Chronic forms may also be manifested by excessive thirst and urination, black or tarry stools, abdominal distension, and signs of nervous system dysfunction. Your veterinarian may recommend a complete blood profile together with a complete blood count and urinalysis. An ultrasound of the abdominal area may be taken and a tissue sample from your dog’s liver may be examined for biopsy. The line of treatment may include fluids and electrolyte supplements. A low-copper diet and avoiding dog supplements that contain copper have been shown to be effective in many cases.
Breeds exposed to Copper Storage Disease – Research Reference
Clumber Spaniel Cross – (Shelton 1999)
Sussex Spaniel Cross – (Shelton 1999)
Irish Setter Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Irish Red and White Setter Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Irish Red and White Setter – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Irish Setter – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Sussex Spaniel – (Shelton 1999)
Clumber Spaniel – (Shelton 1999)
Disease Author
Dr Merliza Cabriles, Professor of Veterinary Medicine
To learn more about Copper Storage Disease or any other condition we invite you to search this website. Even better, pick up the phone and call your vet. Your vet knows your pet better than anyone else and is a fountain of information.
This information is accurate as at May 2014 and is subject to change without notice.
For Petmed Pet Health Insurance – pre-existing condition exclusion applies. Annual Benefit Limits and excess amounts vary based on pet health insurance plans.
