What is liver cancer in dogs and how can you support your pet fighting it? 2025

A cancer diagnosis in your pet is heartbreaking news. For many pet owners, cancer is a major concern , especially when it comes to a senior dog.

If your veterinarian has recently diagnosed liver cancer, you're likely concerned and wondering questions like: What causes liver cancer in dogs? What are the symptoms to look out for? What is the life expectancy? What veterinary treatment options are available to you? Are there any natural treatments that can support my dog ​​during liver cancer?

In this article, we'll delve deeper into these topics so you can be well-informed and better equipped to help your pooch through this trying time.

We have also prepared the Complete Guide to Cancer in Dogs, which contains additional information on the different cancers that affect dogs.

What causes liver cancer in dogs?

As with all cancers, it is difficult to pinpoint a single cause, as many genetic and environmental factors must be considered. Diet can also be a factor. Additionally, older dogs are more often affected by all cancers, including liver cancer.

The majority of liver cancers affecting dogs are metastatic, meaning that cancer cells that have grown in other parts of the body have metastasized, or spread, to the liver as well. When the cancer starts in the liver, it is called a primary liver tumor.

Although, generally speaking, most tumors are benign (non-cancerous and do not spread), the majority of liver tumors in dogs are malignant (cancerous and can spread).

There are 4 types of liver tumors in dogs (each corresponding to a different affected region of the liver): hepatocellular tumors, biliary tract tumors, neuroendocrine tumors (carcinoids), and primary sarcomas.

Hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC) are the most common type of cancer in dogs. They usually present as a single, large tumor on the liver.

Symptoms of Liver Cancer in Dogs

Here are the signs of liver cancer in dogs that you can watch for in your dog:

• Lethargy
• Weight loss
• Diarrhea
• Increased thirst and urination
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

How do I know if my dog ​​has liver cancer?

Symptoms can vary and some dogs may be asymptomatic, meaning they do not show any symptoms.

However, if you notice a sudden onset of certain symptoms such as weakness, loss of balance, and/or lethargy, you should have your dog examined immediately. By the time of diagnosis, most dogs are already showing symptoms of liver disease.

Since the majority of liver tumors in dogs are metastatic, if your dog has been diagnosed with cancer in the past, be alert to the appearance of any of the above symptoms, as this may indicate that the cancer has spread to the liver.

Liver cancer in dogs: life expectancy

The life expectancy of a dog diagnosed with liver cancer depends on several factors, such as the severity, size, and type of tumor. Unfortunately, metastatic tumors found in the liver generally have a poor prognosis (approximately 3-6 months, depending on the dog) and are more difficult to treat.

Primary liver tumors such as HCCs, which present as a single mass, are generally easier to treat, with a lower risk of spread to other parts of the body. The lifespan of a dog with this type of liver tumor is therefore much more favorable.

The terminal phase Liver cancer in dogs causes a greater intensity of the symptoms mentioned above. In addition, abdominal swelling is present. due to fluid accumulation (ascites). In addition, the presence of tumor masses in the liver can cause abdominal pain, often observed by a hunched posture.

What are the conventional treatments for liver cancer in dogs?

Conventional treatments available for your dog may vary depending on the location, type, and size of the tumor, whether primary or metastatic. After reviewing the specific characteristics of your pet's tumor, your veterinarian may recommend surgery or chemotherapy .

Of course, no matter what treatment plan your veterinarian recommends, you want to give your dog the best possible treatment . We understand your desire to do everything you can to support his fight against cancer!

Are there any options to naturally support my dog ​​in his fight against liver cancer?

Many pet owners are looking for natural treatments to use alongside conventional treatment. Natural remedies such as milk thistle (or milk of thistle), Turmeric and medicinal mushrooms are frequently recommended for liver cancer in dogs.

How can I treat or relieve my dog's liver naturally?

Milk thistle

Milk thistle, also known as milk thistle, is a well-known medicinal plant, mainly for its beneficial effects on the liver.

The main active ingredient in milk thistle is silymarin, a complex of antioxidants that includes silybin, silydianin, and silychristin. These substances are particularly renowned for their liver-protecting and restorative properties .

1. Regenerator: Silymarin in milk thistle helps protect liver cells from toxins and promotes the regeneration of damaged liver cells.
   
   

2. Antioxidant : Milk thistle is a natural remedy that acts as a powerful antioxidant, reducing the damage caused by free radicals to cells in the body, including those in the liver.
   
   

3. Anti-inflammatory: Silymarin has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce liver inflammation.

Turmeric

Turmeric, particularly its active component curcumin, is another natural remedy often cited for its beneficial properties in the management of cancer, including liver cancer in dogs.

This spice, well known in Asian cuisine and traditional medicine, has been studied for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anticancer effects .

1. Antioxidant : Curcumin helps fight free radical damage in the body, which is crucial for dogs with cancer, as cancer cells can be promoted by oxidative stress.
   
   

2. Anti-inflammatory : Chronic inflammation is a recognized contributor to the development and progression of cancer. Curcumin helps reduce this inflammation, which may be beneficial for dogs with liver cancer.
   
   

3. Anticancer : Studies have shown that curcumin can help inhibit the growth of cancer cells and even induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in some cancer cells.

Turmeric is available in several forms, including powders, capsules, and liquid formulations specifically designed for animals. It is often combined with black pepper or a compound called piperine, which increases the body's absorption of curcumin.

When using turmeric as a natural treatment for liver cancer, it is crucial to follow the correct dosage, as overdosing can cause digestive problems such as nausea or diarrhea.

Medicinal mushrooms

Certain specific mushrooms have been studied for their immunomodulatory, antioxidant and potentially anticancer properties .

1. Reishi: It is known for its immune-boosting abilities. Research has shown that reishi can help inhibit tumor growth and improve immune response, which may be beneficial for dogs with liver cancer.
   
   

2. Coriolus versicolor: It contains polysaccharides like PSK and PSP that have been studied for their ability to boost the immune system. Studies in dogs have indicated that coriolus can improve the survival and quality of life of dogs with certain types of cancer like liver cancer.
   
   

3. Maitake: It contains a specific polysaccharide, D-fraction, which may help stimulate the immune system and exert anticancer effects.
   
   

4. Shiitake: It is rich in lentinan, another polysaccharide that can boost immunity and also has anticancer properties.

Medicinal mushrooms are usually administered in powder, capsule, or liquid extract form. The dosage should be adjusted based on the dog's weight and health.

When dealing with cancer, the goal is to strengthen your dog's immune system to fight the disease and to combat and prevent recurrences. This is exactly what medicinal mushrooms can do for your dog!

A dog owner used our natural products for his dog diagnosed with liver cancer and shared his experience with us. He found that our products really helped him. He remains convinced that if he had known from the beginning that his dog needed them, it would have been even more effective. He was able to enjoy his dog's company longer thanks to our natural remedies.

A natural solution for your dog

Our PiptoAnimo (Cancer & Tumor Support) is the Piptoporus Betulini mushroom. Medicinal mushrooms are specially designed to keep the body healthy in cases of cancer and tumors, even for long-term use! It is an incredible immune system booster , and this natural product promotes stronger health so your dog can fight off illness.

PiptoAnimo (Cancer & Tumor Support) is formulated with proven anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties, helping your dog fight off unhealthy cancer cells.

What are the stages of liver cancer in dogs?

The four stages of liver cancer in dogs are generally defined based on tumor size, lymph node involvement, and the presence of metastases to other organs.

Here is a general explanation of the different stages of liver cancer in dogs:

Stage I

• Tumor size: The tumor is confined to the liver and is relatively small.
  
  
• Lymph nodes: There is no involvement of the lymph nodes.
  
  
• Metastases: No metastases are present.

Stage II

• Tumor size: The tumor is larger but still confined to the liver.
  
  
• Lymph nodes: Nearby lymph nodes may begin to show signs of involvement.
  
  
• Metastases: There are still no distant metastases.

Stage III

• Tumor size: The tumor may have invaded other parts of the liver or nearby structures.
  
  
• Lymph nodes: Regional lymph nodes are affected.
  
  
• Metastases: There may be local metastases, but not distant ones.

Stage IV

• Tumor size: The tumor may be very large or multiple tumors may be present.
  
  
• Lymph nodes: Regional lymph nodes and perhaps more distant ones are involved.
  
  
• Metastases: Metastases to other parts of the body are present, indicating significant spread.

Diagnosis of liver cancer stages in dogs is usually done through a series of tests, including blood tests, abdominal ultrasounds, chest X-rays, and often a liver biopsy to confirm the nature and type of tumor.

How to prevent liver cancer in dogs?

Preventing liver cancer in dogs can be complex because the exact causes are not always clear and may include a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

However, there are several steps dog owners can take to help reduce their pet's risk of developing liver cancer.

Here are some recommendations:

1. Balanced Diet
Ensuring a healthy and balanced diet is crucial. Choose a high-quality food that's appropriate for your dog's age, size, and activity level. Some veterinarians recommend diets rich in antioxidants (such as vitamin E, beta-carotene, and vitamin C), which can help protect cells from oxidative damage.

2. Weight Management
Maintaining a healthy weight is important because obesity can be a risk factor for many health problems, including liver problems.

3. Regular Exercise
Regular exercise helps maintain weight, improves circulation, and contributes to optimal overall health. An active dog is less likely to develop chronic conditions that could predispose to cancer.

4. Regular Veterinary Checks
Regular visits to the veterinarian help detect and treat health problems early. Regular follow-up may include blood tests that monitor liver function and can detect abnormalities before they become serious.

5. Avoid Toxins
Minimizing exposure to toxins is essential. This includes pesticides, herbicides, and toxic fumes. Use household products and pest control treatments that are safe for pets.

6. Appropriate Supplementation
Talk to your veterinarian about using supplements that may support liver health, such as milk thistle, turmeric, and other antioxidants. These can help maintain a healthy liver and reduce oxidative stress.

Conclusion

I hope the information in this article helps you better understand your pooch's diagnosis and see what options are available to help them - so you can ensure your faithful companion gets all the help they need!

If you're concerned that your pet may be suffering from a health issue, our Free Pet Health Referral can help. In addition to receiving advice and recommendations from our Natural Health Advisors, they'll also guide you through the products and treatment options that best suit your pet's health needs.