Accepted Answer

Thanks for the question Ray,

While I cannot diagnose your dog over the internet I can list some of the likely possibilities :

1. It could be an infection { hepatitis } of some kind, this can be due to viruses such as infectious canine hepatitis or it could be due to acute bacterial infections.

2. Poisons often cause high liver enzymes and poisoning happens quite often in the dog as they can be inquisitive and will eat anything given the chance. Antifreeze and chocolate for example commonly cause problems.

3. Prescribed drugs which the dog is already on such as non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

4. Congenital defects such as portosystemic shunts.

5. It could be related to other diseases which are already present such as diabetes.

6. Cancer of the liver is a common cause of high liver enzymes but it is very unlikely in your dog's age group.

On the plus side is that your dog is very young and the liver has a high capacity to regenerate itself. Normal treatment where the cause is not known { which does happen } is to support the dog on a drip, supply good nursing care, use drugs to treat any symptoms which appear until the liver recovers.

If I can advise you more please get back in touch,

Scot Nimmo BVMS

Expert:	Scott Nimmo BVMS, MRCVS.
Pos. Feedback:	99.9 %
Accepts:
Answered:	7/1/2008

Dog Veterinarian

I have 28 years experience in all aspects of canine medicine and surgery.