Copper Toxicosis (Accumulating) in Dogs

Category: Liver
Inheritance: Autosomal recessive
Breeds documented: 3
Published sources: 5

Overview

A known change in the ATP7B gene is linked with extra copper being stored in the liver. This gene helps remove copper through bile, the fluid involved in digestion. In dogs with copper overload, excess copper can injure liver cells and lead to lasting inflammation and scarring. A genetic result indicates a risk pattern, because other genes and environmental factors also affect copper levels.

Signs to watch for

Reduced appetite
Vomiting
Weight loss
Low energy or weakness
Yellow tint to the eyes and gums

Onset varies; copper-related illness in affected Labrador Retrievers usually appears in middle or older age.

When to get help Arrange a vet visit promptly for appetite loss, vomiting or unexplained weight loss.

Diagnosis and tests

DNA testing can identify the known ATP7B variant associated with increased liver copper. The result helps a vet assess risk, but it does not confirm how much copper is present or whether liver damage has developed. When copper-related liver disease is suspected, a liver biopsy allows both tissue examination and a direct measurement of liver copper.

Breeds with documented risk

3 breeds

By breed size

1 Small
2 Large

Labrador RetrieverLarge · Sporting Group
Doberman PinscherLarge · Working Group
Bedlington TerrierSmall · Terrier Group

Inheritance

This condition has more than one known form, and different breeds inherit it in different ways. The sources list the form found in each breed.

Autosomal recessive
Labrador Retriever, Huntaway, New Zealand Heading Dog
A dog is affected only if it inherits two copies of the gene variant, one from each parent. A dog with one copy is a carrier: usually healthy, but able to pass the variant on. When two carriers are bred, on average one puppy in four is affected. A DNA test can tell clear, carrier and at-risk dogs apart.
As stated by OMIA
Autosomal dominant, incomplete penetrance
Doberman Pinscher, Labrador Retriever
One copy can be enough, but not every dog with the variant develops the condition, and severity can vary. A DNA result shows risk, not certainty.
As stated by Laboklin
Multifactorial
Several genes and the environment together set the risk. Diet, growth rate, weight and exercise can all play a part. There is no single DNA test. Screening the parents (for example hip or elbow scores) and choosing from lines with good results lowers the risk, but does not remove it.
As stated by OMIA

We've gathered what published sources say about this condition, so you can talk it through with your vet. It isn't veterinary advice: you and your vet know your dog best.