Liver is often called a nutritional powerhouse, packed with essential vitamins and minerals that can benefit your dog’s health. But as with all good things, moderation is key! While liver is a fantastic addition to your pup’s diet, too much of it can lead to health issues. So how much liver is actually healthy for dogs? Let’s dig in!
The Benefits of Liver for Dogs
Liver—whether beef, lamb, or chicken—is an excellent source of nutrients, including:
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Vitamin A – Essential for eye health, immune function, and skin & coat health.
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Iron – A critical mineral for red blood cell production and overall energy levels.
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B Vitamins (B12, Riboflavin, and Niacin) – Support metabolism, brain function, and overall well-being.
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Copper & Zinc – Important for immune support, bone health, and digestion.
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Protein – A great source of high-quality protein to support muscle growth and repair.
With so many benefits, it’s no wonder liver is a common ingredient in dog treats, including our Beef + Blueberry Treats, which contain just the right amount of liver for a nutritious boost!
Can Too Much Liver Be Harmful?
Yes! Liver is nutrient-dense, but an excessive amount can cause vitamin A toxicity, leading to issues such as:
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Bone deformities or weakness
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Joint pain and stiffness
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Digestive upset
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Overconsumption of iron, which can stress the liver and other organs
To keep your pup safe and healthy, liver treats should be given in moderation. As a general rule:
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Small dogs (under 10kg): No more than 2-5g of liver per day
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Medium dogs (10-25kg): Up to 10g of liver per day
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Large dogs (25kg+): Up to 15g of liver per day
These guidelines apply to all types of liver, including beef, lamb, and chicken liver. Chicken liver tends to have slightly higher vitamin A content, so extra caution should be taken when feeding it in large amounts.
Of course, these are just guidelines! Always consider your dog’s overall diet, weight, and activity level.
Choosing the Right Liver Treats
Here at The Dog Days, we include a touch of liver in our Beef + Blueberry Treats to ensure your pup gets the benefits without the risk of overconsumption. Plus, we offer Lamb, Apple + Mint and Chicken, Apple + Banana treats with or without liver, so you have control over your dog’s intake.
For liver-loving dogs, we also have Chicken Hearts, Livers + Giblets, providing a balanced mix of organ meats for added variety and nutrition.
If your pup loves liver, it’s best to feed it as part of a balanced diet rather than overloading on liver-heavy treats. Remember, variety is key to good nutrition!
The Verdict: To Liver or Not to Liver?
Liver is a fantastic, nutrient-rich ingredient that supports your dog’s health—when fed in moderation. So, next time your pup gives you those puppy-dog eyes for another liver treat, just remember: a little goes a long way!
Looking for handcrafted, perfectly portioned dog treats with just the right amount of liver? Check out our range at The Dog Days—we promise your pup will love them!