Vet Study Linked Dog Food Copper to Liver Disease
Owners of breeds prone to liver health issues should consult their veterinarian regarding copper intake in commercial pet food.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Dogs
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Research published in 2026 linked higher copper levels in commercial dog diets to liver storage disease. The studies found that dogs eating these diets contained 10 times more copper than wild coyotes.
Why it matters
Excessive copper storage causes liver inflammation and failure, prompting a call for new safety limits on additives like copper sulfate. Currently, no maximum limit exists for copper in dog food formulations.
Some liver treats contain copper concentrations between 200 and 400 parts per million. These levels appear in the context of research examining 100 senior dogs through liver biopsies.
The players
Dr. Pete VanVranken
A veterinarian with a 50-year career who authored recent studies on canine copper storage disease.
Association of American Feed Control Officials
An organization that sets nutritional guidelines for pet food but currently lacks a maximum limit for copper.
The details
Copper storage disease occurs when excess mineral accumulates in the liver, leading to inflammation and eventual scarring. The condition is often diagnosed via liver biopsy or through monitoring alanine transaminase levels in bloodwork. While copper is an essential nutrient, commercial foods often rely on additives like copper sulfate and chelated copper to meet established nutritional guidelines.
Timeline
Two studies regarding canine liver health were published in 2026.
The Home Front
This research highlights a growing debate over how current nutritional guidelines for pet food impact long-term canine health. It marks a push to introduce maximum-level regulations similar to those found in other pet-food safety standards.
Ask your veterinarian about including an alanine transaminase test during your dog's next routine wellness exam to monitor liver health. Dobermans, Labradors, Westies, and Dalmatians should be prioritized for these screenings given their higher susceptibility to copper storage disease.
The takeaway
Owners should be mindful of the copper content in high-concentration snacks like liver treats, which can reach 400 parts per million. Always verify your dog's specific health risks with a veterinarian before making significant changes to their diet or supplement regimen.
Further reading
Learn more about managing your pet's dietary needs at Dogs.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WWMT.
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