Instead of using traditional meats, this diet includes eggs and cottage cheese as primary protein sources.

These ingredients are more easily digestible, have a higher biological value, and produce fewer waste byproducts like ammonia. This is crucial for dogs with liver disease, as reducing the liver’s detoxification workload can help prevent complications like hepatic encephalopathy.

• Eggs contain a complete amino acid profile, making them an excellent, efficient protein source with minimal strain on the liver.
• Cottage cheese is low in purines, which are found in higher concentrations in meats and can increase ammonia levels in the blood. By using cottage cheese, we reduce the burden on the liver while still providing high-quality protein to maintain muscle mass.

With only 2.5% fat on an as-fed basis, this diet helps reduce the liver's workload in metabolizing fats, which is essential for dogs with liver disease. The inclusion of sunflower oil and cod liver oil provides healthy fats and essential omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation and support overall health.

The diet uses easily digestible carbohydrates such as brown rice, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin to provide energy without causing digestive stress. These ingredients also contribute beneficial fibre, which helps regulate digestion and support gut health.

An ideal omega-6 to omega-3 ratio of 2.26:1 helps reduce inflammation and supports liver function. The addition of fish oil provides essential EPA and DHA, which have anti-inflammatory properties beneficial for dogs with liver disease.

Fresh vegetables like broccoli, pumpkin, carrots, and beans provide a natural source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that help combat oxidative stress and support liver health.

The combination of moderate protein from highly digestible sources, controlled fat, and nutrient-dense ingredients is designed to:

• Support liver function while minimising metabolic stress.
• Reduce the production of ammonia and other byproducts that can burden a compromised liver.
• Provide balanced, digestible nutrition to enhance your dog's energy levels and quality of life.

The Liver Support Diet was developed by Dr Anna Sutton, a physiologist and registered animal nutritionist with clinical nutrition training from the European School for Advanced Veterinary Studies (ESAVS). With over 20 years of experience in the pet food industry, Anna specialises in novel sustainable raw materials, oxidation management, food safety, and nutrition.