Copper Toxicosis (Accumulating)

Signs are non-specific, including weight loss, inappetence, vomiting, and diarrhea. Jaundice, a fluid-filled abdomen, and neurologic signs can occur in more severely affected dogs.

Signs typically develop in adults.

Genetic testing, blood work, abdominal ultrasound, and surgical biopsy are all used to diagnose this condition.

Treatment includes a low copper diet and medical management to help bind excess copper. Antioxidant supplements may also be considered.

Talk to your vet about your dog’s copper toxicosis result so you can discuss if dietary management or monitoring is indicated.

Copper is an essential nutrient, but amounts can vary widely among commercial diets, so your vet may recommend a specific food or periodic testing to maintain safe levels.

Many dogs with this result never develop clinical disease. Watch for signs that may indicate high copper levels, such as decreased appetite, vomiting, lethargy, or jaundice.

Learn more about how the three variants for Copper Toxicosis are inherited and, if applicable, how results can be used in a breeding program here.

This mutation was first described in the Labrador Retriever. Further studies have indicated that it may play a role in Doberman Pinscher copper-associated liver disease.

Penetrance: This mutation is inherited in an autosomal incomplete dominant manner, meaning that one or two copies of this gene can cause the disorder. However, it is incompletely penetrant, meaning that not all dogs with one or two copies of the mutation will actually develop the disease. Dogs with two copies of the mutation are at greater risk of developing this disease than dogs with one copy of the mutation.

Gene

ATP7B

Inheritance type

incomplete dominance

Clinical category

Hepatic

Citations

1. Feiten et al 2016
2. Wu et al 2019
3. Langlois et al 2022

• English Labrador Retriever
• Labrador Retriever
• Doberman Pinscher