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Why are my puppy's liver enzyme levels high? What are the causes?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Female | unspayed | 6 months and 26 days old | 45 lbs

What might cause the elevation in the levels?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on September 2nd, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Was Luna sick? Again I wouldn't worry about an increased ALP in a young growing dog. Other reasons for increased liver enzymes are: toxin, drugs, infection, inflammation, porto-systemic shunt (liver shunt), gall bladder or pancreatic disease or in an older dog cancer and cushings. I think the plan laid out by your vet and my earlier drug suggestions are good to follow if she is not sick and recheck her values in 4 weeks. Good luck!

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    Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 13th, 2017

    Elevation of these enzymes can be due to several condition, the most commons would be pancreatitis, liver failure or gall bladder disease. these condition can occur in young dogs as well, but if he doesn't have any symptoms i would recommend monitoring him and repeating the blood test in 3-6 months.

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