Copper Toxicosis (Labrador Retriever)(CT)
Also known as: Copper Toxicosis · Copper Storage Hepatopathy · Kupfer-Speicherkrankheit · Copper Storage Disease · Labrador Copper Toxicosis · …
Overview
What it is
Copper toxicosis is an inherited metabolic disorder where the liver is unable to properly excrete copper, which is a mineral found in normal dog food. This causes copper to build up to toxic levels in the liver cells, leading to chronic inflammation and progressive tissue damage. Over time, this accumulation can result in liver failure if left untreated.
How it presents
Owners may notice gradual signs of liver dysfunction, such as a loss of appetite, lethargy, vomiting, weight loss, or a yellowish tint to the skin and gums. These symptoms typically become apparent in middle-aged dogs, usually between 2 and 6 years of age.
Treatment
While the condition is treatable, it requires lifelong management including a strict low-copper diet, copper-binding medications, and regular veterinary monitoring. The lifetime cost of managing this chronic condition typically ranges from 3,000 to 12,000 EUR.
How it's tested
Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch)(Labogen-Panel)
Primary testDNA testRassespezifisches DNA-Panel (Labogen / Laboklin) — bündelt alle relevanten Erbkrankheiten der Rasse in einem Test.
Issuing body: Labogen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch)(Feragen-Panel)
DNA testRassespezifisches DNA-Panel (Feragen, Österreich) — gleiches Konzept wie Labogen.
Issuing body: Feragen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Embark Breed + Health Panel(Embark)
DNA testUS-Anbieter; 250+ genetische Erkrankungen + Abstammung. Anerkennung in DE/AT variiert je nach VDH-Verein.
Issuing body: Embark
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
MyDogDNA Panel(MyDogDNA)
DNA testGenoscoper-basiertes Panel (Mars Petcare). 200+ Erkrankungen + Rassenkomposition.
Issuing body: MyDogDNA
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Copper Toxicosis (Labrador Retriever)?
Copper toxicosis is an inherited metabolic disorder where the liver is unable to properly excrete copper, which is a mineral found in normal dog food. This causes copper to build up to toxic levels in the liver cells, leading to chronic inflammation and progressive tissue damage. Over time, this accumulation can result in liver failure if left untreated.
How is Copper Toxicosis (Labrador Retriever) tested?
Tests currently in our database: Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Embark Breed + Health Panel, MyDogDNA Panel.
Which breeds are most affected?
This condition isn't tied to a specific breed in our database.