Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a fat-like substance found in all dog cells and is required for the formation of cell walls and hormone production.

Why do dogs need cholesterol?

Cholesterol forms the basis for cell membranes and enables their flexibility. Without this substance, dog cells could not function properly.

The liver produces about 80% of the required cholesterol itself. The rest is taken up by the dog through food, although dogs need significantly less dietary cholesterol than humans.

Cholesterol also serves as a building block for hormones such as cortisol and sex hormones. It plays a key role in bile acid production for fat digestion.

Which dog breeds more frequently have elevated cholesterol levels?

Shetland Sheepdogs and Miniature Schnauzers show genetically predisposed elevated cholesterol levels more frequently. In these breeds, there is often a predisposition to familial hyperlipidaemia.

Cocker Spaniels and Beagles also develop cholesterol problems more often, usually in connection with hypothyroidism. Small terrier breeds are less frequently affected.

The predisposition usually only becomes apparent from middle age onwards, between 5 and 8 years. Puppies practically never have elevated cholesterol levels without an underlying disease.

When do cholesterol levels in dogs become dangerous?

Elevated cholesterol levels alone do not immediately make dogs ill. The danger lies in the long-term consequences for the heart and blood vessels.

Unlike in humans, high cholesterol levels in dogs rarely lead to heart attacks. Instead, problems with the pancreas or liver function are more likely to arise.

Levels above 300 mg/dl are considered to require treatment; normal levels are 100–270 mg/dl depending on the laboratory. At levels above 500 mg/dl, there is an acute risk of pancreatitis.

What causes high cholesterol levels in dogs?

Hypothyroidism is the most common cause of elevated cholesterol levels. The slowed metabolism means that fats are broken down less efficiently.

Cushing’s syndrome also raises cholesterol levels through excessive cortisol production. Diabetes mellitus disrupts overall fat metabolism and also causes cholesterol levels to rise.

Fatty food can exacerbate cholesterol problems in susceptible dogs, but rarely causes them on its own. Table scraps with cream, butter or bacon are more problematic than high-quality dog food.

How do I recognise cholesterol problems in my dog?

High cholesterol levels do not show themselves directly through symptoms. You are more likely to notice the signs of the underlying diseases.

In hypothyroidism, the dog becomes lazier, the coat duller and it gains weight despite a normal amount of food. Skin problems and sensitivity to cold are added to this.

Very rarely, yellowish fatty nodules form under the skin (xanthomas), usually on the elbows or eyelids. These indicate extreme cholesterol levels above 1000 mg/dl.

How is high cholesterol in dogs treated?

Treatment depends on the underlying disease. If hypothyroidism is present, cholesterol levels usually normalise after 6–8 weeks of thyroid hormone therapy.

Dietary food with reduced fat content (less than 10% crude fat) supports treatment. Hill’s i/d Low Fat or Royal Canin Digestive Low Fat have proven effective.

Special cholesterol-lowering medications are rarely used in dogs, usually only for familial hyperlipidaemia without a treatable underlying disease.

Can I prevent elevated cholesterol levels in my dog?

Prevention is only possible to a limited extent, as genetic factors or other diseases are usually the cause.

Regular blood tests from the 7th year of life help to detect thyroid problems early. In susceptible breeds, levels should be checked annually.

Maintaining a normal weight and choosing low-fat treats reduces the risk. Carrots, apples or lean meat are better rewards than cheese or sausage.