Digestive and Liver Health in the Old English Sheepdog

Quick answer

Old English Sheepdogs are known for their gentle nature, but they have a specific health tendency regarding their liver function. The primary concern for this breed is a condition known as a portosystemic shunt. While this is a recognised tendency rather than a proven one, it is important to monitor your dog for subtle changes in behavior, appetite, or energy levels, as these can be the first signs that something is wrong with how their liver is processing nutrients.

Portosystemic Shunt

A portosystemic shunt is a condition where blood bypasses the liver instead of flowing through it for detoxification. This is a recognised tendency in the breed, specifically involving intrahepatic shunts. Because the liver is responsible for filtering toxins from the blood, this bypass allows those substances to circulate throughout the body, which can lead to a variety of neurological and digestive symptoms.

What you will notice at home

At home, you might notice your dog acting strangely after a meal. This is often referred to as hepatic encephalopathy. You may see your dog appearing confused, pacing, pressing their head against walls, or showing signs of disorientation. Some owners report that their dog seems to have a poor appetite or experiences bouts of vomiting and diarrhea. In more severe cases, you might notice your dog acting as if they are intoxicated, stumbling, or even experiencing seizures. Because these signs can be intermittent, it is easy to mistake them for simple digestive upset or fatigue.

What the vet does

When you bring your dog in for these symptoms, your veterinarian will start with a physical examination and a thorough history. They will likely perform blood work to check liver enzyme levels and look for indicators of poor liver function, such as low blood urea nitrogen or elevated bile acids. If these tests raise suspicion, the vet will use diagnostic imaging, such as abdominal ultrasound or specialized contrast studies, to visualize the blood flow and confirm the presence of a shunt. This imaging is the definitive step in identifying the abnormal connection.

Urgency and management

If you observe your dog experiencing neurological signs like seizures or severe disorientation, this is an emergency. Do not wait for these symptoms to pass on their own. The common mistake owners make is assuming these episodes are just 'off days' or related to a change in food. Waiting allows toxins to accumulate, which can lead to a crisis. Your vet will determine the urgency based on the severity of the neurological impairment and the results of the initial blood tests.

Establishing a Routine Health Check

To manage your Old English Sheepdog's health effectively, you should implement a simple, consistent home exam. For younger dogs, a monthly check is sufficient, but for seniors, a weekly exam is recommended. This routine helps you establish a baseline so that you can spot deviations quickly.

The home exam checklist

• Body Condition Score: Feel along the ribs and spine. You should be able to feel the ribs without a thick layer of fat, and there should be a visible waist when viewed from above.
• Gum Color: Lift the lip and check the gums. They should be a healthy, bubblegum pink. Pale, yellow, or brick-red gums are signs that you should seek veterinary advice.
• Mobility: Watch your dog walk. Look for any stiffness, favoring of a limb, or reluctance to move.
• Breathing at Rest: Count the breaths per minute while your dog is sleeping. Consistent, quiet breathing is normal. Labored or rapid breathing should be noted.
• Skin and Coat: Check for lumps, bumps, or areas of hair loss during grooming.
• Behavior Baseline: Note any changes in energy, appetite, or social interaction.