Health Effects of Copper in Commercial Dog Food

I found out the hard way about the health effects of copper in commercial dog food. My sweet Beagle had an “acute collapse.” I discovered the problem when I got home from running errands and Olivia was in the kitchen, lying on her side. Foam and vomit were coming from her mouth, and her belly was hard and swollen. And when I tried to her move to dry area on the floor, I realized that she couldn’t sit up.

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Copper’s function
Copper’s role in your dog’s health
How much copper should a dog consume?
What happens when a dog gets too much copper?
Symptoms of copper poisoning
Managing how much copper your dog eats
Foods rich in copper:
Foods that are low in copper+−
- Interested in reading more:
- Healthy meals for dogs

I rushed Olivia to our veterinarian who ran a series of tests. He found that Olivia’s liver enzymes were extremely high.

The vet decided to keep an eye on Olivia for the rest of the day. When I picked her up, she looked and acted like herself again. The vet’s recommendation was that Olivia start a low-copper diet. He suspected the amount of copper in her dog food and overall diet was hurting her liver.

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Copper’s function

Copper is an essential mineral that plays a big role in your dog’s body. It contributes to enzyme function which regulates systems like breathing and digestion, and it plays a role in your pet’s metabolism.

In addition, copper is vital for the growth of strong bones, healthy skin and fur and optimal brain health. It’s even responsible for the growth of connective tissues that keep ligaments strong and joints free from pain and arthritis.

However, as with most nutrients, balance is key. Too little copper can lead to health problems, while too much can be toxic.

Copper’s role in your dog’s health

Copper serves several important functions in your dog’s body:

Supports enzymes: Copper is needed to produce energy, the breakdown of free radicals, and the formation of connective tissues.
Iron metabolism: Copper is involved in the transport and absorption of iron in the body, helping to prevent anemia.
Pigmentation: It plays a role in producing melanin, the pigment responsible for the color of your dog’s coat.
Nervous system health: Copper contributes to the maintenance of healthy nerve tissue, particularly in the brain and spinal cord.

While copper is essential for a dog’s well-being, an imbalance—either too much or too little—can result in serious health issues.

How much copper should a dog consume?

The exact amount of copper a dog needs can vary depending on their age, size, breed, and health condition. Generally, the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), which sets guidelines for pet food formulations, recommends the following copper levels in commercial dog food:

For adult dogs: 3.3 mg of copper per every pound of dry food they eat. Do not use copper oxide.
For puppies: Approximately 10 mg of copper per kilogram of dry matter.

These values are a minimum threshold, and many commercial dog foods contain copper levels that exceed this minimum to ensure proper nutrition. However, some dogs—especially those with specific health conditions or those eating specialized diets—may require adjustments in their copper intake. (Be sure to discuss this with your vet before changing your dog’s diet.)

What happens when a dog gets too much copper?

Copper poisoning in dogs occurs when they consume too much copper over a prolonged period or in a single large dose. The liver does a good job in regulating copper in the body, but when levels become too high, it can lead to copper buildup in the liver, causing inflammation and damage.

Certain breeds are particularly susceptible to copper toxicity:

Bedlington Terriers
Doberman Pinschers (Copper can lighten the color of their coat)
West Highland and White Terriers
Cocker Spaniels

These breeds have a higher tendency to accumulate copper in their liver, which can result in hepatic copper toxicosis, a condition where excess copper causes irreversible damage to the liver.

Symptoms of copper poisoning

Copper poisoning can develop gradually over time, so it may not be immediately obvious to pet owners. Common symptoms include:

Loss of appetite: A decrease in interest in food is often one of the first signs of illness in a dog.
Vomiting and diarrhea: Digestive upset is common with copper poisoning and can lead to dehydration.
Lethargy: Dogs may appear more tired than usual and show less interest in physical activity.
Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice): This occurs when the liver becomes damaged and can no longer process bile properly.
Abdominal pain: Dogs may show signs of discomfort, such as whining or whining when their abdomen is touched.
Increased thirst or urination: The kidneys can be affected as well, leading to changes in drinking and urination habits.
Severe liver damage: In extreme cases, untreated copper toxicity can lead to liver failure, which may be fatal.

If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, it is crucial to get veterinary care immediately. Diagnosis typically involves blood tests to measure copper levels and liver function, as well as possibly performing imaging or liver biopsy procedures.

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Managing how much copper your dog eats

As a pet owner, it’s essential to be aware of how to regulate your dog’s copper intake, especially if they belong to a breed prone to copper buildup or have liver conditions.

Choose high-quality, breed-appropriate food: Commercial dog food brands are required to follow AAFCO guidelines for nutrient levels, including copper. However, pet owners should also select foods that are formulated specifically for their dog’s breed and health needs. Many premium pet food brands cater to dogs with sensitive livers or breeds predisposed to copper toxicosis, offering foods with controlled copper levels.
Consult with your veterinarian: If you suspect that your dog may be prone to copper toxicity, work closely with your vet to develop a dietary plan that ensures your dog gets the right amount of copper. Your vet may recommend a copper-restricted diet or specific supplements.
Avoid table scraps and unregulated treats: Human food, especially foods that are high in copper (like liver and shellfish), can add unwanted copper to your dog’s diet. Additionally, some treats or raw food diets may contain higher-than-normal levels of copper, so it’s essential to know what’s in the food you are feeding your dog.
Monitor copper levels in supplements: Be cautious when using mineral supplements for your dog. If your dog is already eating a nutritionally balanced commercial food, additional copper supplementation may not be necessary and could lead to an overload.
Regular veterinary check-ups: Regular vet visits are essential for early detection of liver issues and other health problems related to copper toxicity. Routine blood tests can help monitor copper levels and liver function.