[Yorkieluv]

When it comes to liver compromised dogs...

If the dog does *not* have a history of HE symptoms, then protein should not be restricted to less than 18% but it should still be vegetarian/dairy protein because it is easiest on the liver...Meat protein causes a build-up of ammonia and causes the liver to work too hard *unnecessarily*.

If the dog does have a history of HE, then there are certain things that should be done to make sure the dog gets as much protein as possible without exhibiting symptoms.
For example, 4-6 small frequent meals helps lighten the load on the liver...They are able to take in more protein a day by doing this because they are getting smaller amounts of protein at any one given time, BUT they are getting more when you add up how much they eat in the entire day...Dr. Center recommends certain antibiotics to help the dog tolerate more protein as well...She also recommends fiber be given...Obviously lactulose is absolutely necessary as well b/c it helps pull the toxins from the bloodstream and sends them to the colon where they are pushed out...Enough lactulose should be given for the dog to have 2 soft stools per day. Then there are the supplements like milk thistle and denosyl that really help protect the liver...

Picky eating, lethargy(lack of energy), odd behavior, dark urine, small amounts of urine, smelly urine, and also the neurological symptoms are all symptoms of liver problems.
Dogs may not exhibit all these...