How much liver can a dog eat?

Liver stores vitamin A, and 100 g of beef liver can hold many times a dog's daily requirement. Commercial foods are already formulated to supply enough, so large daily servings of liver on top can push intake too high. Long-term excess has been linked to bone and joint problems in dogs.

Liver is also rich in copper, which matters for breeds prone to copper storage problems, such as Bedlington Terriers and some Labradors.

For a 20 kg (44 lb) dog eating complete food, three or four thumbnail-sized pieces of cooked liver, two or three times a week, is a sensible treat level. Toy breeds need only one or two small pieces. Large servings in one go often cause loose stools, even before any vitamin issue.

Chicken, lamb, and beef liver all work. Cook it by simmering or baking without oil or seasoning.

Slice cooked liver thinly and bake at a low temperature, around 100°C (210°F), for two hours until dry and firm. Store in the fridge for up to a week or freeze. Break pieces small for training, and count them in your dog's daily treat allowance.

Liver pate, liver sausage, and chopped liver are seasoned for human tastes and commonly contain onion, garlic, salt, and butter. Cod liver oil is a concentrated supplement rather than a food, so give it only if your vet recommends it and in the amount they suggest. Plain cooked liver from the butcher is the simplest choice.