Cholesterol: What Every Dog Owner Should Know

High cholesterol sounds like a human problem, but pets can be affected too. Cholesterol is a fat-like substance your dog's body needs in small amounts. Too much can show up with other health issues, and it often signals an underlying problem rather than being the disease itself.

How do you tell if cholesterol is an issue? There are rarely obvious signs. Vets usually find high cholesterol during routine blood work or when checking for liver, thyroid, or pancreatic disease. If your dog has a dull coat, weight changes, vomiting, or ongoing skin problems, ask your vet to check a lipid panel.

What causes high cholesterol in dogs? Breed can play a role — some breeds naturally have higher levels. Age and body condition matter, but most often high cholesterol comes from metabolic or hormonal issues like hypothyroidism or Cushing’s disease. Certain medications and pancreatitis can raise levels too.

Simple steps to manage cholesterol at home. First, follow your vet's recommendations. That may include treating an underlying disease. Diet changes help a lot. Switch to a balanced, vet-approved diet lower in saturated fats. Add fish oil supplements rich in omega-3s after checking dose with your vet. Regular, moderate exercise helps weight and lipid profiles. Avoid table scraps and fatty treats.

Testing and treatment options. Vets use blood tests to measure total cholesterol and other lipids. If levels are high, they’ll look for causes with thyroid tests, liver panels, and possibly abdominal imaging. Treat the root cause first. In rare cases where cholesterol poses serious risk, vets may recommend medications or prescription diets designed to lower lipids.

When to call the vet now. If your dog is suddenly lethargic, has unexplained weight loss, severe vomiting, or appears jaundiced, seek care immediately. Those signs can point to pancreatitis or liver failure, conditions tied to lipid disorders.

Practical tips for daily care. Keep feeding consistent meals and measure portions. Read pet food labels and choose formulas with named protein sources and moderate fat. Keep a stash of low-fat treats for training. Schedule a yearly wellness panel that includes a basic lipid check, especially for older dogs or breeds at risk.

Linking cholesterol to overall wellness. Cholesterol doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Heart, liver, hormonal, and digestive health all connect. Tools like dietary omega-3s and regular activity support multiple systems at once. Talk openly with your vet about long-term plans and realistic goals for your pet’s health.

If you want help picking a diet or understanding your dog's bloodwork, bring lab results to your next visit and write down questions beforehand. Small changes at home often make the biggest difference.

Keep a simple log of meals, treats, and activity for two weeks before a vet visit. That helps spot patterns. Include any supplements, over-the-counter meds, and changes in behavior. If you switch foods, transition slowly over seven to ten days to avoid digestive upset. Small records save time and guide better care decisions for your dog. Ask questions early.