by 
The Curious Bag
-
Excessive amounts of fat in a dog's bloodstream cause high cholesterol, also known as hyperlipidermia. Signs your dog has high cholesterol include abdominal pain, patches on the skin and seizures, reports NativeRemedies.com.
Diet
A diet high in fat causes obesity, and overweight dogs are at risk of having high cholesterol. NativeRemedies.com says your vet may suggest "changing your pet's diet to a low fat-diet."
Hypothyroidism
According to NativeRemedies.com, hyperthyroidism can cause high cholesterol. The Long Beach Animal Hospital says hypothyroidism occurs "when the thyroid gland does not secrete an adequate quantity of thyroid hormone called thyroxine," and reports that it's common in dogs, especially large breeds, such as chows, Great Danes, golden retrievers and boxers.
Diabetes Mellitus
A secondary disease such as diabetes mellitus, defined by DiabetesinDogs.net as "a condition where the dog's body can't metabolize sugar well," may lead to high cholesterol.
Heredity
NativeRemedies.com notes that some dogs may develop hyperlipidermia if their parents have a history of high cholesterol.
Diagnosis
Your veterinarian will perform a physical exam and tests---including a blood count, biochemistry profile, thyroid concentration and urinalysis---to determine if your dog has high cholesterol.
Source:
Native Remedies: High Cholesterol
RELATED QUESTIONS
Copyright 2023, Wired Ivy, LLC