Are high liver enzymes in dogs a sign of a serious disease?

High liver enzymes in dogs may be a sign of serious liver toxicity, according to PetMD. If left without treatment, liver toxicity in dogs can cause health issues.

Veterinarians check for high or low levels of certain liver enzymes to test the health of a dog's liver, notes PetMD. High levels of enzymes such as creatine kinase are indicative of liver toxicity in dogs, generally caused by exposure to certain drugs or toxins. Liver toxicity can result in severe infections and disrupt a dog's blood-clotting abilities and kidney functions. Extreme toxicity can also cause liver failure, which is likely to be fatal.