Chronic active hepatitis with cirrhosis in the Doberman Pinscher

Chronic active hepatitis with cirrhosis and increased liver copper levels in 8 female (3 spayed) Doberman Pinschers is described. The response to immunosuppressive therapy in two dogs was poor. Laboratory results were not specific for the disease in the Doberman Pinscher and may occur in other liver diseases. The increased copper levels are most probably secondary to hepatocellular cholestasis. Although the pathogenesis is unknown, the disease in the Doberman Pinscher may be regarded as a separate entity.