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Mucous Membranes, Skin, Eyeballs Yellowish (Jaundice, Icterus) in Dogs

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 06.11.2025

Jaundice, also known as icterus, is a condition in which the mucous membranes, skin, and eyeballs turn yellowish. This discoloration is caused by an elevated level of bilirubinBilirubin is a yellow pigment that is produced when hemoglobin from red blood cells is broken down. It is further processed in the liver and then excreted via the bile. Elevated bilirubin levels may indicate liver dysfunction or impaired bile excretion. in the blood, a breakdown product of hemoglobinhemoglobin is an iron-containing protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to the body tissues and carbon dioxide back to the lungs. from red blood cells.

Can Occur with the Following Diseases:

Basics and possible causes

Jaundice in dogs is essentially the result of an imbalanceImbalance refers to an imbalance or disruption of normal function or composition in the body, which can lead to health problems. in bilirubinBilirubin is a yellow pigment that is produced when hemoglobin from red blood cells is broken down. It is further processed in the liver and then excreted via the bile. Elevated bilirubin levels may indicate liver dysfunction or impaired bile excretion. metabolism. BilirubinBilirubin is a yellow pigment that is produced when hemoglobin from red blood cells is broken down. It is further processed in the liver and then excreted via the bile. Elevated bilirubin levels may indicate liver dysfunction or impaired bile excretion. is produced during the breakdown of hemoglobinhemoglobin is an iron-containing protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to the body tissues and carbon dioxide back to the lungs. and must be processed by the liver and then excreted via the bile. An increase in bilirubinBilirubin is a yellow pigment that is produced when hemoglobin from red blood cells is broken down. It is further processed in the liver and then excreted via the bile. Elevated bilirubin levels may indicate liver dysfunction or impaired bile excretion. levels in the blood may indicate problems with the liver, bile ducts, or the destructionDestruction means "demolition." In medicine, it refers to the destruction of cells, tissues, organs, or body parts. The growth of malignant Tumors is also usually accompanied by destruction of the surrounding tissue. of red blood cells.

There are three main categories of causes for jaundice in dogs: pre-hepatic, hepatic, and post-hepatic causes. Pre-hepatic causes refer to an increased destructionDestruction means "demolition." In medicine, it refers to the destruction of cells, tissues, organs, or body parts. The growth of malignant Tumors is also usually accompanied by destruction of the surrounding tissue. of red blood cells, leading to an overproduction of bilirubinBilirubin is a yellow pigment that is produced when hemoglobin from red blood cells is broken down. It is further processed in the liver and then excreted via the bile. Elevated bilirubin levels may indicate liver dysfunction or impaired bile excretion. that the liver cannot effectively process. Common pre-hepatic causes include hemolytic anemias, which can be caused by autoimmune diseasesAutoimmune diseases are conditions in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells or tissues as if they were foreign substances. Examples in dogs and cats include autoimmune hemolytic anemia and systemic lupus erythematosus., infections, or toxins.

Hepatic causes involve direct damage to or diseases of the liver, which impair its ability to process bilirubinBilirubin is a yellow pigment that is produced when hemoglobin from red blood cells is broken down. It is further processed in the liver and then excreted via the bile. Elevated bilirubin levels may indicate liver dysfunction or impaired bile excretion.. The most common hepatic causes include liver inflammation (hepatitis), liver tumors, or cirrhosis. Infections, such as those caused by leptospires, can also damage the liver.

Post-hepatic causes involve the blockage of bile flow from the liver into the intestineThe intestine is the medical term for the gut, including the small intestine (intestinum tenue) and the large intestine (intestinum crassum). It plays a central role in the digestion and absorption of nutrients.. This can be caused by gallstones, tumors in the bile duct area, or pancreatitis. In such cases, the bilirubinBilirubin is a yellow pigment that is produced when hemoglobin from red blood cells is broken down. It is further processed in the liver and then excreted via the bile. Elevated bilirubin levels may indicate liver dysfunction or impaired bile excretion. cannot be properly excreted and re-enters the bloodstream.

Typical accompanying symptoms

Loss of appetite: Dogs with jaundice often show a reduced appetite, as the condition can be associated with discomfort or nausea.
Weight loss: A prolonged loss of appetite can lead to significant weight loss, which is another sign of a serious illness.
Increased drinking and urination: Some dogs may drink and urinate more frequently due to the underlying liver disease.
Vomiting: Vomiting can be a common accompanying symptom, especially if liver function is severely impaired.
DiarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems.: Some dogs develop diarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems., which may indicate an impairment of normal digestion.
Lethargy: A general weakness or fatigue is common, as energy production in the body may be impaired.
AbdominalThe term "abdominal" refers to anything that concerns the belly or the abdomen. It is an adjectival expression used to describe the location, symptoms, or conditions that occur in the abdominal area. pain: Dogs with liver or biliary tract diseases may have pain in the abdominalThe term "abdominal" refers to anything that concerns the belly or the abdomen. It is an adjectival expression used to describe the location, symptoms, or conditions that occur in the abdominal area. area.
Pale gums: In pre-hepatic causes such as hemolytic anemia, the gums may appear pale due to anemia.
Behavioral changes: Dogs may exhibit abnormal behavior due to toxins in the blood that affect brain function.

When to visit the vet?

A visit to the veterinarian is urgently required if you notice jaundice in your dog, as the underlying causes are often serious and require rapid diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and treatment. Do not delay the veterinary visit, as early intervention is crucial for treatment success.

A veterinary emergency exists if, in addition to the yellowish discoloration, symptoms such as severe vomiting, bloody diarrheaDiarrhea refers to the condition of frequent, watery bowel movements, which can be a sign of infections, digestive disorders, or other health problems., extreme weakness, or loss of consciousness occur. These signs may indicate a severe systemic disease or acute deterioration.

In particular, if your dog has a known historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits. of liver disease, biliary problems, or autoimmune diseasesAutoimmune diseases are conditions in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own cells or tissues as if they were foreign substances. Examples in dogs and cats include autoimmune hemolytic anemia and systemic lupus erythematosus., yellowish discoloration should be clarified immediately by a veterinarian to avoid complications.

Symptom recognition for animal owners and veterinary diagnostic procedures

For the pet owner, the detection of jaundice is often possible by observing a yellowish discoloration of the mucous membranes, especially the gums, eyes, and skin. It is important to look at the dog in good light to allow for an accurate assessment.

The veterinarian will perform a comprehensive clinical examination and take a detailed historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits. to narrow down possible causes. Blood tests are crucial to measure bilirubinBilirubin is a yellow pigment that is produced when hemoglobin from red blood cells is broken down. It is further processed in the liver and then excreted via the bile. Elevated bilirubin levels may indicate liver dysfunction or impaired bile excretion. levels and assess liver function. A complete blood count can provide clues to anemia or infections.

Additional diagnostic procedures may include abdominalThe term "abdominal" refers to anything that concerns the belly or the abdomen. It is an adjectival expression used to describe the location, symptoms, or conditions that occur in the abdominal area. ultrasounds to visualize the liver and biliary tract and look for structural abnormalities. In some cases, an X-ray may be necessary. A biopsyA biopsy is a medical procedure in which a small amount of tissue is removed from the body to be examined under a microscope for signs of disease. Biopsies can help diagnose cancer and other conditions. or fine needle aspiration of the liver can be performed to make a definitive diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and determine the extent of liver damage.

What can pet owners do and professional therapy options

As a pet owner, you should consult a veterinarian immediately if you suspect jaundice. In the meantime, make sure your dog gets enough rest and water to avoid dehydrationDehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. This can lead to a number of problems, including headaches, Dizziness, and in extreme cases, renal failure or Cardiovascular collapse.. It is important not to overexert the dog and to provide a stress-free environment.

Avoid administering medications or supplements without veterinary advice, as some substances can further impair liver function. An adapted diet containing easily digestible proteins and low in fat can temporarily help relieve the metabolism but should be done in consultation with the veterinarian.

Observe your dog closely for changes in its condition and note all symptoms to give the veterinarian a comprehensive description. This can be helpful in diagnosing and determining the best treatment strategy.

Outlook on current research

Research on jaundice (icterus) in dogs is increasingly focused on the underlying biological mechanisms and improving diagnostic procedures to identify the causes more precisely. One of the main causes of the yellowish tint of the mucous membranes, skin, and eyeballs is the accumulation of bilirubinBilirubin is a yellow pigment that is produced when hemoglobin from red blood cells is broken down. It is further processed in the liver and then excreted via the bile. Elevated bilirubin levels may indicate liver dysfunction or impaired bile excretion., a breakdown product of hemoglobinhemoglobin is an iron-containing protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to the body tissues and carbon dioxide back to the lungs.. Recent studies are investigating the molecular mechanisms that lead to impaired bilirubinBilirubin is a yellow pigment that is produced when hemoglobin from red blood cells is broken down. It is further processed in the liver and then excreted via the bile. Elevated bilirubin levels may indicate liver dysfunction or impaired bile excretion. metabolism in order to better define therapeutic target structures. There are also advances in imaging technology that help to examine the liver and biliary system in more detail, enabling a more accurate diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients..

In addition to imaging techniques, there are advances in genetic research that address hereditary forms of metabolicMetabolic refers to metabolism, i.e. the entirety of chemical processes that take place in a living organism to enable life processes. Metabolic disorders can cause a variety of Diseases in Dogs and cats. disorders that can cause jaundice. Some researchers are investigating genetic markers that correlate with liver diseases to identify predisposing factors. This research could allow for the early detection of dogs that are at higher risk of developing jaundice.

Another field of research is the development of new therapeutic approaches aimed at supporting liver function and improving bilirubinBilirubin is a yellow pigment that is produced when hemoglobin from red blood cells is broken down. It is further processed in the liver and then excreted via the bile. Elevated bilirubin levels may indicate liver dysfunction or impaired bile excretion. clearance. These approaches include both pharmacological treatments and nutritional approaches that promote liver health. It is also being investigated how anti-inflammatory drugsAnti-inflammatory drugs are medications that reduce inflammation. They can be divided into nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids and are used in dogs and cats to reduce Inflammatory conditions and Pain. and antioxidants can contribute to treatment by reducing oxidative stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. that could impair liver function.

A growing area of research is the investigation of environmental triggers and their effects on the liver health of dogs. Studies show that environmental toxins and certain medications may play a role in the development of liver problems that lead to jaundice. Researchers are working to understand the specific mechanisms by which these substances damage the liver in order to develop preventive measures.

Overall, current research aims to improve both diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in the treatment of jaundice in dogs. By better understanding the underlying mechanisms and developing new technologies, scientists hope to significantly improve the quality of life of affected dogs and optimize the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop..

Frequently asked questions

What causes the yellowish discoloration in dogs? The yellowish discoloration of the mucous membranes, skin, and eyeballs in dogs, known as jaundice or icterus, is caused by an increased concentration of bilirubinBilirubin is a yellow pigment that is produced when hemoglobin from red blood cells is broken down. It is further processed in the liver and then excreted via the bile. Elevated bilirubin levels may indicate liver dysfunction or impaired bile excretion. in the blood. BilirubinBilirubin is a yellow pigment that is produced when hemoglobin from red blood cells is broken down. It is further processed in the liver and then excreted via the bile. Elevated bilirubin levels may indicate liver dysfunction or impaired bile excretion. is a breakdown product of hemoglobinhemoglobin is an iron-containing protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to the body tissues and carbon dioxide back to the lungs. that is normally processed by the liver and excreted via the bile.
How do I recognize jaundice in my dog? Jaundice can be recognized in dogs by a yellowish discoloration of the mucous membranes, skin, and eyeballs. This discoloration is often most evident in the area of the gums, eyes, and ears. If you notice such discoloration, you should see a veterinarian.
What medical tests are performed to diagnose jaundice? Blood tests are usually performed to diagnose jaundice in order to measure bilirubinBilirubin is a yellow pigment that is produced when hemoglobin from red blood cells is broken down. It is further processed in the liver and then excreted via the bile. Elevated bilirubin levels may indicate liver dysfunction or impaired bile excretion. levels. In addition, imaging procedures such as ultrasoundUltrasound refers to sound waves that are above the hearing threshold of the human ear. In medicine, ultrasound is used for diagnostic imaging procedures to visualize internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. or X-rays can be used to examine the liver and biliary tract. In some cases, liver biopsies may also be required.
Can jaundice be treated in dogs? The treatment of jaundice in dogs depends on the underlying cause. If the cause can be identified and treated, such as an infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. or a blockage of the bile ducts, the jaundice can often be treated successfully. Treatment may include medications, surgical procedures, or dietary changes.
Is jaundice contagiousContagious means infectious. Diseases that can easily be transmitted from one animal to another or from animals to humans are referred to as contagious. in dogs? Jaundice itself is not contagiousContagious means infectious. Diseases that can easily be transmitted from one animal to another or from animals to humans are referred to as contagious., as it is a symptom and not a disease. However, the causes of jaundice can be contagiousContagious means infectious. Diseases that can easily be transmitted from one animal to another or from animals to humans are referred to as contagious., such as certain infections that can lead to liver disease.
Can my dog die from jaundice? Jaundice itself is not fatal, but the underlying causes can be serious and potentially life-threatening. Timely diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and treatment are crucial to improve the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. and avoid complications.
How can I prevent jaundice in my dog? The preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. of jaundice in dogs involves avoiding risk factors for liver disease. This includes avoiding toxicToxic means "poisonous" and refers to substances that can have harmful effects on the body, including damage to organs, cells, or disruption of metabolic processes. substances, ensuring a balanced diet, and regular veterinary check-ups. Vaccinations against infectiousInfectious describes the ability of a pathogen to be transmitted from one individual to another and trigger an infection. It also refers to diseases caused by such pathogens. diseases that can affect the liver are also important.
Can a change in diet help treat jaundice? A change in diet can be part of the treatment for jaundice, especially if liver function can be supported by an adapted diet. Diets that are rich in antioxidants and low in fat can promote liver health. However, it is important that such changes are made under the guidance of a veterinarian.
How quickly should I act if I notice signs of jaundice in my dog? If you notice signs of jaundice in your dog, you should see a veterinarian as soon as possible. Early diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. can be crucial to identify the underlying cause and initiate appropriate treatment measures.
Are there long-term effects of jaundice in dogs? The long-term effects of jaundice in dogs depend on the underlying cause and the effectiveness of the treatment. Untreated or serious causes can lead to persistentPersistent means lasting or continuing for an extended period. In veterinary medicine, it can refer to chronic diseases or symptoms that do not subside. liver problems, while with successful treatment, the jaundice can be reversed, and the dog can recover completely.

Are you unsure what is wrong with your pet? Feel free to use our symptom checker for more clarity.