Understanding the Low ALT Gene in Dogs – What It Means for Shiba Inu

The Shiba Inu Connection

Here’s the critical part for Shiba Inu owners and breeders:

Every known Shiba Inu we have tested to date (except 1) carries at least one copy of the low ALT gene—and many have two copies.

That means a low ALT value on a blood panel is normal for most Shibas. It does not automatically mean something is wrong. By itself, this gene is not harmful—it simply changes what “normal” ALT looks like for that dog.

The bottom line:

Your veterinarian needs to know your Shiba’s genetic status and should take a baseline ALT reading while your dog is healthy. This way, they’ll know what’s normal for your Shiba and can detect even small increases over time—because for a Shiba, a rise from 15 to 30 might be as significant as a Labrador’s rise from 50 to 200.

Additional Information on low ALT

In canine health testing, you may come across results mentioning the “low ALT” gene (also called the GPT gene variant). This genetic marker affects how your dog’s liver enzyme alanine aminotransferase (ALT) appears on routine bloodwork.

ALT is a key part of most veterinary chemistry panels and is often used as an early warning sign for liver disease. But in dogs with this genetic variant—especially Shiba Inu—their normal ALT level may naturally be lower than the standard lab reference range, without any sign of illness.

ALT and What It Does

ALT (alanine aminotransferase) is an enzyme made in the liver. When liver cells are damaged, ALT leaks into the bloodstream. High ALT is usually a red flag for liver problems.

For most dogs, “normal” ALT falls within a certain range set by the testing lab. In a dog with the low ALT gene, their baseline ALT is naturally lower than that range. This can be misleading if the vet doesn’t know the dog’s genetic status.

How the Low ALT Gene Works

The low ALT trait is inherited in a recessive pattern:

One copy (carrier) – ALT levels are often on the low end of normal.

Two copies (affected) – ALT levels are naturally well below the lab’s normal range.

By itself, this gene is not harmful—it simply changes what “normal” ALT looks like for that dog.

Why This Matters for Liver Health

The low ALT gene becomes especially important when monitoring for conditions like copper toxicosis, where ALT is often used as a first sign of trouble. In a Shiba Inu with this gene, ALT may stay within “normal” limits—or rise only slightly—even if liver damage is present.

One copy – ALT may rise with disease, but not as dramatically.

Two copies – ALT may remain low even with significant liver injury.

That’s why other diagnostics—such as bile acids testing, ultrasound, and possibly liver biopsy—should be considered if there’s any concern.

Key Takeaways for Shiba Inu Owners

Low ALT is normal in Shibas—most have one or two copies of the gene.

Always get a baseline ALT when your dog is healthy.

Share genetic test results with your vet so they interpret ALT correctly.

Watch for changes over time rather than comparing your dog to the lab’s reference range.

Don’t rely solely on ALT—especially if your Shiba also carries copper toxicosis variants.

Download our Handout for you and your vet.

Related reading:

Copper Toxicosis in Dogs – What Breeders and Owners Should Know