Gallbladder mucoceles used to be rarely reported, but the condition is now regarded as the most common cause of biliary disease in dogs. There are some strong breed predispositions for gallbladder mucoceles; The Shetland Sheepdog, Cocker Spaniel, Miniature Schnauzer, Border Terrier, Pomeranian, Bichon Frise and Chihuahua are at higher risk. Learn more about Gallbladder and Biliary Disease in Dogs.

The disease is associated with a number of risk factors and making a timely diagnosis is critical to the successful management of patients. Dr. Cynthia Leveille-Webster - a veterinary internal medicine specialist - shares her approach to monitoring patients after making the diagnosis, and factors that prompt a recommendation for elective surgery to remove a diseased gallbladder: