• Regular checkups catch health problems early.dog image by Joanna Redesiuk from Fotolia.com
  
  A dog with problems metabolizing fat may have a serious illness. The first sign of poor fat digestion will be a very light colored stool. Frequent diarrhea may also occur. A vet should examine a dog showing these symptoms if they last for more than a few days. Blood tests or x-rays may be required to diagnose the condition.
  
  

Diabetes Mellitus

• Diabetes works the same way in dogs as it does in humans. Either insulin is not produced or it is not used properly. Poor fat metabolism is an additional symptom of diabetes.
  
  

Liver Disease

• The liver is a complicated organ that removes toxins and waste products from the body. It also helps to digest food and distribute nutrients. One symptom of canine liver disease is poor fat metabolism.
  
  

Canine Pancreatitis

• The pancreas creates digestive enzymes that break down starches and proteins. Canine diabetes and hypothyroidism can lead to poor fat metabolism and pancreatitus. Because the change in fat metabolism occurs before canine pancreatitus, this symptom can lead to early detection.