best dog food for dogs with pancreatitis
Best Dog Food for Pancreatitis
Best Dog Food for Pancreatitis
By Karan French
Updated: March 27, 2024
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Whats the best dog food for Pancreatitis?
Pancreatitis is a dangerous condition which can be life threatening for dogs. Yet, the symptoms arent always severe and can often be mistaken for something less serious.
There are two types of pancreatitis acute and chronic which can both be mild or severe. They are both painful and are caused by enzymes which support digestion activating in the pancreas and damaging/inflaming surrounding tissue and organs.
Although there are multiple causes of Pancreatitis, one of the main causes is a high-fat diet. This could be in the form of dog food but most commonly, dogs who suffer from pancreatitis are being fed human food or fatty scraps such as lamb or buttery treats.
If you suspect your dog has Pancreatitis, you should visit your veterinarian immediately who can diagnose and treat your dogs condition. This will include pain management and monitoring for further complications.
To support the treatment prescribed by your vet, you should change your dogs diet and consider a dog food which is:
- Low fat less than 10% DM
- High quality
- Easily digestible
Here are our top recommendations for the best dog food for dogs with Pancreatitis and learn answers to each of the most frequently asked questions we get about dogs with Pancreatitis.
Lean Low Fat Formula is one of 7 dry recipes included in our review of the Annamaet Grain-Free product line.
Annamaet Grain-Free Lean Low Fat Formula derives the bulk of its meat protein from chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33.3% protein, 7.8% fat and 50.9% estimated carbs resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 23%.
Read our review of the full Annamaet Grain Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, field peas, lentils, potato, tapioca Texture Dry Type Grain-Free Protein Percentage 33.3% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Dogs Eagle Pack Reduced Fat Adult is one of 7 dry recipes included in our review of the Eagle Pack product line.
Eagle Pack Reduced Fat Adult derives the bulk of its meat protein from pork. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 26.7% protein, 6.7% fat and 58.7% estimated carbs resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 25%.
Read our review of the full Eagle Pack Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Pork meal, dehulled barley, peas, ground brown rice, oatmeal Texture Dry Type Grain-Free Protein Percentage 26.7% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at chewy.com"About 5 years ago, my then 9 year old dachshund got very ill and was diagnosed with chronic pancreatitis. This food is low in fat enough to keep him from having anymore episodes. I also add it to my two older dogs' kibble to keep their weight down, since they are seniors and less active."
Nulo Freestyle Cod & Lentils Recipe Grain-Free Adult Trim is one of 9 dry recipes including in our review of the Nulo Freestyle product line.
Nulo Freestyle Cod & Lentils Recipe Grain-Free Adult Trim derives the bulk of its protein from cod. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33.3% protein, 7.8% fat and 50.9% estimated carbs resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 23%.
Read our review of the full Nulo FreeStyle Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned cod, turkey meal, salmon meal, lentils, yellow peas Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 33.3 AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at nulo.com"Nulo FreeStyle Adult Trim Dog Cod and Lentils is a hit in my home! My dogs absolutely love it but most of all I love it. I love that it is healthy for them and not filled with by products and grains and fillers. One of my pups can't have those ingredients due to seizures so this food is something he can eat without getting sick. We all love the high meat diet of this dog food! I highly recommend! I received this product for free in exchange for my honest review."
Natural Balance Fat Dogs Chicken & Salmon Formula Low Calorie is one recipein our review of the product line.
Natural Balance Fat Dogs Chicken & Salmon Formula Low Calorie derives the bulk of its meat protein from chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 28.9% protein, 8.3% fat and 54.8% estimated carbs resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 29%.
Read our review of the full Natural Balance Fat Dogs (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, salmon meal, chickpeas, dried peas, oat groats Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 28.9 AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at chewy.com"My dog almost died from pancreatitis and a month after doctor visits, treatments, and getting her stable I spent soo much money trying specialty foods but my dog kept having flare ups so we would have to go back to home-cooked chicken and water to get her stable again. However, after 6 months of this craziness I found this dog food. My dog loved it immediately and this has been the only food to keep my dog healthy and happy. My dog loves the food so much I can even use it as a treat from time to time as well, and the best part is she has been flare up free for 1.5 years now."
6 fresh recipes included in our review of the JustFoodForDogs product line.
JustFoodForDogs Venison & Squash derives the bulk of its meat protein from venison. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 50% protein, 11.1% fat and 30.9% estimated carbs resulting a fat-to-protein ratio of about 22%.
Read our review of the full Just Food for Dogs (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Ground venison, butternut squash, sweet potatoes, brussels sprouts, cranberries Type Grain-free, fresh Protein Percentage 50 AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at justfoodfordogs.com"Since I started feeding my pets this food they refuse to eat anything else (and thats sayin something). They have more energy and, not to be gross, but their poops are healthier too! I have a big dog with an expected life span of 8 years, and Im hoping that feeding him a healthier and more balanced diet will give him a longer and happy life. Well worth the cost!!"
More Top Picks
To view more top dog foods by category click the link below that best meets your personal feeding needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of pancreatitis in dogs?
Symptoms of pancreatitis in dogs are varied, and can be mild enough that you wont suspect anything is wrong. If your dog displays any of the below symptoms, keep a close eye on them, but if they display more than one, call the vet immediately:
- Diarrhoea
- Loss of appetite
- Dehydration
- Hunched back
- Repeated vomiting
- Bloated abdomen
- Fever
- Weakness
- Lethargy
How is pancreatitis in dogs diagnosed?
Diagnosing pancreatitis can be difficult and multiple tests will need to be run. A veterinarian or hospital will:
- Take a blood test to measure pancreatic enzymes
- Look at your dogs stomach, heart, gums
- Take your dogs temperature
- Analyze your dogs medical history
- Conduct a radiograph or ultrasound
A combination of the above methods will help to build a bigger picture of your dogs health and evaluate whether there are any other conditions affecting them.
How is pancreatitis in dogs treated?
As pancreatitis in dogs has many causes and symptoms, the treatment is also varied and depends on which type of pancreatitis has been diagnosed.
Most treatments focus on pain management and preventing the condition from advancing. The sooner you can get your dog treated for pancreatitis, the better. Your veterinarian may suggest:
- IV fluid therapy
- Pain relief medication
- No food or water for 24 hours
- Antiemetic or anti-inflammatory medication
- Change of diet
- Smaller meals
- Regular monitoring
Which human foods can cause pancreatitis in dogs?
Fatty foods are a common cause of pancreatitis in dogs, as they can trigger the release of pancreatic enzymes to break down and digest the fat.
A dog with underlying pancreas issues may already be struggling with enzymes not being released correctly or enzymes reacting in the pancreas and inflaming surrounding tissue. So fatty foods will worsen symptoms.
The most common types of human foods for your dog to avoid are:
- Fatty meat e.g lamb, pork, turkey, bacon, steak
- Chicken wings or ribs
- Animal skin
- Gravy made with meat juices
- Butter and dairy fats
This list is not exclusive so its best to avoid giving your dog table scraps and seek advice from your veterinarian about which dog food might be best.
12 Best Dog Foods for Pancreatitis 2023 (Premium & Budget)
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Last Updated on April 21, 2023
Pancreatitis can be deadly, and the diet that you feed your dog is key to controlling this horrible condition. Picking the best dog for food pancreatitis can make all the difference in your dogs health.
A low-fat diet is important, but there are several other considerations to take into account. Thats why weve rounded up the best food options for your best friend.
Top 5 Picks for Best Food for Dogs with Pancreatitis
What are the Best Low-Fat Dog Foods to Feed a Dog with Pancreatitis?
These foods are all formulated for dogs who suffer from health issues, whether thats obesity or pancreatitis, in mind.
You can choose wet, dry, grain-free, or even dehydrated food depending on your needs.
Best Dry Dog Food for Pancreatitis (With Grains)
1. Hills Prescription Diet i/d Low Fat Dry Dog Food
Our rating: 4.5Top ingredients: Brewers Rice, Corn Starch, Corn Gluten MealType: Dry
This food is made specifically for dogs who need to avoid too much fat in their diets. Contains ginger and prebiotics to help ease upset stomachs and Omega-3 fatty acids.
This food requires veterinarian approval and can be used short or long-term to support your pups health.
Pros:
- Low-fat
- Contains lots of antioxidants
- Whole oats and barley to support digestion
Cons:
- Rice, corn and wheat make up the bulk of the food
- Contains dried beet pulp
- Some dogs who tried this kibble didnt like the taste or smell of it
CHECK PRICE HERE
2. Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Gastrointestinal Low Fat Dry Dog Food
Our rating: 5Top ingredients: Brewers Rice, Chicken By-Product Meal, WheatType: Dry
Featuring highly digestible proteins and antioxidants to promote a healthy immune system, this food is ideal for fur babies who suffer from pancreatitis. This food requires vet authorization.
Pros:
- Good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fat
- Psyllium husk promotes digestion
- Fish oil may help prevent pancreatitis
Cons:
CHECK PRICE HERE
3. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Healthy Weight Dry Food (Chicken & Brown Rice)
Our rating: 5Top ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown RiceType: Dry
With real chicken as its sole protein source, this kibble is made with whole grains and vegetables without excess fat, which makes it perfect for pups with an inflammation of the pancreas.
Pros:
- Chicken is the first ingredient
- Contains flaxseed, blueberries, cranberries, and peas
- Low fat
Cons:
- Pea and potato starch are of little nutritional value
CHECK PRICE HERE
4. Nutro Natural Choice Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food (Chicken & Brown Rice)
Our rating: 5Top ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Rice BranType: Dry
Made to help dogs maintain a healthy weight, this pet food is also helpful for pups with pancreatitis. It has a healthy mix of carbs, protein, and fat with no GMOs, corn, wheat, or soy.
Pros:
- Real chicken is the first ingredient
- Contains coconut, pumpkin, kale, spinach, and lentils
- Low-fat
Cons:
- Contains dried beet pulp
- Contains tomato pomace
CHECK PRICE HERE
Best Dry Dog Food for Pancreatitis (Grain-Free)
5. Wellness CORE Grain-Free Reduced Fat Turkey & Chicken Recipe
Our Rating: 5Top ingredients: Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal, Chicken MealType: Dry
This healthy grain-free food has real fruits and veggies along with the turkey. Its made to help dogs lose or maintain their weight and lacks soy, wheat, or gluten. Features fish oil, which can help dogs with pancreatitis.
Pros:
- No artificial additives or preservatives
- Carrots, spinach, broccoli, kale, parsley, and apples
- Contains probiotics
Cons:
- Higher fat than some recipes
CHECK PRICE HERE
6. Merrick Grain-Free Healthy Weight Recipe Dry Food
Our Rating: Top ingredients: Deboned Beef, Chicken Meal, Sweet PotatoesType: Dry
- Short description: (50-250 words) in a paragraph form. Include recipes key features.
Pros:
- Has probiotics and antioxidants
- Features apples, blueberries, and real meat
Cons:
- Higher fat than some other recipes
CHECK PRICE HERE
7. Earthborn Holistic Grain-Free Weight Control Dry Food
Our Rating: 5Top ingredients: Chicken Meal, Peas, TapiocaType: Dry
If your dog is suffering from severe pancreatitis, this food is a good option for weaning them back onto regular food. It has flaxseed, fruits, and veggies, and probiotics to support gut health.
Pros:
- Lots of fiber to support good digestive health
- Low-fat dog food
Cons:
CHECK PRICE HERE
8. Blue Buffalo Freedom Senior Chicken Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Our Rating: 4.5Top ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Potatoes, PeasType: Dry
Grain-free and packed with LifeSource Bits, which have antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins, this food is made to keep your pup healthy. Its ideal for older dogs who have weight or digestive issues.
Pros:
- Features fish oil
- Chicken is the first ingredient
- Flaxseed for Omega 6 and Omega 3 fatty acids
Cons:
- Contains tapioca and tomato pomace
- Higher fat than some other recipes
CHECK PRICE HERE
Best Dehydrated Dog Food for Pancreatitis
9. The Honest Kitchen Grain-Free Dehydrated Dog Food
Our Rating: 5Top ingredients: Dehydrated Chicken, Organic Flaxseed, Dehydrated PotatoesType: Dehydrated
Dehydrated food can be a great option for dogs with pancreatitis. This food has free-range chicken and lots of fruits and veggies. No corn, wheat, or soy. Its made in the USA with human-grade ingredients.
Pros:
- Real apples, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, cabbage, and bananas
- Human-grade ingredients
- Lots of fiber
Cons:
- High fat at 15 percent
- Contains honey, a sweetener
CHECK PRICE HERE
Best Wet Dog Food for Pancreatitis
10. Hills Prescription Diet i/d Low Fat Canned Dog Food
Our rating: 5Top ingredients: Water, Rice, Pork LiverType: Wet
This prescription was developed with nutritionists. It has prebiotics and ginger to support a healthy gut.
It was developed with experts with a low level of fat to help dogs suffering from pancreatitis. The extra water helps dogs recover from dehydration.
Pros:
- Features pork and turkey liver
- Very low fat
Cons:
CHECK PRICE HERE
11. Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Gastrointestinal Low Fat Canned Dog Food
Our rating: 4.5Top Ingredients: Water, Pork By-Products, Pork LiverType: Wet
Low in fat, but high in flavor, this food is perfect for dogs who need a low-fat diet. Contains fish oil and lots of healthy fiber. This food requires a prescription, so talk with your vet.
Pros:
- Very low fat
- No artificial fillers
Cons:
- Contains corn
- Contains dried beet pulp
CHECK PRICE HERE
12. Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric Formula Canned Dog Food
Our rating: 5Top ingredients: Meat By-Products, Water Sufficient For Processing, Barley, Chicken, RiceType: Wet
This prescription food is made for pups with gastrointestinal issues. Its very low in fat and contains mild ingredients to ease upset stomachs and meet your dogs needs.
Pros:
- Very low fat
- Contains fish oil
- Supports digestive health
Cons:
CHECK PRICE HERE
What do you need to know about Pancreatitis?
What is Pancreatitis?
The pancreas is an exocrine organ that controls blood sugar and helps the body digest food. Humans have one, and so do dogs. Pancreatitis is a condition that causes a dogs pancreas to become inflamed.
In a normal dog, the organ releases enzymes into the small intestine that help your pup digest their food. But when a dog has pancreatitis, the enzymes start working before they hit the small intestine.
This can cause inflammation, damage, and extreme pain.
Acute vs. Chronic Pancreatitis
Acute pancreatitis is when an attack comes on suddenly. Its particularly concerning because it can become life-threatening rapidly if not addressed.
Chronic pancreatitis means that the condition has developed slowly over time.
You may not notice any symptoms until the situation becomes serious. This is more common in a dog who has had repeated bouts of pancreatitis.
What are the causes of Pancreatitis in dogs?
Pancreatitis can be caused by a high-fat diet, and sometimes, high protein makes it worse. This is one of the most common causes of acute pancreatitis.
It can also be more common in dogs who are obese or who have diabetes. Trauma to the organ can also cause the organ to fail.
Human food is particularly concerning. A high-fat human food like a big old piece of butter could cause an attack.
Dogs who are on medications like potassium bromide, phenobarbital, estrogen, azathioprine, diuretics, or cholinesterase inhibitors are more at risk.
Some breeds, like Miniature Schnauzers and Toy Poodles, and some toy and terrier breeds are predisposed.
What are the symptoms of Pancreatitis in dogs?
Signs that your dog has pancreatitis include a hunched or arched back, a bloated stomach, and weakness.
Your dog might also be dehydrated, have a loss of appetite, and may have a fever. If you touch your dogs belly, it may cause them pain.
They may also vomit repeatedly and may have diarrhea, as well.
Pancreatitis can be mistaken for a number of other diseases, so its important to talk to your vet if you suspect that your pup has this disease.
Left unchecked, it can kill your dog. So its crucial to maintain your dogs overall health.
Complete Best Dog Food for Pancreatitis Buyers Guide
Choosing the right food is key in preventing this disease and in helping dogs who have chronic pancreatitis.
A susceptible dog needs a low-fat diet helps, as does avoiding giving your dog high-fat human food.
What to look for in dog foods for dogs with pancreatitis
So we know what to avoid when feeding a dog with pancreatitis (fat!), but what do dog owners give a dog to help support a healthy digestive system?
Aim for a diet that is high in fiber, high in lean protein, and low in fat.
Foods with fewer ingredients, less processed ingredients, and simple formulas are best.
Look for foods that contain probiotics and digestive enzymes, as well as fish oil, vitamin E (with selenium), vitamin C, beta carotenes, and methionine.
With a raw diet, still check with your trusted vet if it will do more good than harm. Also, avoid feeding any human food unless it is part of a vet-approved homemade diet.
Mild foods like pumpkin, sweet potatoes, and rice can help a dogs body digest more easily. Other high-fiber foods like carrots, oats, and peas can also help by supporting gut health.
Avoid high-fat foods and treats like red meat, organ meats, fried foods, sugars, or dairy.
Wet, Semi-Moist, or Dry? Which food is best for your dog suffering from Pancreatitis?
Generally, each type of dog food has its own pros & cons, but still, every dog is different and has certain nutritional requirements.
A dog thats suffering from a bout of pancreatitis might benefit from temporarily eating wet food to help them stay hydrated.
Lots of companies, like Eagle Pack and Science Diet, make kibble and dry food just for dogs with these types of issues.
To grain or not to grain: Do dogs need grain-free food for pancreatitis?
Dogs with pancreatitis need lots of fiber to help their digestive system work properly. If you can find grain-free food with lots of fiber, great!
Otherwise, stick to foods with grain to help ensure your dog is as healthy as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much should a dog with pancreatitis eat?
Once your dog is diagnosed, your vet will likely advise you to withhold all food for a day or so. Then, slowly return to normal amounts of food.
Some dogs will need to be on a special diet for the rest of their lives in severe cases, while some may be able to return to their normal diet.
If your dog has chronic pancreatitis, youll want to feed them smaller mealsmore frequently, though they can still eat the same amount of food that they always have.
Can you give homemade food for pancreatitis to your dog?
You can certainly feed your dog homemade food if they have pancreatitis, but youll want to make sure that you arent feeding them food thats high in fat.
Its best to talk to your vet to develop a healthy meal plan, especially with raw food.
Should you give treats to a dog with Pancreatitis?
Human treats are a no-no, and dog treats should be limited.
Only feed treats that are high-quality and low-fat. Dont give into those sweet eyes begging for a treat. Its for your dogs own health.
How is pancreatitis treated in dogs?
Theres no good home remedy for treating dogs with pancreatitis. You must get them to the veterinarian as quickly as possible!
Theyll likely give intravenous fluid, antiemetic medication, and will ask you to withhold water and food for 24 hours while the pancreas recovers.
What are tips for managing pancreatitis with diet?
Make sure to keep your dog on a low-fat diet and always keep plenty of water available. While there isnt any hard science, yet, it appears that supplementing your dogs diet with fish oil might help.
Vitamin E with selenium, vitamin C, beta-carotene, and methionine may also help prevent pancreatitis. A supplement that contains pancreatin may also help.
On the other hand, all those good probiotics that we try to feed our pets may actually make acute pancreatitis worse.
If your dog has had pancreatitis, be sure to talk to your vet to figure out whats best for your dog.
How to avoid pancreatitis in pets?
Consider supplementing with fish oil and the other vitamins mentioned above. Be sure to watch the fat content in your dogs diet and dont give your pup any table scraps!
Consider feeding your dog three or four times a day rather than once or twice. This helps reduce the load on the pancreas.
Finally, if your dog is in one of those high-risk categories, be sure to have their amylase and lipase levels checked through a blood test at least once a year, if not more.
Helping your Pup with the Best Dog Food for Pancreatitis
Picking food that helps support your dogs health is extremely important if he or she has pancreatitis.
Diet is always important, but its particularly so when it comes to pets with health issues.
Your vet is the best person to advise you on how to handle the situation.
They will likely recommend a healthy, low-fat food that is approved by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).
By choosing healthy food, you increase the chances that your dog will feel good.
Not only can the right food help ease abdominal pain and other issues that come with pancreatitis, but it can help prevent it in the first place.
Let us know which food you choose to go with and how your dog does on their new diet!
Reference
Cess Gamas( Head of Content Marketing and Editor )Cess is the Head of Content Writing at K9 Web and a passionate dog care expert with over 5 years of experience in the Pet Industry. With a background in animal science, dog training, and behavior consulting, her hands-on experience and extensive knowledge make her a trusted source for dog owners.
When not writing or leading the K9 Web content team, Cess can be found volunteering at local shelters and participating in dog-related events.
