Can dry dog food cause pancreatitis

Pancreatitis in Dogs: What It Is, What Causes It, and What You Can Do

Growing up, our parents would make some things sound so horrible and scary as a way to instill fear in us, just to prevent us from doing certain things.

Well, when I was in veterinary school, our instructors instilled a warranted and significant fear of the pancreas. Dont anger your dogs pancreas because it isnt forgiving!

What is the pancreas, and what does it do exactly for our pets? It is a V-shaped gland located in the upper area of your dogs abdomen.

The pancreas' primary purpose is to secrete digestive enzymes and other substances that aid in the absorption of nutrients and certain vitamins and minerals from your pets food. Since the pancreas has such an important job, it gets very angry when its normal functions are interrupted.

And what happens when we make the pancreas angry? Pancreatitis. There are two types of pancreatitis acute and chronic.

What Is Pancreatitis in Dogs?

• Acute pancreatitis occurs abruptly with little to no permanent changes to the pancreas.
• Chronic pancreatitis is continuing inflammation that often results in irreversible or permanent changes in the pancreas.

In general, with acute or chronic pancreatitis, inflammation causes activations of enzymes within the pancreas itself. This results in a progressive breakdown of the pancreas' tissue by its own enzymes in short, think of it as eating itself!

Possible Causes of Pancreatitis in Dogs

Typically, in dogs with spontaneous pancreatitis, the cause is unknown. And the symptoms are so variable that an owner can miss a mild bout of pancreatitis but the damage has already begun. Dogs that have acute pancreatitis are likely to have it happen again, eventually creating a chronic condition.

The following is a list of just some of the potential factors that are considered possible causes of pancreatitis:

• Dietary indiscretion: If a dog eats food that they usually dont consume and/or that food is high in fat.

Even if an animal has regularly gotten table food or fatty foods, an adverse reaction to the food can happen at any time. I have had many patients who have gotten table scraps for an extended period and were fine. Then one day, their pancreas decided it had had enough.

• Obesity: Obese dogs have higher fat in their blood compared to thinner dogs. Plus, acute pancreatitis causes an uncontrolled breakdown of visceral fat, which is rich in unsaturated triglycerides releasing unchained fatty acids, which in turn causes necrosis and worsening of pancreatitis.
• High amounts of fat present in the blood: This is a condition some dog breeds are more likely to have than others, such as Miniature Schnauzers. A diet that is high in fat can cause high levels of fat in the blood.
• Blunt abdominal trauma: Injuries to the abdomen, such as being hit by a car, another pet running into them, etc.
• Certain medications or toxins: Any medication or toxin that can lead to inflammation of the pancreas can cause an issue. Some possible examples include some chemotherapy medications, corticosteroid therapies, or certain antibiotics. Your veterinarian will determine what is the best medical care for your pet and advise you of any risks. There are household and environmental toxins such as zinc and organophosphates that have also been linked to pancreatitis.
• Presence of other diseases: Diabetes Mellitus, chronic kidney disease
• Infectious agents: Parvovirus, Babesia canis, upward movement of intestinal bacteria, aberrant movement of intestinal parasites
• Kidney and Liver issues
• Cushing's Disease

At What Age Is a Dog More Likely to Get Pancreatitis?

In reality, any dog can be affected at any age. However, acute pancreatitis is most common in middle-aged or older dogs (older than 7 years old).

Are Some Dog Breeds More Likely to Get Pancreatitis?

Any breed of dog can develop pancreatitis, but Miniature Schnauzers, Miniature Poodles, Yorkshire Terriers, and Cocker Spaniels seem to have a higher rate of occurrence. Why? One reason is that these dog breeds tend to have high blood triglyceride levels (high levels of fat in their blood).

Signs Your Dog Might Have Pancreatitis

Now that you know what pancreatitis is and how it happens, let's look at what the signs or symptoms of pancreatitis are so you know when you need to have your dog checked out by a veterinarian. Clinical signs of pancreatitis the ones you can see can be vague or unclear and not specific to just pancreatitis. Also, there are times when the secondary complications of pancreatitis cause these symptoms. This is why it is important not to delay going to the veterinarian if you see any of these symptoms.

Symptoms of Pancreatitis in Dogs

When dogs get pancreatitis, the general clinical signs involve the gastrointestinal tract.

• Vomiting: This is the most consistent sign but can be absent
• Not eating
• Acting depressed
• Painful in the abdominal area: Your dog will likely be restless, panting, trembling, or look "hunched-up." Here's an example of what "hunched up" might look like:
• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Weakness, or in severe cases, collapse

Symptoms of pancreatitis tend to be vague and nonspecific. Often, when getting diagnosed by the veterinarian, otherillnesses are found. Diagnosis is often made from the combined results of the exam, bloodwork, and an ultrasound of your dog's abdomen.

Treatment for Pancreatitis in Dogs

Management of pancreatitis is predominantly providing supportive care, as there are no specific or standard veterinary treatment protocols (see note below). This involvessupportive care with IV fluids and medications to treat the secondary effects: vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, fever, etc. If another illness or condition is diagnosed at the same time as pancreatitis, measures are taken to address that as well.

Note: Recently, the FDA has conditionally approved the first and only injectable medication, Panoquell-CA1, for managing the clinical signs associated with acute onset of pancreatitis in dogs. A study showed statistically significant improvements over three days.

It is important for dogs to be appropriately selected your veterinarian will know if your dog qualifies. The dogs must have clinical signs associated with acute pancreatitis, and acute pancreatitis must be the top differential for the presenting clinical signs.

It can be used both for hospitalized patients and those treated at home.

Its safe use has not been evaluated in dogs with cardiac disease, liver failure, kidney issues, dogs less than six months of age, dogs intended for breeding, and pregnant or lactating dogs.

Even with aggressive treatment, the prognosis is still questionable.

Unfortunately, there are complications associated with pancreatitis, including:

• Pulmonary edema: Fluid in the lungs
• Cardiac arrhythmias: Irregular heartbeat
• Peritonitis: Inflammation of the lining of the abdomen and pelvic cavity, which can be fatal
• DIC (Disseminated intravascular coagulation): Abnormal functioning of the bodys natural blood clotting and clot-dissolving mechanisms, which can be life-threatening
• Failure to respond to treatment
• Secondary issues can include diabetes and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency

If your pet has had or is suspected of having pancreatitis, change over to a low-fat diet and decrease body weight if they are overweight. Avoid giving too many treats, especially any treats containing fats. Absolutely avoid ANY fatty human foods such as meat, cheeses, etc.

Once your pet has had pancreatitis, they are more likely to have it again. And every time your pet has pancreatitis, their ability to recover each time diminishes. Preventive measures and following your veterinarians treatment plan are crucial for their health. Pancreatitis can be fatal.

How to Prevent Pancreatitis in Dogs

While it isnt possible to prevent all causes of pancreatitis, it is very easy to prevent some of them.

Strictly Monitor and Control Your Dogs Diet

The first significant benefit of this is the prevention of obesity always measure out your dog's food and treats for the day. Be sure that your dog's diet matches their lifestyle and life stage, such as feeding a senior formula versus an adult formula. Your veterinarian can help recommend the best diet for your dog since they know your dog and their health history.

Do not feed a high-fat diet or add fat to the diet. Avoid giving human foods. While some foods, such as carrots and green beans, are considered dog-safe, others, like grapes and raisins, are toxic. Grapes and raisins can cause kidney damage, and damage to the kidneys is a risk factor for pancreatitis.

Besides their potential high-fat content, human food can be high in salt or contain ingredients that are toxic to your pet. For instance, many seasonings added to meats contain onions or garlic, which are toxic for animals. Remember toxins are on the list as a risk factor.

Some food products, such as peanut butter or "keto-friendly" ingredients, may contain xylitol which is extremely toxic to dogs. Always confirm with your veterinarian if a particular food is safe or not to give your dog.

Keto Diets and Dogs

Remember, dogs are not people. Just because humans may do well on the keto diet and "good fat bombs," such as coconut oil, MCT oil, and grass-fed butter, which can be beneficial to people that situation does not apply to dogs. While your dog can have relatively small amounts of coconut oil in order to gain the benefits of MCT (medium-chain triglycerides), it isn't really recommended. The reason for this is two-fold:

• You may give them too much by accident, which can aggravate the pancreas.
• Coconut oil has long-chain triglycerides, and the amount of MCT is very variable from brand to brand.

The MCT contained in dog-specific diets, such as Purina's Brain Health (formerly Bright Mind) formula, are enhanced with botanical oils and are designed to provide your pet with all the benefits of MCT without the dangers.

A small dash of extra-virgin cold-pressed oils, such as olive oil, avocado oil, coconut oil, and flaxseed oil, is safe. Even a small amount given periodically of xylitol-free peanut butter can be okay. But DO NOT give these things to breeds predisposed to high-fat levels in their blood, such as Miniature Schnauzers or Poodles, or dogs with a history of pancreatitis.

Even if you have periodically or even regularly given human foods and your dog seemed fine, pancreatitis can happen at any time.

If your pet has a history of pancreatitis, be sure to let your veterinarian know, as this may determine what medications or treatments they prescribe for any future health issues.

I cannot emphasize enough that pancreatitis is a very serious disease with the risk of serious complications. Prompt and aggressive treatment is needed for the best outcome. Preventing obesity for your dog's entire life and avoiding inappropriate human foods (especially fatty foods) can be key factors in avoiding this disease. You never know when your dog has suffered from this disease in silence, so always take precautions to avoid factors that can anger their pancreas.

8 Best Dog Foods For Pancreatitis: Non-Prescription, Low-Fat, Wet, Dry & More

If your dog has been diagnosed with pancreatitis, feeding her the ideal diet is crucial to manage this condition and keep her as healthy as possible for years to come. Your veterinarian may have suggested a prescription dog food, but is that your only option? While a handful of prescription diets are effective in managing pancreatitis, theyre pricey and may not work out if your pup has food intolerance or allergies to certain ingredients.

Fortunately, you have several non-prescription options, which may be less expensive and super healthy alternatives. Weve done our research and have determined that Ollies fresh chicken recipe, Nulo Freestyle Adult Trim formula, SquarePet VFS low-fat formula, and several others are among the best dog food for pancreatitis.

At A Glance: Best Dog Food For Pancreatitis (Non-Prescription)

What Is Pancreatitis?

A vital organ in the abdomen, the pancreas produces many of the enzymes dogs need to properly digest their food. Pancreatitis is fairly common in dogs and occurs when the pancreas becomes inflamed, causing pain, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Pancreatitis can either be mild or severe and acute or chronic.

I have diagnosed many cases of pancreatitis in dogs over the years, says Dr. Rebecca MacMillan, BVetMed, BSAVA, PGCertSAM, a companion animal veterinarian in Gloucester, United Kingdom. The cases of pancreatitis that I tend to see need initial supportive treatment such as intravenous fluids, anti-nausea medication, and pain relief after we have diagnosed their condition. Theres no specific cure for pancreatitis, but we can make dogs much more comfortable and help to manage their condition through a long-term diet change. One dog I treated lived until the ripe old age of 16 years when carefully controlled on a prescription low-fat diet.

Did You Know?

Pet insurance

may cover testing, treatment, medications, and even prescription dog food for pancreatitis as long as no signs or symptoms appear until after your policy enrollment and waiting periods have passed. Even if you missed the window for pet insurance to cover your pups pancreatitis, securing a policy can still be worth it. Why? Your furry friend could develop future covered health problems that require costly treatment.

What To Feed A Dog With Pancreatitis

In some dogs, pancreatitis can be triggered by consuming high-fat meals or fatty treats/table scraps, explains Dr. MacMillan. Therefore, these dogs do best when managed on a highly digestible, low-fat diet. The diets your vet will usually recommend are prescription or veterinary-approved dog foods, as many pet shop ones still contain levels of fat that are too high.

Some affected dogs need to be fed a diet that contains less than 10% fat on a dry matter basis, though other patients can be managed on diets up to 15%. Some of these diets also contain additional ingredients such as omega-3 fatty acids to help with inflammation, antioxidants, and prebiotic fibers [e.g., flaxseed, beet pulp, chicory root], which help to keep gut bacteria healthy.

Best Dog Food For Pancreatitis

Keeping in mind that low-fat (under 10%) or moderate-fat diets (up to 15%) are best for dogs with pancreatitis, weve chosen our top picks based on fat content, other healthy ingredients to help with this condition, customer feedback, pricing, and other factors. However, every dog with pancreatitis has different dietary needs. Therefore, its crucial to consult with your veterinarian about any dog food you plan on feeding your special-needs pup.

Nutritional Notes

All of the dog foods weve included in our reviews are all-natural and meet or exceed Association of American Feed Control Officials(

AAFCO

) nutritional guidelines (unless otherwise noted). They contain no fillers, by-products, preservatives, or artificial ingredients.

Several of the dog foods we often recommend are grain-free. While the FDA has not found a significant

link between grain-free dog food and heart health

, its wise to talk with your vet before switching your dogs diet. You might also consider using a fresh, grain-inclusive food as a topper on grain-free kibble or mixing in rice to add more nutrients.

Best Wet Dog Food For Pancreatitis: Ollie Chicken Recipe Review

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We believe that fresh dog food is one of your healthiest options to feed dogs with many needs. Fortunately, Ollies chicken recipe may satisfy requirements for dogs who dont require a strict low-fat diet. This grain-inclusive formula has 11.54% (min.) fat content on a dry matter basis and contains such easy-to-digest, whole-food ingredients as rice, carrots, peas, potatoes, spinach, and cranberries.

Whats more, all of Ollies meals are all-natural, human-grade, and personalized for your pups age, breed, current and ideal weight, activity level, and more. And theyre formulated by specialized veterinarians. This chicken recipe also includes salmon oil, which is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Omegas are particularly beneficial for pancreatitis because they can help reduce inflammation of the pancreas. While Ollie requires a subscription, you can cancel at any time.

Price

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Best Dry Dog Food For Pancreatitis: Nulo Freestyle Adult Trim Review

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With a crude fat maximum of 9%, prebiotic fiber, probiotics, and omega fatty acids, the Nulo Freestyle Adult Trim formula is a fantastic option for dogs with pancreatitis. This gluten and grain-free dog food is made from 74% animal-based proteins (cod, turkey, and salmon meal), low-glycemic carbs, and real fruits and veggies, including tomatoes, carrots, blueberries, and apples.

With plenty of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, this formula supports your pups immune and whole-body health. Another plus is the addition of L-carnitine, an amino acid derivative that helps the body metabolize fats more efficiently. Many owners of pups with pancreatitis say this diet works well for their dogs dietary needs.

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Best Low-Fat Dog Food For Pancreatitis: SquarePet VFS Low Fat Review

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Vet-formulated specifically for dogs with digestive problems, this SquarePet formula is an excellent alternative to prescription dog food for pancreatitis (particularly for those allergic to chicken). It only contains 8% (max.) crude fat, making it a fantastic choice for dogs needing a strict low-fat diet. And at 384 kcal/cup, its excellent for pups who can benefit from higher calories than weight control dog food.

Featuring cod, ocean whitefish meal, and no chicken products, this grain-inclusive recipe is crafted with dietary fiber sources, prebiotics, and probiotics for overall healthy digestion. To top it all off, this limited-ingredient formula also includes antioxidants and omega fatty acids for immune health and to reduce pancreas inflammation as well as L-carnitine for optimal fat metabolism.

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Best Moderate-Fat Dog Food For Pancreatitis: JustFoodForDogs Venison Recipe Review

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Another excellent human-grade, fresh dog food option with a moderate fat level is JustFoodForDogs venison and squash recipe. Formulated by veterinarians and pet nutritionists, this gluten, grain, and chicken-free recipe contains 11.11% (min.) fat content on a dry matter basis. Its limited ingredients include ground venison, butternut squash, sweet potatoes, brussels sprouts, cranberries, and anti-inflammatory Icelandic premium fish oil, all fortified with essential vitamins and minerals.

While JFFD doesnt personalize your pups food for her life stage or other factors, you can figure out how much food to buy and how much to feed your dog each day based on her age, weight, and activity level. If you want a personalized diet for your pooch, you can have the companys nutrition team formulate a custom dietbased on your dogs medical records (requires a one-time $250 fee).

Price

Get35% off your first order at JustFoodForDogs. Just usethis linkto get started.

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What About Annamaet, Solid Gold & More?

The following non-prescription, low-fat dog chow didnt make our top picks. But if you havent found the best option for your pups dietary needs, you may want to consider these formulas. Weve included grain-free, grain-inclusive, and beef and chicken-free options for a variety of dietary needs. Theyre also worth considering if you cant afford prescription food or our other top picks (as long as your vet gives you the green light).

Annamaet Grain-Free Lean Low Fat Review

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Made with chicken meal, duck meal, and herring meal* as the primary protein sources, this grain-free, high-protein formula features a maximum of 9% fat content and 350 kcal/cup. Its fortified with omega-3 fatty acids, prebiotic fiber, probiotics, and chelated minerals to support optimal digestion and nutrient absorption.

This recipe also contains cranberries and blueberries as natural antioxidant sources, L-carnitine to boost fat metabolism, and taurine for heart health. Many owners of dogs with chronic pancreatitis say this formula is a fantastic alternative to prescription food for their pups.

*A note about meat meal:Quality pet food brands often use meat meal in their recipes, which can be a very healthy source of protein for your pup (as long as the meat is named, e.g., chicken meal, lamb meal, etc.). A meal can be made from the meat, tissue, organ meat, bone, stomach, and intestines of the named animal. But meal doesnt include by-products like hair, feathers, beaks, heads, blood, hooves, hide trimmings, etc.

Price

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Healthy Weight Review

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If your pup doesnt require a strict low-fat diet and youre looking for an affordable option, Blue Buffalos Healthy Weight formula could be a good fit. Featuring a crude fat content of 9% min and 12% max, this chicken recipe is also a great option if your pup could benefit from fewer calories (324 kcal/cup) or youre wary of grain-free food. It contains such easy-to-digest grains as brown rice, barley, and oatmeal and is fortified with prebiotic fiber and probiotics for enhanced digestion.

The inclusion of flaxseed gives your pup the omega-3 fatty acids she needs to help with pancreas inflammation. It also contains antioxidant and fiber-rich blueberries, cranberries, carrots, and sweet potatoes, andL-carnitine to aid with fat metabolism. Finally, it features Blue Buffalos patented LifeSource Bits, a blend of vitamins, chelated minerals, and antioxidants for immune and whole-body health.

Price

Eagle Pack Reduced Fat Adult Review

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Another grain-inclusive, low-fat (9% max) kibble that many owners find effective in managing their dogs with pancreatitis, Eagle Packs Reduced Fat formula features pork meal and chicken meal as primary animal protein sources. This limited-ingredient recipe includes barley, oat groats, and brown rice as easily digestible grain sources, dried beet pulp and chicory root for prebiotic fiber, and probiotics. Its also fortified with flaxseed, an excellent source of omega fatty acids to help with inflammation.

Price

Solid Gold Fit And Fabulous Weight Control Review

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Solid Golds Weight Control formulas are available in grain-free chicken or grain-inclusive Alaskan Pollock, both containing a maximum of 9.5% crude fat. Theyre also high in dietary fiber (10% max) and fortified with pumpkin, prebiotics, and probiotics to support healthy digestion. Natural antioxidants include carrots, blueberries, and cranberries, and they both also contain anti-inflammatory omega fatty acids. Customers say its a fantastic diet for pancreatitis, sensitive tummies, and weight loss.

Price

Prescription Food For Dogs With Pancreatitis

What are the best prescription dog foods for pancreatitis? Hills Prescription Diet, Royal Canin Veterinary Diet, and Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets are the top vet-prescribed brands for dogs with pancreatitis. Each comes in dry or canned formulas. Heres a quick table to help you briefly compare these prescription dry formulas to the non-prescription formulas we review above. All contain omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and prebiotics.

Top Prescription Dog Foods For Pancreatitis	Fat Content	Grain-Free	Wheat-Free	Corn-Free	Chicken-Free	Starting Price
Hills Prescription Diet i/d Low Fat Dry Dog Food	9.0% max					$52.99 (8.5lb bag)
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Gastrointestinal Low Fat Dry Dog Food	8.5% max					$43.99 (6.6lb bag)
Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric Formula Dry Dog Food	10.5% min					$39.99 (6lb bag)

What Treats Can I Give My Dog With Pancreatitis?

For dogs with pancreatitis, its crucial to avoid fatty treats and table scraps as they can cause flare-ups. Fortunately, you have many healthy snack options for your furry friend. Some fruits like apples, bananas, blueberries, and watermelon can make excellent low-fat and low-calorie treats. Its best to steer clear of citrus fruits as they may upset your pups tummy. You can also safely give your pup carrots for a crunchy, healthy treat.

Be sure to read the labels of any store-bought treats. Again, low-fat treats are necessary, and you may also want to look for low-calorie treats to avoid weight gain. A few of our favorite commercial treats that are suitable for dogs with pancreatitis include:

Should I Consider A Daily Dog Probiotic?

Dogs with chronic pancreatitis can certainly benefit from a daily probiotic supplement, as long as you get the green light from your veterinarian. Probiotics introduce billions of beneficial living bacteria into your dogs gut to restore her tummy health, which can get out of whack with pancreatitis flare-ups. Probiotics also help to strengthen your dogs immune system and have anti-inflammatory properties, which are both beneficial for this condition.

Our Methodology

We analyze hundreds of dog food brands and individual formulas to provide our recommendations for the best nutrition. Each of the following elements helps us determine the best dog food for any dietary need. Our in-depth research includes:

• Scrutinizing all ingredients included in every formula
• Having firsthand experience with our dogs for many of the foods we recommend
• Assessing the guaranteed analysis for every formula, including protein, fat, fiber, and caloric content
• Investigating the latest scientific studies on dogs nutritional needs and benefits of ingredients
• Researching the specific dietary needs for breed sizes and health conditions
• Reading hundreds of customer reviews
• Staying informed on every dog food recall
• Diving into every pet food brands history and reputation
• Keeping on top of pet food trends

Unlike many other review sites, we give unbiased reviews based on countless hours of research. Our goal is to provide our readers with the healthiest options for their pups.

Why Trust Canine Journal?

Sally has researched and reviewed hundreds of different dog food brands and specific formulas. Shes an expert at analyzing dog food ingredients based on current nutritional guidelines and scientific studies for the healthiest food for our pups. Shes part of a team of dog specialists at Canine Journal who have over a decade of experience in researching, testing, and writing about everything you need to know to keep your pup healthy and happy.

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