best human 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.
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 insurancemay 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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Full Review Of Ollie
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.
Price
Full Nulo Review
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.
Full Review Of JustFoodForDogs
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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