10 Best Dog Food for Pancreatitis [2023]

Dogs shower humans with immense love; in return, they expect humans to be kind to them and give them some love and care. As a mother who loves her child, dog lovers love their dogs. We often give treats and scraps from our dinner table to our dogs to show our gesture of love assuming that a few bites won’t cause much harm, but they can. These oily table scraps can risk your dog’s life for a condition called pancreatitis. The actual cause of the disease is unknown, but if your dog has it, here are the best dog food for pancreatitis options to manage it.

The pancreas is a small organ situated close to the stomach and upper intestines. The organ’s primary role is to produce digestive enzymes that help break down protein and fat into smaller and absorbable elements. It also produces insulin, which helps maintain blood sugar levels in the body. It may sound simple, but in actual it is a complex organ. The enzyme it produces depends on inputs from all body parts, including the brain, stomach, and intestines.

10 Best Dog Food for Pancreatitis

In his article, we have reviewed the best dog food for pancreatitis. You’ll find out about the pros and cons, then make up your own mind which is the best choice for your dog. If you are in a hury go directly to products, click on the links here:

1. Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Canine Gastrointestinal Low Fat Canned Dog Food for Pancreatitis
2. Solid Gold Fit & Fabolous Grain-Free Weight Control Dog Food
3. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Healthy Weight Dog Food for Pancreatitis
4. Hill’s Prescription Diet I/D Gastrointestinal Healthy Low Fat Dog Food for Pancreatitis
5. Wellness Core Grain-Free Best Dry Dog Food for Pancreatitis
6. Annamaet Grain-Free Lean Reduced Fat Formula Dog Food
7. Iams ProActive Health Adult Healthy Weight Dog Food
8. Earthborn Holistic Weight Control Dry Dog Food
9. Purina Pro Plan Focus Adult Weight Management Turkey and Rice Canned Dog Food
10. Merrick Grain-Free Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food

What is Pancreatitis?

Pancreatitis can be defined as inflammation of the pancreas that affects a dog’s digestion and ability to absorb nutrients from the food. It is divided into two types- acute and chronic. Acute pancreatitis comes on quickly with severe signs like vomiting, fever, and pain. Chronic pancreatitis comes gradually with mild symptoms. It is caused when the digestive enzymes get started before they get into the stomach or intestine, causing pain to the pancreas itself. What can trigger pancreatitis in dogs?

Causes of Pancreatitis in Dogs

There are several causes of pancreatitis in dogs, such as:

• Overweight
• Eating high-fat content, precisely when it is not a part of the diet
• Pancreatic infection
• Abdominal diseases that affect the pancreas
• High level of fat in the blood
• Medical conditions like Cushing’s disease and diabetes
• Genetic predisposition

The above causes are more like assumptions, as no specific underlying cause is identified in most cases.

Symptoms of Pancreatitis in Dogs

The pancreas has several roles in the body, one of which is producing digestive enzymes. Pancreatitis develops when these enzymes start working before entering the stomach or intestine. The symptoms of pancreatitis may be mild or severe, and it may develop suddenly or gradually. Dogs suffering from pancreatitis suffer from a combination of symptoms such as:

• Abdominal pain
• Lethargy
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Enlargement of abdomen
• Poor appetite

To diagnose better, consult your veterinarian immediately as soon as you notice these symptoms in your dog. What dog food is best for pancreatitis?

10 Best Dog Food for Pancreatitis

Your dog needs a specially formulated diet if it’s suffering from pancreatitis. Look for low-fat canned food that’s easily digestible if your dog suffers from pancreatitis. When your dog has pancreatitis, set a standard low-fat diet for your dog. Foods high in fat content can attack the pancreas leading to the disease. Low-fat food is recommended for dogs with pancreatitis. It is more readily absorbable and allows the pancreas to recover from the inflammation.

How can dogs with pancreatitis eat? If your dog has pancreatitis, it’s likely to remain on a low-fat diet for the rest of its life to prevent further harm to the pancreas. For this, you need to look for the best canned dog food for pancreatitis; here are some of the options given below:

1. Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Canine Gastrointestinal Low Fat Canned Dog Food for Pancreatitis

You’ll have to let go of your belief of grain being wrong for dogs as this product is not grain-free. The main ingredients in this dog food are brown rice, wheat, and barley. There are only three essential nutrients in a dog’s diet. For a dog food to be low in fat content and moderate in protein, you need to get the calories from carbs—the grain in this diet act as a source of carbohydrates.

This veterinary prescription diet has a maximum of 8.5% fat and 20% protein content. It’s low-fat and easily digestible, the perfect dog food for pancreatitis. One can also use it for dogs that have a sensitive digestive system. The product also contains omega-3 cholesterols and prebiotics that help reduce the digestive system’s inflammation and establish a healthy system.

Pros

• Low-fat content
• Low/moderate protein content
• Average fiber content is 3.6%

Cons

• Highly processed ingredients

Overall this product is the best choice if you look for a portion of low-fat dog food for pancreatitis.

 

2. Solid Gold Fit & Fabolous Grain-Free Weight Control Dog Food

The number second on our list is the Solid Gold Fit & Fabolous Grain-Free Natural Chicken, Sweet Potato, and Green Bean Holistic Weight Control Dog Dry food. It is quite evident by its name that its main ingredients are chicken, sweet potato, and green beans. It is a healthy and holistic recipe made from fresh chicken, green beans, and sweet potato. The product has low-fat content and fewer calories making it perfect for a dog suffering from pancreatitis. The protein source in this product is fish oil and turkey, which is suitable for dogs with sensitive digestive systems. It also contains good levels of omega-three fatty acids and prebiotics, which can be helpful for pancreatitis patients.

Pros

• It is available without a prescription
• Low-fat content
• Grain-free product

Cons

• Relatively expensive
• Above-average fiber content

If you look for low-fat dog food for pancreatitis that is grain-free, then this one is for you. It is reviewed as one of the best low cholesterol dog food for pancreatitis. Most people who reviewed the product chose it for dogs suffering from the disease.

 

3. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Healthy Weight Dog Food for Pancreatitis

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Dog food is a veterinarian prescribed food that is a blend of vitamins and minerals. It is a well-renowned brand known for using high-quality products to support a dog’s digestive system. The main ingredients in this product are chicken and fish oil, which are lean sources of protein with potatoes, pea protein, and tapioca starch. It is one of the best products for dogs suffering from gastrointestinal problems.

The Blue Buffalo Life is also suitable for dogs sensitive to food items like wheat, soy, and corn. It has a maximum of 9% fat content, making it the best choice for dogs suffering from acute pancreatitis. The 24% protein content comes from fish oil and chicken, which are easily digestible. The flavor added to the food makes it palatable to encourage sick dogs to eat during their recovery period.

Pros

• Low-Fat content
• Good for gastrointestinal issues
• Easily digestible
• Supports immune system

Cons

• Expensive

The majority of customers who bought the product for their dogs are pretty satisfied. It tastes low-fat and easily digestible, making it a perfect canned dog food for pancreatitis.

 

4. Hill’s Prescription Diet I/D Gastrointestinal Healthy Low Fat Dog Food for Pancreatitis

Hill’s prescription dog food stands on number 3 in our list. It’s easily digestible and works best for dogs with pancreatitis. It has low-fat content, 9% to be precise, with 20% of the protein content. The five main ingredients in this dog food are brown rice, corn gluten meal, corn starch, whole grain wheat, and chicken by-product meal. It also contains chicken liver and pork flavoring to make it palatable and encourage dogs to eat during recovery.

It also contains supplements like prebiotics and antioxidants to reduce inflammation and restore its beneficial microbiota. Besides having a soothing effect on the digestive system, the best part is protecting your dog from crystal formation.

Pros

• Highly palatable
• Low-fat content
• Protects from oxalate urinary crystal formation (for this also check out dog food for urinary health)

Cons

• Contain grains

It is a similar product to the one made by Royal Canin. The food product received the best reviews and is loved by the dogs, incredibly picky eaters.

 

5. Wellness Core Grain-Free Best Dry Dog Food for Pancreatitis

The next on our list is the Wellness Core Grain Free Reduced Fat Dry Dog Food. The ingredients used in the product are Turkey, fish oil, and Chicken meal. It is an advanced natural nutritional food product to fuel your dog’s life with low-fat content, and protein content (33%) is balanced to be a complete package of nutrients your dog needs. It is available in both grain and grain-free recipes and helps maintain healthy body weight. It’s an excellent choice for dogs with pancreatitis as it is highly digestible. The other ingredients used in the products are carrot, peas, pea fiber, lentils, and potatoes. It contains prebiotics and probiotics for a better digestive system. No grains and fillers present may upset the pancreas.

Pros

• Available in grain and grain-free recipes
• Low-fat content
• Boosts immune system

Cons

• Powdery substances cause coughing

Overall, the food formula is the perfect choice for dogs with pancreatitis. It is positively reviewed by the majority of the customers making this brand an excellent choice.

 

6. Annamaet Grain-Free Lean Reduced Fat Formula Dog Food

This dry dog food by Annamaet is a popular choice among dog owners whose dog suffers from pancreatitis. Its primary ingredient is lean meat, and the chicken meal is used as a source of protein in this dog food. It has 30% protein content and a maximum of 9% fat content. It’s considered a low-fat, easily digestible food making it a perfect choice for a dog suffering from pancreatitis. The product is entirely grain-free and has vegetables as a source of vitamins. Its food formula contains acids that support the immune system and optimal mineral absorption.

Pros

• Grain-free food formula
• Low-fat content
• It contains Omega 3 fatty acids

The prebiotics present in the product helps to improve the overall digestive system of a dog. It is reviewed as the best product for overweight dogs and dogs suffering from pancreatitis.

 

7. Iams ProActive Health Adult Healthy Weight Dog Food

The Iams Pro Active Dog food is the best alternative if you are looking for a food product for dogs at risk of suffering another episode of pancreatitis in the future. It is the best product for long-term weight management. The main ingredients in this product are ground whole grain corn, chicken by-product meal, ground whole grain sorghum, dried beet pulp, and ground whole grain barley. The product contains a very moderate amount of protein and fiber, which helps maintain a dog’s active lifestyle without damaging organs like the liver that may have suffered from pancreatitis. It also contains L-Carnitine for weight management and the immune system as weight management can reduce the risk of future pancreatitis episodes.

Pros

• Best for weight management
• Contains L-carnitine
• A moderate amount of protein

Cons

• Most ingredients are plant-based

Overall it is a perfect option for long-term weight management for dogs and those at risk of suffering another episode of pancreatitis.

 

8. Earthborn Holistic Weight Control Dry Dog Food

The Weight Control Dry Dog Food for Earthborn Holistic is the most preferred dog food for dogs suffering from severe pancreatitis. It is grain-free, which means it is made without grains, gluten, or white potatoes. This recipe is perfect as a highly nutritious alternative diet for dogs suffering from pancreatitis. It contains chicken and fish oil as a protein source that helps develop and sustain your dog’s energy and muscle function and is a unique low-fat and low-calorie food formula that helps to keep your dog healthy while reducing the inflammation in the pancreas. It contains fibers in vegetables and fruits like pears, apples, carrots, blueberries, cranberries, and spinach.

Pros

• Available without prescription
• Low-fat content
• A moderate amount of protein
• Affordable

Cons

• Above-average fiber content
• Loads of plant-based ingredients

Most customers have reviewed it as a safe product to use while your dog suffers from pancreatitis. It boosts the immune system and fatty acids that promote healthy skin and coat.

 

9. Purina Pro Plan Focus Adult Weight Management Turkey and Rice Canned Dog Food

If you are looking for a softer option for your dog, you may consider canned low-fat dog food for Pancreatitis from Purina Pro Plan. It’s a simple recipe, and its main ingredients are brown rice and turkey. Turkey and fish oil act as a source of protein, and it contains a maximum of 2% fat content. It is full of flavors making it highly palatable for dogs to eat and easily digestible. It is available in both wet and dry forms. The flavors and antioxidants support a healthy immune system and healthy skin and coat. The low-fat recipe reduces inflammation of the pancreas, thus reducing the risk of another episode of pancreatitis. It is a balanced nutrition diet food suitable for dogs who suffer from pancreatitis and gastrointestinal issues.

Pros

• Very low-fat content
• Easily digestible
• Highly palatable
• A moderate amount of protein content
• Available in wet and dry forms

It is one of the best wet food for dogs suffering from pancreatitis, with almost no negative reviews.

 

10. Merrick Grain-Free Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food

The Merrick Grain-Free dog food is highly digestible and low in fat. It also contains omega fatty acids that promote healthy skin and coat with chondroitin for bones and joint health. The primary ingredients of this product are chicken meal, turkey meal, fish oil, sweet potatoes, and white potatoes. It contains 55% of protein from beef, chicken, fish oil, and turkey. The rest of the vegetables and fruits are a source of vitamin E and minerals.

Pros

• Low-fat content
• It contains Omega fatty acids
• Grain-free

Cons

• An above-average amount of protein

It is a recipe that dogs love. It is reviewed as one of the ideal food products for weight loss, allergies, and pancreatitis.

Above are our top 10 low-fat dog foods for pancreatitis from different brands with different ingredient compositions. All these products are rated best when buying low-fat canned dog food for pancreatitis.

 

What to Look for in Dog Food for Pancreatitis?

As we have mentioned before, you can find suitable dog food without a prescription as well. By planning your dog’s diet, you can avoid further problems caused by the disease while giving all the essential nutrients they need. To set a basic diet plan or food product, you may consult a veterinarian. It will help if you are looking for several things, particularly buying food for your dog suffering from pancreatitis.

Low-Fat Food

There might be so many questions running through your mind that why low-fat food is considered the best for dogs suffering from pancreatitis. Fat is one of the most significant stimuli that causes the pancreas to create digestive enzymes prematurely. Unfortunately, fat is present in almost all dog food and treats. You need to look for a food product with a maximum of 9% fat content and not more than that. If you give your dog wet canned food, it should have not more than 4% fat content. It is always recommended to have the lowest fat content food for your dog with pancreatitis.

Many dog owners opt for food products designed for weight loss as they have less fat content. Low-fat diets do not cause more strain to the pancreas causing further inflammation and pain. It is recommended to feed a low-fat food diet for dogs recovering from pancreatitis.

Protein

There’s a misconception that canine pancreatitis sufferers need less protein content in their diet, which can do further detriment than good. Protein is an important nutrient that a dog needs to maintain muscles and overall health. By depriving protein of their diet, you may make it difficult to fight off diseases and maintain their health.

Simple Formulas

Because there is no particular evidence about what causes pancreatitis, it’s better to go with simple food formulas with identifiable ingredients. Unnecessary fillers and other additives may upset the pancreas, causing inflammation and pain. Stick to simple food formulas and simple ingredients that are easily digestible.

Some dog owners make a mistake in completely changing their dog’s diet plan. While it’s important to stick with low-fat food options, your dog can continue to get benefits from other macronutrients as well. They still need some vitamin E, minerals, and antioxidants in their diet.

Probiotics and Digestive Enzymes

Can a dog recover from pancreatitis? During the recovery process, your dog’s digestive system will be all out of whack, and it will need some time to balance and start working like before. Here comes the role of prebiotics and digestive enzymes, it can help speed up the recovery process without causing stress on the pancreas.

Is Homemade Dog Food Better than Commercial Dog Food for Pancreatitis?

Many manufacturers advertise their product as a complete and balanced diet; you can see a clear difference in the content of food. Premium and reputed selling dog food brands contain a higher quality food with high nutritional value. Another alternative is homemade food. The disadvantage is that it is time-consuming, but some dog owners like it because they know what their dog is eating exactly.

A dog needs a balanced nutrition diet to fight off the diseases. When preparing food for your dog suffering from pancreatitis, you need to know the difference between too much fat and not enough fat. If your dog has pancreatitis, then the fat content in the food should not go more than 10%. Fats play an essential role in reproduction and hormone production in the body. If you include too much fat in a dog’s diet, it may cause inflammation in the pancreas leading to acute or chronic pancreatitis. Dogs require fat content in their food, but unlike humans, you do not need to worry about cholesterol. You need to know how much fat content you need to include, and you are good to go.

Whether you choose commercial food or homemade food for dogs suffering from pancreatitis, always read the ingredients mentioned on the label to know what your dog is consuming.

The Bottom Line

As there is no such cause and cure known for pancreatitis, you need to pay special attention to the diet and monitor your dog’s health condition as a dog owner. Your dog will need your support to live a healthy and happy life. By making a few changes in their diet, you can avoid pancreatitis in dogs.