Best Dog Foods for Pancreatitis: Low Fat and Dry Dog Foods for Pancreatitis Problems
There is nothing as heartbreaking as watching your dog in extreme pain. It is even devastating when there is nothing you can do to reduce the pain. Pancreatitis is a serious disease and, if left untreated, causes extreme pain and can be fatal.
Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas. The pancreas produces enzymes that support digestion. In normal situations, the enzymes are activated when they reach the intestine. But in pancreatic dogs, the enzymes become active immediately after they are released, thus inflaming the pancreas. In severe cases, the enzymes can digest the pancreas, causing extreme pain.
There is no well-known cause of pancreatitis. However, some factors can trigger or escalate this condition. Diet plays a key role in preventing and controlling pancreatitis. But a vet to the vet is paramount, as diet alone won’t help. This article digs deep into the causes, symptoms, and treatment of pancreatitis. It also gives you the best dog food to combat pancreatitis. Let’s dive in.
What causes pancreatitis in dogs?
Below are the common triggers for pancreatitis in dogs:
- A high-fat diet: This is the main cause of pancreatitis. Serving human food or table scraps escalates the problem.
- Obesity
- A history of poor diet
- Hypothyroidism
- Diabetes Mellitus
- Some medications include potassium bromide and estrogen.
- Genetic predisposition
- Severe blunt trauma
Choose a healthy diet for your dog. Avoid table scraps and human food, especially during thanksgiving. Keep your buttery cookies out of your dog’s reach.
What are the symptoms of pancreatitis in dogs?
Here are the main symptoms to watch out for:
- Pain or distension of the abdomen
- Hunched back
- Frequent vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Dehydration
- Lethargy
- Fever
- Poor appetite.
If your dog has one or two symptoms infrequently, you may monitor for any changes. However, if your dog is displaying most or all of the above symptoms, you should rush to the vet.
Diagnosing pancreatitis in dogs
Many methods can be used to diagnose pancreatitis in dogs. Listed are the major ways of diagnosing pancreatitis:
- Blood tests to determine the number of pancreatic enzymes.
- Ultrasounds. These help rule out other health problems.
- Physical examination. The vet will carry out a physical examination of the heart, gums, temperature level, and stomach.
- Fine needle aspiration of the pancreas.
- Your dog’s medical history.
A single test method may not be conclusive. Using two or more methods helps with a full diagnosis.
Treatment for pancreatitis in dogs
After diagnosis, your dog needs proper treatment. Treatment depends on your dog’s symptoms and the test results. Treatment aims at keeping your dog’s physiological support while ensuring the pancreas has ample time to heal.
Common treatment options include fluid therapy to hydrate your dog and medications like antibiotics to treat and prevent infections. Anti-nausea drugs are also administered to ensure your dog can eat. Other treatment measures include withholding food for 24 hours. This gives the pancreas time to rest.
If the pancreatitis was caused by a certain drug, your dog’s vet will remove the drug and if it was diet-related, your dog will be on a prescription diet for some time. For severe pancreatitis, aggressive treatment including plasma transfusion, surgery, and tube feeding may be necessary.
What are the properties of the best dog food for pancreatitis?
The food you give your dog is key as it determines whether your dog’s condition improves. Here are the qualities to look for in the best dog food for pancreatitis:
- Low-to-moderate fat values: The pancreas is responsible for breaking down fats, and serving a fatty diet overworks the pancreas. A low-fat diet also lowers the risk of obesity, which contributes to obesity. In addition, the diet ensures low rates of recurrence. The fat should however be from high-quality animal fat, as plant-based fats or those from unknown sources can be hard on your dog’s pancreas.
- Reasonable protein content: Dogs need protein to strengthen their muscles. Lean protein sources are best for pancreatic dogs. A high protein content means lots of meat and fat, which escalate the problem. Foods with moderate fat values are preferable. A low protein value may mean more plant-based protein sources, which are not healthy for dogs.
- L-carnitine helps break down excess fat into useful energy. This lowers the risk of fat accumulation and eases the workload on the pancreas. It also minimizes the chances of obesity. L-carnitine is also great for your dog’s cognitive and cardiac wellness.
- Highly-digestible carbohydrates: Highly-digestible carbs do not stimulate the secretion of pancreatic enzymes as much as fats do. This eases the pancreas job. Fiber, probiotics, and beneficial enzymes also support digestibility.
- Pancreatic dogs need lots of fluids. If you opt for dry dog food, ensure your dog can easily access water. Pancreatitis causes dehydration.
- High palatability is crucial as it encourages sick dogs to eat. Pancreatic dogs have poor appetites and need richly-flavored food to tempt them.
- Other supplements including vitamin C, vitamin E (with selenium), methionine, and beta-carotene are known to reduce the effects of pancreatitis. Real fruits and vegetables provide these crucial supplements. Prebiotics and antioxidants also play a key role in preventing further infections and protecting the pancreas against free radicals that cause inflammation.
- Look for energy-dense dog food to support the energy needs of sick dogs with poor appetite. A cup should provide sufficient energy, as sick dogs can only take a bite or two.
- Go for dog food with simple formulas and avoid unnecessary fillers including wheat, corn, and soy as they can worsen the sickness.
- Avoid foods with added sugar. Your dog’s pancreas is already compromised, and added sugars will make it worse.
Selecting the best foods for pancreatitis is hectic. However, it is worth the sacrifice as it lowers the risk of recurrence, speeds recovery, reduces the risk of allergies, supports a healthy weight, and minimizes digestive issues for your dog’s happiness. We have also made the process less hectic by giving you the best dog food for pancreatitis.
Which dog breeds are prone to pancreatitis?
Some dog breeds are susceptible to pancreatitis due to their genetic make-up. Pancreatitis is also common in middle-aged and older female dogs that are overweight. Here’s a list of dog breeds that are predisposed to pancreatitis:
- Yorkshire Terriers
- Cocker Spaniels
- Miniature Schnauzers
- Poodles
- Collies
- Boxers
- Daschunds
Knowing the dog breeds that are prone to pancreatitis helps when buying or adopting a new dog. You will be able to take precautionary measures to lower the risks of developing pancreatitis.
What are the best 5 brands of dog food for pancreatitis?
A lot of pet food companies offer pet food targeting dogs with pancreatitis. However, some are falsely claiming their foods are great for pancreatitis. This calls for caution and deep research. We save you time with our best 5 brands that offer the best diets for pancreatic dogs:
- Instinct
- Nutro
- Annamaet
- The Honest Kitchen
- Blue Buffalo
The prices vary according to the brand and size. The average price for our best dog foods for pancreatitis is $4.93 per lb, and the price ranges from $1.79 to $12.83 per lb. Your dog’s life stage is also important when choosing the best foods for pancreatitis. Puppies need energy-dense diets for growth, while seniors need less energy.
Here’s a summary of the best dog foods for pancreatitis:
| Image | Product | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Best Overall  | Instinct Raw Boost Healthy Weight Recipe with Real Chicken
| 10 | Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Chewy |
Best Value  | Nutro Natural Choice Healthy Weight Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken & Brown Rice
| 9.9 | Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Chewy |
Best Grain-Free  | Annamaet Grain-Free Reduced Fat Dry Dog Food, Chicken & Duck
| 9.8 | Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Chewy |
Best for All Life Stages  | The Honest Kitchen Grain-Free Dehydrated Dry Food
| 9.7 | Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Chewy |
Healthy Weight  | Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Adult Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food, Chicken & Brown Rice
| 9.5 | Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on Chewy |
View Table of Contents
- Best Overall 1. Instinct Boost Raw Healthy Weight Grain-Free Chicken and Freeze-Dried Raw Pieces
- Best Value 2. Nutro Wholesome Essentials Healthy Weight Dry Food
- Best Grain-Free 3. Annamaet Grain-Free Lean Low Fat Formula Dry Food
- Best for All Life Stages 4. The Honest Kitchen Grain-Free Dehydrated Dry Food
- Best for Healthy Weight 5. Blue Buffalo Healthy Weight Formula Life Protection Dry Food
- 6. American Journey Healthy Weight Chicken and Sweet Potato Recipe
- 7. Solid Gold Fit and Fabulous Grain-Free Weight Control Dry Food
- 8. Wellness Core Grain-Free Reduced-Fat Turkey and Chicken Recipe
- 9. Canidae Pure Healthy Weight Chicken and Pea Recipe Dry Food
- 10. Merrick Grain-Free Healthy Weight Recipe Dry Food
- 11. Nulo Freestyle Grain-Free Adult Trim Dry Food
- What are the facts that you should know about dog foods for Pancreatitis?
Best Overall
1. Instinct Boost Raw Healthy Weight Grain-Free Chicken and Freeze-Dried Raw Pieces
Appeal to your dog’s instincts and make it come for more with this Instinct Raw boost from Nture’sVariety. The initial production date is May 1st, 2013. Chicken, turkey meal, and menhaden fish meal are highly-digestible. And they are in the first 5 ingredients list. High digestibility lowers the workload on your pancreatic dog for fast recovery.
- Great-tasting kibble with raw freeze-dried pieces for a delicious meael
- Contains fat-burning L-carnitine
- Perfect levels of fiber to keep your dog full for longer
It is crafted to support a healthy weight with a fat value of 12% and a calorie content of 385 Kcal/cup. The fiber level of 6% is important for smooth digestion. It also makes dogs feel full for longer, thus lowering the risk of unhealthy weight.
This recipe is the right choice for dogs with pancreatitis as it is also free from common allergens, including wheat, corn, or soy. Consuming this diet benefits your dog’s coat and skin with optimal levels of omega 6 and 3 fatty acids. In addition, it has taurine to keep the heart strong and healthy.
Be keen when serving your dog. Giving the right portions ensures the maintenance of a healthy weight, which translates to a healthy pancreas. For dogs weighing 5-15 pounds, give a daily intake of ½ to 1 cup for weight maintenance and ¼ to ¾ cups for weight loss.
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Turkey Meal, Peas, Tapioca, Menhaden Fish Meal.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 35% min, Crude Fat 12% min, Crude Fiber 6% Max.
- Calories: 385 kcal/cup
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on whether it is for weight loss or weight maintenance. The amounts also depend on your dog’s poundage.
- Key Benefit: Contains vitamins C and E to support immunity. L-carnitine breaks down excess fat into useful energy to lower the risk of obesity and pancreatitis.
- Price: $29.99 per 4-lb bag ($7.49-lb)
Best Value
2. Nutro Wholesome Essentials Healthy Weight Dry Food
Help your dog get a lean, admirable body with Nutro Wholesome Formula by Nutro. The initial production date is November 11th, 2014. It has a tailored blend of proteins, fat, and fiber to support a healthy weight and lower the risks and impact of pancreatitis. Essential antioxidants protect your dog from inflammatory effects.
- Contains essential antioxidants to support immune system health
- Made with non-GMO ingredients
- Blend of protein and fibers promote weight loss
This diet is free from GMOs, by-products, corn, wheat, and soy to suit your sensitive dog. Oxidative damage negatively affects the pancreas, and this diet has a chock-full of antioxidants to protect dogs from inflammation. Vitamin E and selenium also boost immunity.
Dried pumpkin and dried spinach are excellent sources of fiber for smooth digestion and reduced risks of tummy upsets. This diet is for large and giant dogs, and the daily feedings depend on your dog’s weight. For example, dogs weighing 50 lbs need a daily intake of 4 cups for weight maintenance and 3 ¼ cups for weight reduction. Energy requirements in dogs may differ, and you may need to adjust these amounts for ideal weight.
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Whole Grain Sorghum, Chicken Meal, Rice Bran, Split Peas.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 22% min, Crude Fat 7% min, Crude Fiber 11% Max.
- Calories: 245 kcal/cup
- Suitable for which dogs: Large and giant breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on whether it is for weight maintenance or weight loss.
- Key Benefit: High levels of glucosamine and chondroitin for strong and healthy joints. Premium proteins for amino acids to build powerful muscles.
- Price: $53.98 per 30-lb bag ($1.79-lb)
Best Grain-Free
3. Annamaet Grain-Free Lean Low Fat Formula Dry Food
This recipe from Annamaet Petfoods is the right choice for pancreatic dogs with a fat value of 7%. The first date of manufacture is July 21st, 2015, and pet parents cannot get enough of it. Chicken meal is the number 1 ingredient with a high protein concentration for thick bones and muscles.
- Recipe uses human-grade fish and meat
- Contains chelated minerals to help support immune system
- Holistic and GMO-free dog food
It contains omega-3 fatty acids and chelated minerals for the skin, coat, and immune wellness. Chelated minerals also ensure maximum absorption of crucial nutrients for overall health. Slow-cooking also ensures maximum retention of essential vitamins and minerals.
This meal is safe for your pancreatic dog as it is GMO-free and has no corn, soy, or wheat. Your dog’s weight and activity levels help determine the daily portions. Dogs weighing up to 14 lbs need ½ to 1 ¾ cups for normal activity and ⅔ to 1 ¼ cups for obesity-prone dogs.
A 7-10 day transition period reduces the risk of tummy upsets and allergic reactions. It gives your dog’s digestive system time to adapt to Annamaet. For sensitive dogs, you can extend the period up to 14 days.
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Field Peas, Lentils, Potato, Tapioca.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 30% min, Crude Fat 7% min, Crude Fiber 3.5% Max.
- Calories: 350 kcal/cup
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your dog’s age and activity level.
- Key Benefit: It has L-carnitine to promote metabolism and reduce fat accumulation. DHA promotes brain development, focus, and trainability.
- Price: $20.99 per 5-lb bag ($4.19-lb)
Best for All Life Stages
4. The Honest Kitchen Grain-Free Dehydrated Dry Food
Known for its high-value ingredients, The Honest Kitchen never lets you down. Their meals are crafted with human-grade ingredients for maximum nutritional and health benefits. The first manufacturing date is May 25th, 2006.
- Human-grade food made with high-quality ingredients for health and taste
- Suitable for puppies and adult dogs
- No preservatives, fillers, corn, wheat or soy. Non-GMO ingredients.
This recipe rehydrates up to 4 times its weight. Add warm water and give your dog a standalone meal or a food topper. Rehydration is great for your sick dog as it ensures maximum retention of essential nutrients, adds flavor, and makes digestion easier. Your pancreatic dog with no appetite will consume this diet in seconds, as the taste is top-notch.
Made in human food facilities with high-value ingredients that you can also eat. This assures you of better safety standards. It is free from preservatives, by-products, fillers, corn, wheat, or soy for less pancreas irritation.
Toy dogs with average activity levels need a daily intake of ¼ to ½ cup, while those with high activity need ½ to 1 cup. Add ⅓ to ¾ cup of water for average activity and ¾ to 1 ½ cups for high activity.
- First 5 Ingredients: Dehydrated Chicken, Dehydrated Potatoes, Organic Flaxseed, Dehydrated Sweet Potatoes, Dried Apples.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 24% min, Crude Fat 15% min, Crude Fiber 6.5% Max.
- Calories: 446 kcal/cup
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your dog’s breed, weight, and activity levels.
- Key Benefit: Dehydrated chicken is the number one ingredient for amino acids to repair tissues and build strong muscles. Taurine supports heart health.
- Price: $51.32 per 4-lb box ($12.83 – 1 lb box)
Best for Healthy Weight
5. Blue Buffalo Healthy Weight Formula Life Protection Dry Food
Awaken the wolf in your dog with Blue Buffalo Life Formula from Blue Buffalo Company Ltd. High-quality proteins from the chicken meal and chicken and L-carnitine support muscle power and reduce the amounts of fat, thus easing the workload on the pancreas. Calcium and phosphorus are also important for bone, tooth, and muscle health.
- Delicious, real chicken is always the first ingredient
- Contains less calories from fat to support healthy weight
- Proprietary LifeSource bits are packed with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals
This meal uses superfoods including blueberries and cranberries for powerful antioxidants to boost the immune system. Chelated minerals further support immunity and maximum absorption of important nutrients.
Your pancreatic dog can safely enjoy this delicacy as it has no wheat, soy, or corn. Carrots provide beta-carotene for skin and vision health, while chicory root is a source of high-quality fiber for improved digestion. Taurine is great for heart health, while yucca schidigera lowers stool smell and volume.
This diet is the right choice for weight management. Dogs weighing up to 15 lbs need a daily intake of ½ to 1 cup for weight reduction and ½ to 1 ½ for weight maintenance. A 14-day transition period ensures your dog fully adapts to Blue Buffalo.
- First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Brown Rice, Chicken Meal, Pea Fiber, Barley.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 20% min, Crude Fat 9% min, Crude Fiber 10% Max.
- Calories: 324 kcal/cup
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your dog’s poundage.
- Key Benefit: High levels of chondroitin and glucosamine for healthy joints. Omega-6 and 3 fatty acids are great for coat and skin health.
- Price: $14.99 per 5-lb bag ($2.99-lb)
6. American Journey Healthy Weight Chicken and Sweet Potato Recipe
This meal suits pancreatic dogs with the low-fat value, L-carnitine, and vitamin E to lower the load on the pancreas and protect dogs against inflammation. It is enhanced with omega 6 and 3 fatty acids for shiny skin and a lustrous coat.
Carrots and pumpkins are excellent sources of beta-carotene and fiber to boost vision and digestive wellness. Yucca schidigera and taurine are perfect for digestive and cardiac well-being.
The fewer calories per cup are great for weight management. A healthy weight lowers the risk of pancreatitis and ensures fast recovery. Natural fiber also aids in weight management, as it makes dogs full for longer. Moreover, fiber promotes regular bowel movements to lower the risk of tummy problems.
Consuming this recipe supports joint power with chondroitin and glucosamine. It is free from grains, by-products, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, preservatives, or colors. Dogs weighing 3 lbs need ½ cup for weight maintenance and ¼ cup for weight loss. Transition your dog within 7-10 days. For sensitive dogs, you can use a 10-14 transition period.
- First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Peas.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 30% min, Crude Fat 10% min, Crude Fiber 10% Max.
- Calories: 337 kcal/cup
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your dog’s body weight and whether it is for weight loss or maintenance.
- Key Benefit: Contains high amounts of proteins, calcium, and phosphorus for bone, joint, and muscle power. DHA promotes cognitive development, concentration, and trainability.
- Price: $34.98 per 11-lb bag ($2.08-lb)
7. Solid Gold Fit and Fabulous Grain-Free Weight Control Dry Food
This recipe by Solid Gold Pet LLC is made specifically for weight control. The initial date of production is July 15th, 2017. The low-fat value of 6.5% ensures less workload on the pancreas. Highly-digestible chicken and chicken meals are also great for the pancreas.
Sweet potatoes and green beans are excellent sources of dietary fiber to boost the digestive system and support a healthy weight. A lean body does not overwork the pancreas with lots of fats. Consuming this recipe boosts the immune, skin, and coat health with antioxidants, vitamin C, vitamin E, omega 6 fatty acids, and omega 3 fatty acids.
Probiotic support is great for gut flora, digestive system, and the immune system. It is free from gluten and grains for your sensitive dog. Pancreatic dogs have a poor appetite, and the natural taste delights your sick dog.
The daily intake may vary depending on your dog’s poundage. For example, dogs weighing 5-15 pounds need 1 to 1 ¼ cups. You can divide these amounts into 2 meals for easier digestion.
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Potatoes, Peas.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 26% min, Crude Fat 6.5% min, Crude Fiber 10% Max.
- Calories: 320 kcal/cup
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your dog’s body weight.
- Key Benefit: Chicken is the number one ingredient for high-quality protein for ideal body weight and lean muscle mass.
- Price: $19.99 per 4-lb bag ($4.99-lb)
8. Wellness Core Grain-Free Reduced-Fat Turkey and Chicken Recipe
Your dog’s overall wellness takes center stage, and Wellness had this in mind when crafting this recipe. The company uses carefully selected premium ingredients, It is made to help your dog maintain a healthy weight. A healthy weight is vital in preventing and managing pancreatitis. The fat value of 10% is also okay for your pancreatic dog. In addition, the moderate calorie content ensures your dog does not add more pounds.
The premium ingredients including blueberries, carrots, and parsley provide antioxidants and probiotics for improved immunity, bowel health, and prevention of oxidative damage. Your sensitive pooch will enjoy this meal safely as it has no by-products, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, preservatives, or colors.
This meal saves you from collecting huge smelly stool each day as it comes with yucca schidigera to lower the stool volume and odor. It also reduces dental and bone problems with calcium and phosphorus. Furthermore, this diet has vitamin A, vitamin E, and taurine for skin, coat, vision, and cardiac wellness.
Read the label carefully for the daily intake. You can adjust the amounts based on your dog’s activity levels, temperature, health condition, and age.
- First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal, Lentils, Chicken Meal, Peas.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 33% min, Crude Fat 10% min, Crude Fiber 12% Max.
- Calories: 366 kcal/cup
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds. Dogs with weight problems.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your dog’s body weight.
- Key Benefit: high levels of chondroitin and glucosamine for joint health. Omega-6 and 3 fatty acids promote coat and skin health.
- Price: $19.98 per 4-lb bag ($4.99-lb)
9. Canidae Pure Healthy Weight Chicken and Pea Recipe Dry Food
Help your dog shed those unhealthy pounds with Canidae Pure Formula by Canidae. A lean dog has minimal chances of getting pancreatitis and if already sick, that dog can recover fast. The initial production date is October 7th, 2015. It features real chicken as the number one ingredient for premium proteins to support muscle power. The fewer ingredients also make it easy for you to identify any allergen and avoid it in the future.
Fiber, antioxidants, and fatty acids blend well to give your dog a healthy digestive system, minimize the risk of inflammation, and support coat and skin appearance. With no fillers, artificial additives, corn, wheat, or soy, your dog can safely enjoy this meal without adding more pounds.
The benefits do not end there as this diet is packed with omega 6 and 3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin for an admirable look and healthy joints. Vitamins C and E work with antioxidants to prevent further infections. This meal also has taurine to support heart health. The daily amounts increase with an increase in weight.
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Turkey Meal, Peas.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 28% min, Crude Fat 9% min, Crude Fiber 5% Max.
- Calories: 409 kcal/cup
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your dog’s poundage.
- Key Benefit: Contains fewer ingredients to reduce the risk of sensitivities. It is also packed with probiotics for bowel and gut wellness.
- Price: $36.50 per 12-lb bag ($3.04-lb)
10. Merrick Grain-Free Healthy Weight Recipe Dry Food
With moderate fat content, this formula by Merrick Pet Care is the best for your recovering pancreatic dog. The initial production date is June 14th, 2014. It is packed with glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega fatty acids for strong joints, smooth skin, and a soft coat.
This diet promotes digestive health with high-quality fiber and ensures a healthy weight. Blueberries and apples have antioxidants to protect the pancreas against inflammation. It suits dogs with poor appetites including pancreatic dogs as it is tasty.
This premium recipe is made in the USA, and it does not use any ingredients from China. This assures you of top-notch safety standards. Go through the feeding chart in the pack and divide the number of cups by the number of times you feed your dog.
To prevent dehydration, ensure clean water is accessible. If doing mixed feeding, reduce the dry portions by ½ cup for every 6-oz of wet food. Transition your dog gradually over 5-7 days. This ensures your dog’s digestive system is well-prepared for Merrick.
- First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Beef, Chicken Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Potatoes, Turkey Meal.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 32% min, Crude Fat 10% min, Crude Fiber 5% Max.
- Calories: 354 kcal/cup
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary with age, activity levels, and size.
- Key Benefit: Real beef is the number one ingredient for ideal body weight, energy, and strong muscles. Optimal levels of chondroitin and glucosamine promote cartilage health.
- Price: $21.98 per 4-lb bag ($5.49-lb)
11. Nulo Freestyle Grain-Free Adult Trim Dry Food
This grain-free recipe from Nulo Pet Food, Inc. is packed with premium ingredients, including deboned cod, turkey meal, and salmon meal. However, it has a minimal-fat value to suit your dog with chronic pancreatitis. It has 74% animal proteins and is crafted with low-glycemic ingredients for your sick pup.
L-carnitine supports the pancreas by breaking down excess fat, while probiotic strains aid smooth digestion. This recipe also uses wholesome fruits and vegetables for vitamins and minerals that boost immunity. In addition, the optimal levels of calcium and phosphorus promote bone, tooth, and muscle health.
Unlike other Nulo recipes, this diet has less fat and more fiber to support pancreatic wellness. Other premium ingredients, including dried carrots, provide beta-carotene for vision and skin health.
Maintaining a healthy weight is key when dealing with pancreatitis. Lean dogs are less prone to pancreatitis. Weight loss also ensures your sick pup gets back to normal as soon as possible. Dogs weighing up to 15 lbs need ½ to 1 ¼ cups per day, and those that weigh 16-25 lbs require 1 ¼ cups to 1 ¾ cups.
- First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Cod, Salmon Meal, Yellow Peas, Turkey Meal, Lentils.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 30% min, Crude Fat 7% min, Crude Fiber 6% Max.
- Calories: 368 calories per cup.
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your dog’s body weight.
- Key Benefit: High-quality protein for strong and healthy muscles. Omega-6 and 3 fatty acids give your dog an admirable look.
- Price: $25.99 per 6-lb bag ($4.33-lb)
What are the facts that you should know about dog foods for Pancreatitis?
Here are the facts to know about dog foods for pancreatitis:
Pancreatic dogs need sufficient proteins: Although lots of proteins mean lots of meat and hence fat, pancreatic dogs thrive on a protein-rich diet. The meal should, however, not have a high protein value. Go for lean meat sources, including chicken, turkey, and salmon. Meat meals are also highly digestible and would not strain your dog’s system. The first ingredient should be real and recognizable meat.
High-fat diets escalate pancreatitis: The pancreas is responsible for breaking down fats. Consuming a fatty diet makes it worse, as it overburdens the pancreas. Your already sick dog could get worse. Go for low-fat foods. The fats should come from healthy sources, including chicken fat and salmon oil.
Antioxidants and vitamins are crucial for pancreatic dogs: Antioxidants are responsible for protecting dogs against inflammation. A sick pancreas is already inflamed, and antioxidants come in handy as they reduce the effects of inflammation. They also protect dogs that are recovering from further inflammation. Vitamins like vitamin C and E blend with antioxidants to prevent further infections.
Fiber, probiotics, and prebiotics help with pancreatitis: Fiber supports digestive health and makes dogs feel full for longer, thus preventing obesity. A healthy weight makes it easy for your dog to recover. It also protects healthy dogs from pancreatitis. Probiotics and prebiotics also promote bowel and gut health.
Carbs are important: Carbs are the best sources of energy. Highly digestible carbs, including sweet potatoes, are highly preferable.
What are the best dog foods for Pancreatitis according to dog sizes?
The Best Food for Small-Sized Dogs with pancreatitis
- Eagle Pack Reduced Fat Dry Food: This recipe has a small fat value, thus saving your pancreas. It also contains vitamin E to prevent inflammation.
The Best Food for Medium-Sized and Large Dogs with Pancreatitis
- Royal Canin Adult Gastrointestinal Veterinary Diet Low Fat Dry Food: The low-fat value of 5.5% and calorie content of 248 kcal/cup suit dogs with chronic pancreatitis. The highly digestible proteins and prebiotics support the pancreas and immune system.
What are the best dog foods for Pancreatitis with different ingredients?
The Best Food for pancreatitis with Pumpkin
- Weruva Chicken Dinner Caloric Harmony Grain-Free Dry Food: The 13% fat content is perfect for dogs with pancreatitis and those recovering. Deboned chicken is the number one ingredient for amino acids, which are the building blocks of strong muscles.
The Best Dog for pancreatitis with blueberries
- FirstMate Grain-Free Small Bites Limited Ingredient Formula Dry Food: Whole Blueberries are excellent sources of antioxidants to protect the pancreas against inflammation.
What are the other dog foods for different health conditions similar to Pancreatitis?
The Best Food for Diabetes
- Dr. Harvey’s Green Superfood Dehydrated Dry Food: It features low-glycemic ingredients to prevent any spike in blood sugar levels. It also contains low carbs for an optimal ketogenic diet.
The Best Food for Allergies
- Taste of the Wild Limited Ingredient Prey Angus Beef Dry Food: It has fewer ingredients for easier digestibility and ease in identifying any allergen your dog might have. It is also packed with probiotics for immune and digestive health.
What are the foods to avoid for dogs with Pancreatitis?
Diet plays a key role when managing dogs with pancreatitis. Below are the foods to avoid:
- Table scraps: Human food is hard on your dog’s digestive system. In addition, human foods have lots of unhealthy fats, and consuming them frequently leads to an inflamed pancreas. Do not be tempted to give in to your dog’s pleading eyes, as the price would be too high.
- High-fat diets: A high-fat diet makes it hard for the pancreas to work efficiently. Fat accumulation means the pancreas has to overwork, thus leading to pancreatic inflammation. Go for a low-fat diet for your dog’s overall happiness. A 7% to 10% fat value is okay. High fats also cause obesity, which escalates pancreatitis.
- Starch: Consuming lots of starchy foods leads to a spike in blood sugar levels, which can cause diabetes in the long run. Dogs with diabetes are also prone to pancreatitis. Grains like rice and oatmeal are great sources of fiber, but they are considered a starch. This can be minimized by cooking these grains for longer.
- Low-quality proteins: Some dog foods have unidentifiable meat sources among the first five ingredients. These are harmful to dogs with pancreatitis, as you may not know the exact fat value. Chicken and turkey are excellent protein sources. They are easy to digest, making it easier for the pancreas.
- Fillers/ low-quality food: Fillers such as wheat, corn, and soy are harmful as they lack the essential enzymes necessary for digestion. High-quality and easily digestible ingredients are best for pancreatic dogs.
Which is the best dog food for Pancreas problems?
Here is the best dog food for pancreas problems:
Dr. Tim’s Metabolite Weight Management Formula Dry Food
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Whole Oat Groats, Brown Rice, Powdered Cellulose, Dried Field Peas.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 30% min, Crude Fat 10% min, Crude Fiber 8% Max.
- Calories: 268.6 kcal/cup
- Suitable for which dogs: Large and giant breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary depending on whether it is for weight maintenance or weight loss.
- Key Benefit: High-quality protein for thick muscles. Vitamins C and E work together for a stronger immune system.
- Price: $15.39 per 4-lb bag ($3.85-lb)
Give your dog an ideal weight with Dr. Tim’s delicacy. This recipe is crafted specifically for a healthy weight, which translates to a healthy pancreas. Calcium and phosphorus support bone and cartilage wellness, while omega 6 and 3 fatty acids boost skin and coat well-being.
Consuming this formula promotes cognitive wellness with the high levels of DHA. L- carnitine comes in handy to break down any excess fat, thus reducing the workload on the pancreas. It also helps with stool volume and odor with yucca schidigera. High-Quality fiber (8%) is responsible for bowel and gut wellness. Moreover, it supports healthy weight as it makes dogs feel full for longer.
What is the main difference between dog foods for diabetes and pancreatitis?
Pancreatitis and diabetes are chronic health conditions that can be fatal if not detected and treated early. Each condition calls for a unique diet. Dogs with pancreatitis need a low-fat diet, while those with diabetes need a low-glycemic diet. Here are the main differences between dog foods for diabetes and pancreatitis:
- Nutritional composition: Dogs with diabetes need a low-glycemic diet to prevent a spike in blood sugar levels. On the other hand, dogs with pancreatitis need foods with less fat to avoid overworking the pancreas.
- Fat content: Dogs with diabetes do well with a fat value of approximately 30%. This value is too high for dogs with pancreatitis, as they require about 7% to 10% fat content.
- Fiber content: Dogs with diabetes do not need lots of fiber. Fiber supports weight loss, and diabetic dogs are already thin. However, pancreatic dogs need fiber to reduce their body weight and prevent the overworking of the pancreas.
