Pancreatitis in Dogs: What Every Owner Needs to Know
The pancreas sits tucked behind the stomach, quietly producing digestive enzymes and insulin. When it becomes inflamed, those enzymes activate early and begin digesting surrounding tissue — causing intense pain and, in severe cases, systemic organ failure. Pancreatitis can look deceptively like an ordinary upset stomach at first.
Classic Symptoms
- Repeated vomiting — even when the stomach is empty
- The prayer position — front end down, hind end up, relieving abdominal pressure
- Abdominal pain — dog won't let you touch the belly, hunches when walking
- Diarrhoea — often greasy or orange-tinged
- Lethargy and fever
- Complete loss of appetite
Common Triggers
- High-fat meal — the single most common trigger (BBQ scraps, bacon, cheese)
- Obesity
- Certain medications (corticosteroids, some antibiotics)
- Breed predisposition: Miniature Schnauzers, Cocker Spaniels, Yorkshire Terriers
- Underlying conditions: hypothyroidism, diabetes, Cushing's disease
Diagnosis
The vet will palpate the abdomen, run blood work including the cPLI (canine pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity) test — the most specific marker for pancreatitis — and likely do an ultrasound to assess pancreatic swelling.
Treatment
- IV fluids — the cornerstone of treatment to prevent dehydration and support circulation
- Pain management — pancreatitis is very painful; opioids are often used in hospital
- Anti-nausea medication
- Controlled reintroduction of food — modern guidelines favour introducing low-fat food as soon as the dog shows interest, rather than prolonged fasting
- Hospitalisation for moderate to severe cases
Long-Term Diet
After an episode, many dogs need a permanent low-fat diet (under 10 % fat on dry matter basis). Small, frequent meals of 3–4 times a day reduce the burden on the pancreas. High-fat treats, table scraps, and fatty bones are off the menu — permanently for recurrent cases.
Track every flare in Purzi — date, what your dog ate in the 24 hours before, duration of symptoms. Your vet will use this pattern to predict triggers and adjust management.