Dog Pancreatitis: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
6 Nov 2026 · Dogs · 5 min read
Medical draft · pending veterinary review
What is pancreatitis?
Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, the organ that makes digestive enzymes and insulin. When it becomes inflamed, enzymes can damage the pancreas and surrounding tissue.
Common triggers
- High-fat meals or table scraps (e.g. BBQ meat, festive food)
- Obesity
- Certain breeds such as Miniature Schnauzers
- Some medications and hormonal diseases
Symptoms
- Vomiting and loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain, hunched back
- Diarrhoea
- Lethargy, fever or dehydration
Diagnosis and treatment
Vets use a physical exam, blood tests (including a pancreatic lipase test) and often ultrasound. Treatment focuses on fluids, pain relief, anti-nausea medication and early feeding of a low-fat diet.
Prevention
Avoid fatty human food, keep your dog lean, and discuss a long-term low-fat diet with your vet if your dog has had pancreatitis before.
FAQ
Can dogs recover from pancreatitis?
Many dogs with mild disease recover well with prompt treatment. Severe cases need hospitalisation and the outlook is more guarded.
References
Disclaimer: this article is for general information only and is not a substitute for a veterinary examination.