10 Best Dog Food for Pancreatitis 2024: Low-Fat Meals

Pancreatitis is a common issue in dogs who are getting too much fat in their diets. A low-fat diet can help many dogs with pancreatitis to live healthier and happier lives. But finding the right low-fat dog food for your furry friend can be difficult.

I have researched many dog food options to find nutritious low-fat choices for your pet. I made a careful study and in-depth analysis of ingredient quality, fat content, and customer feedback. Using that data, I’ve compiled a list of the 10 best dog foods for pancreatitis. 

Ollie gets my top spot for its fresh, low-fat chicken meal. But all the services on this list offer lower-fat meals that will help your dog avoid future pancreatitis attacks. Read on and find out how your pet can eat healthier meals and you can save trips to the store.

The Best Dog Food for Pancreatitis Reviewed

1. Ollie – Best Dog Food for Pancreatitis 2024

Ollie recipes contain nutrient-rich superfoods like carrots, blueberries, and cod liver oil. These ingredients are excellent for overall dog health but are particularly beneficial for dogs with pancreatitis. Cod liver oil provides Omega-3 fatty acids that reduce the inflammation that often comes with pancreatitis, while blueberries offer immunity-boosting antioxidants.

What’s on Offer?

All meals use human-grade ingredients that are cooked sous vide at low temperatures. The cooking process takes place in a USDA Process Verified facility. For dogs with pancreatitis, it's crucial to have food that maintains the integrity of its nutrients.

For pups that prefer kibble, Ollie offers baked dog food made with real meat and vegetables. Ollie’s baked food is cooked in small batches at lower temperatures, ensuring easier digestion for pancreatitis-prone dogs.

Ollie's Chicken with Carrots contains just 14% fat, making it an excellent choice for pancreatitis. While Ollie’s other meals may be a bit high in fat for dogs with serious pancreatic issues, they are still far healthier than commercial meals and table scraps. Talk with your vet before deciding on any dietary change if your dog has had an episode of pancreatitis. 

You can also add supplements like Immunity Chews and Probiotic Chews to your order. Immunity Chews can help reduce inflammation and boost your dog’s immune system, while Probiotic Chews can provide your pup with better gut health and overall well-being. 

What Makes It Special?

When you sign up for Ollie, you'll fill out a questionnaire about your dog's specific needs. Based on your dog's age, weight, and health concerns like pancreatitis, Ollie recommends the most suitable meals. 

Tailored nutrition and a high-quality diet are key for managing pancreatitis effectively. Our detailed Ollie review will provide you with more information about the different Ollie options.

Is It Good Value?

Your subscription begins with a 2-week starter box, which includes everything you need. This starter box is a great way to introduce your dog to Ollie's meals, and find out if they are suitable to their dietary requirements. 

Prices start at $4-$8 per day. There are various meal plans like Full Fresh, Half Fresh, and Mixed Bowl. These options are designed to suit different budgets and feeding preferences, which is beneficial if you’re managing a long-term condition like pancreatitis.

2. We Feed Raw – Best Raw Dog Food for Pancreatitis

We Feed Raw provides human-grade ingredients in a diet that closely matches the natural diet of wild canines. Your dog gets a blend of 80% muscle meat, 10% organ meat, and 10% edible bone. There are no fillers, preservatives, or artificial ingredients. 

What’s on Offer? 

To make sure that your pup receives all necessary nutrients, each meal contains a balanced blend of vitamins and minerals that are necessary for overall canine well-being. All We Feed Raw meals adhere to the American Association of Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) guidelines, a standard that qualifies the meals as nutritionally balanced for pets.

With just 10.7% fat by volume, the Vension Patty Recipe is the leanest item on the menu. You can give your dog the protein and nutrients it needs without fat that might cause a pancreatitis flareup. We Feed Raw sources its venison from New Zealand farms that also cater to restaurants and commercial food operations. 

A raw diet is a great choice for dogs with pancreatitis. Raw animal proteins are generally easier for dogs to digest. For a dog with pancreatitis, this feature is especially important as it minimizes strain on the pancreas. 

What Makes It Special?

We Feed Raw is suitable for dogs of all ages. Whether you have a young pup or an elderly senior dog, We Feed Raw meals are formulated to meet the nutritional needs of dogs at every life stage.

You can refrigerate open We Feed Raw meals for up to 4 days or keep them refrigerated in their original packaging for up to 6 months. 

Is It Good Value?

Our expert reviewer found that a raw diet was beneficial to their young German Shepherd who was experiencing hip and joint issues. 

We Feed Raw prices start at $6.59/lb. You can order 30, 60, 90, or 120 pounds of patties at a time. Make sure you have lots of storage space in your freezer. 

3. Spot & Tango – Best Fresh and Dry Dog Food for Pancreatitis

Spot & Tango uses USDA-approved human-grade meats that are free from hormones and antibiotics. All its produce is certified non-GMO and sourced from the US. Quality ingredients make a world of difference, especially when dealing with pancreatitis in dogs. If your dog likes kibble, Spot & Tango’s UnKibble is a much healthier alternative.

What’s on Offer?

Your dog can enjoy a variety of low-fat UnKibble meals. There are 4 different recipes to choose from: Cod + Salmon, Beef + Barley, Chicken + Brown Rice, and Turkey + Sweet Potato. Each recipe contains just 16% fat, making UnKibble suitable for dogs who need a lower-fat diet. And UnKibble can be stored in your pantry and remains fresh for up to 12 months after opening.

In addition to UnKibble, Spot & Tango offers 3 fresh food recipes: Turkey + Red Quinoa, Lamb + Brown Rice, and Beef + Millet. Like the UnKibble, these fresh options are crafted to be gentle on your pup’s pancreas. 

Learn more about the Spot & Tango menu in our detailed review.

What Makes It Special?

Using its patented FreshDry™ process, Spot & Tango gently dehydrates the ingredients. Most commercial kibble is made at high temperatures that destroy nutrients. 

Spot & Tango’s UnKibble naturally concentrates the protein, which is important for dogs with pancreatitis that need high-quality protein in their diet. There are no preservatives, fillers, or rendered meats in Spot & Tango’s UnKibble. This means your dog is not exposed to common allergens that can trigger allergies or inflammation. 

And because UnKibble is nutrient-dense, your dog will feel full sooner. This can help obese dogs shed those unwanted pounds and improve their pancreatic health. 

Is It Good Value

Spot & Tango offers a 100% customer satisfaction Happy Pup guarantee. If you ever have a problem with a Spot & Tango item, contact customer service for a refund. 

Prices start at $7 per week. Your Spot & Tango subscription starts with a 2-week trial. Afterwards you can choose to receive boxes every 1 to 8 weeks, depending on the size of your dog and their appetite. 

4. The Honest Kitchen – Best Dry, Wet, and Dehydrated Food for Pancreatitis

The Honest Kitchen focuses on whole-food, human-grade ingredients without additives or preservatives. You’ll find premium items like free-range chicken, wild-caught fish, and organic fruits and vegetables in THK meals. These high-quality ingredients are especially beneficial for dogs with pancreatitis who need clean and easily digestible food.

What’s on Offer?

You’ll find a diverse menu that caters to all taste preferences at The Honest Kitchen. Whether your pet loves Grain-Free Chicken Clusters or prefers Blueberry & Vanilla Goat’s Milk N’ Cookies, there's something for every dog. 

The Honest Kitchen’s wet food comes in the form of slow-cooked stews and Butcher Block Pâtés. The pâtés feature cage-free turkey and duck as the main proteins, plus root veggies. You can serve it up as a meal or mix it with your pet’s usual diet as a nutrition-packed topper. 

Dehydrated meals from The Honest Kitchen are not only healthy, they’re also convenient to prepare. All you do is add water, and you get a delicious and nutritious meal for your pup. Dehydration retains all the essential nutrients but results in a product that is easier to store than frozen fresh food. 

There are grain-free and whole-grain dry foods available. Your pup will appreciate meals that are tailored to their size and unique nutritional needs. A diet from The Honest Kitchen will help keep your furry companion active and healthy.

What Makes It Special?

Menu filters let you sort through meals for the options you need. You can look for low-fat options that are suitable for dogs with pancreatitis, and choose from different protein types like Fish, Chicken, Beef, Turkey, or Duck.

The Honest Kitchen also delivers to Alaska and Hawaii. If you’re living outside the continental US, your dog can still enjoy healthy pancreatitis-friendly meals. 

Is It Good Value?

Our expert reviewer gives you a complete rundown of the available meals.

There are no minimum order requirements and you can schedule recurring shipments for every 2-12 weeks. Pricing starts at $5.99 for dry food. Shipping is free on orders over $49, and $9.00 otherwise. 

5. Open Farm – Best Sustainable Dog Food for Pancreatitis

Open Farm offers premium ingredients sourced directly from small family farms. Each product comes with a lot code that lets you trace ingredients back to their source. Family farms often employ more ethical and sustainable practices than large-scale operations. This translates to better nutrition, which is important when you are feeding dogs with pancreatitis.

What’s on Offer?

You’ll find a diverse range of food types at Open Farm, including wet, dry, freeze-dried raw, gently cooked, or raw mix foods. Variety not only keeps your dog’s mealtime interesting, it also allows you to find the foods best suited to your dog’s needs. 

The Grain-Free Grass-Fed Beef recipe pictured above has just 14% fat. Unfortunately, Open Farm does not have a filter for low-fat meals. You will have to check each item before ordering to see if it is suited to your dog’s diet. 

Open Farm also offers snacks, supplements, and bone broths. You'll find dehydrated treats, probiotics, and various bone broth varieties. These can complement your dog’s core diet and provide a well-rounded nutritional profile.

What Makes It Special?

All Open Farm ingredients are ethically sourced. The brand prioritizes ethically raised meats, wild-caught fish, and organic fruits and vegetables. Our expert reviewer noted that all Open Farm meals are gluten free.

The packaging is as sustainable as the ingredients. All Open Farm meals are packed in recyclable materials. You can also send your food bags back to Open Farm and they will make sure they are properly recycled. 

Is It Good Value?

Open Farm is among the more expensive services on my list. But if ethical sourcing and organic produce is important to you, it may be a great investment in both the environment and your dog’s health. 

You can opt for a 1-time purchase or set up a 1 to 16 week autoship schedule. There’s no minimum order requirement, so you can purchase the best quantity for your dog's needs. Pricing starts at $7/lb without auto-shipment. 

6. JustFoodForDogs – Prescription Dog Food for Pancreatitis

JustFoodForDogs offers prescription diets for a range of medical conditions. While many cases of canine pancreatitis can be treated with a lower fat diet, dogs with more severe pancreatic issues may require a specialized diet. Your veterinarian can prescribe a JFFD diet that is suited to your dog’s medical needs.

What’s on Offer?

You can also create a meal plan designed by a JustFoodForDogs veterinarian for $250. This can be an excellent option if your dog has multiple health issues in addition to pancreatitis. It ensures your pet is getting a diet that's been precisely formulated to meet all their health needs. 

JFFD offers Fresh Frozen, Pantry Fresh, or DIY Homemade food options. All ingredients are human-grade and USDA-certified, and all produce is locally sourced from California farms. Dogs with health conditions like pancreatitis need top-quality food, and JustFoodForDogs meets those expectations. 

For dogs with pancreatitis who don’t require a prescription diet, there are also a number of lower-fat meal options. All JustFoodForDogs meals are formulated by veterinarians and nutrition consultants to include all necessary vitamins and minerals. Our expert reviewer was very impressed with JustFoodForDogs’ ingredient quality and meal selection.

What Makes It Special?

You can also sign up for a consultation with a JFFD menu specialist before you order. The specialist will provide you with suggestions as to which meals are best suited for your dog’s needs. 

And if you’re curious about how JustFoodForDogs preps its food, it has open kitchens in several locations. You can pay them a visit and see for yourself how it is made.

Is It Good Value?

Pricing starts at $6.45. There is no minimum order and no subscription plan, so you can place your orders as necessary. 

The $19.95 shipping fee is waived if you order $99 of frozen or non-frozen food. JustFoodForDogs also offers a money-back guarantee. 

7. Raised Right – Limited Ingredient Dog Food for Pancreatitis

Raised Right delivers gently-cooked human-grade food. Digestive issues and food sensitivities can exacerbate canine pancreatitis. When you feed your dog Raised Right, you’re providing high-quality meals frozen to retain freshness and nutrients. Each meal contains only a few carefully chosen ingredients that are packed with nutrition and easy to digest. 

What’s on Offer?

The Pork & Pumpkin Paté contains just 14% fat, making it the best Raised Right choice for dogs with pancreatitis. It’s made with lean but nutrient-packed pork heart and pork liver, blended with pumpkin and organic dried kelp for fiber and cod liver oil for essential fatty acids. Egg shell powder provides additional calcium to keep your dog’s bones healthy. 

Raised Right also offers 2 single-ingredient treats, Shake a Flakes and Meat Bites. Weaning your dog off table scraps can be challenging, but these treats are a healthy low-fat alternative that will make the transition much easier.

You can find out where Raised Right sources all its ingredients on its website. An interactive map gives you information about every supplier.

What Makes It Special?

All Raised Right meals are prepared in collaboration with Dr. Karen Becker, a well-known veterinarian. She works to ensure that all meals are nutritionally balanced for your dog’s needs. 

Every batch of Raised Right food is tested for pathogens before shipping, so you don’t need to worry about your dog being exposed to harmful bacteria. 

Is It Good Value?

Meal portions are customized based on your dog’s weight goals. Obesity is a common contributing factor for dogs with pancreatitis. Getting your dog’s weight down is an important part of any pancreatitis management plan. Raised Right’s personalized portions make it easier to control your dog’s diet effectively. 

Pricing starts at $9.99/bag. You can get a discount, and free shipping, when you sign up for a subscription. You can buy a sample pack or a minimum order of 16 bags.

8. Jinx – Best Kibble for Pancreatitis

Jinx provides 6 distinct low-fat dry food options that are great for dogs with pancreatitis. These options offer your kibble-loving pup a variety of flavors while adhering to low-fat requirements essential for managing pancreatitis. From chicken and brown rice to salmon and sweet potato, you have a selection that keeps mealtime exciting.

What’s on Offer?

Meals and treats are free from artificial preservatives, fillers, and by-products. Unlike commercial kibbles, Jinx uses high-quality ingredients like human-grade proteins. 

Every Jinx recipe also incorporates superfoods like kale and blueberries as well as probiotics that can aid in digestion and boost your dog’s immune system. 

Jinx also offers bundles which include kibble, wet food, and treats. Instead of feeding your dog fatty table scraps, you can reward good behavior with healthy low-fat treats made with natural ingredients and designed for canine digestive systems. 

What Makes It Special? 

You can customize your dog's meal plan based on age, weight, and activity level. This ensures that your dog gets the nutrition it needs without excess fat that could worsen pancreatitis. You fill out a quick profile, and Jinx takes care of the rest. 

Jinx dry food has just 14% fat, but contains fewer carbs and more protein than most commercial dry formulations. Our expert reviewer noted that Jinx products contain no corn, soy, gluten, or artificial ingredients.

Is It Good Value?

Subscription options with Jinx range from delivery every 3 to 8 weeks. You can always be sure of having high-quality kibble on hand for your fussy pooch. Jinx offers a straightforward return policy. If you're not satisfied with the food, you can contact the customer support team for a refund on any order. 

Pricing for Jinx starts at $30/bag. While you can place 1-time orders, you will save money with an ongoing subscription. There’s no minimum order, but you’ll pay a $5 shipping charge on all orders under $35. 

9. Chewy – Biggest Selection of Low-Fat Meals for Pancreatitis

Chewy is a 1-stop shop that offers a wide variety of pet products, not just dog food. The site caters to pets ranging from fish to horses. If you're looking for dog food for pancreatitis, you will have plenty of choices at Chewy.

What’s on Offer?

You'll discover a lineup of premium brands for pancreatitis-friendly dog food. Among them are well-known lines like Royal Canin, Blue Buffalo, and Orijen. You’ll also find a selection of human-grade, non-GMO, and all-natural options.

All those choices can be complicated, but Chewy’s menu filters make things simple. It’s easy to search for Low Fat items, and you can select between 75 different meal options. 

In addition to dog food, Chewy offers treats suitable for dogs with pancreatitis. You can reward your good dog with healthy snacks that are delicious for doggies but low in fat. 

Customer support at Chewy is top-notch. Should you have any questions or need recommendations for pancreatitis-friendly dog food, Chewy’s customer service is always available to assist you.

What Makes It Special?

You can also fill veterinary prescriptions through the Chewy Pharmacy. If your dog is on medication, you can have your medicine delivered and save yourself a trip to the pharmacy. 

Chewy delivers to locations within the mainland US via FedEx. Your dog food should arrive within 1 to 3 days, depending on your location. 

Is It Good Value?

Because Chewy purchases in bulk, it can offer very reasonable prices. Premium dog food is more expensive than the commercial meals you get at the grocery store. But you’ll get the best prices available at Chewy. Our expert reviewer found that Chewy is a great place for bargains.

Shipping is free on all orders over $49. Otherwise a flat $4.95 fee applies. Auto ship orders are available if you find a food you like and want recurring orders. 

10. Wild Earth – Best Vegan Dog Food for Pancreatitis

Wild Earth’s entire menu is 100% plant-based. It’s a great choice for dogs with pancreatitis who need an easy-to-digest diet. Plants are lower in fat and easier on a sensitive stomach than most meat-based options.

What’s on Offer?

Dried yeast serves as the main protein source in Wild Earth's recipes. Yeast protein is not only easy to digest but also environmentally friendly. It's a win-win for you, your pup, and the environment. 

Other plant protein sources include chickpeas and sweet potatoes. Meals also include Yoji mushrooms and other sources of important enzymes and nutrients.

You can also buy vegan treats and supplements at Wild Earth. Immunity & Digestion Daily Supplements are a good choice for dogs with sensitive tummies or allergies. And vegan treats like Banana & Cinnamon Superfood Treats are a great and healthy reward for good behavior.

What Makes It Special?

Wild Earth meals are low in fat and highly digestible. This addresses the key needs of dogs suffering from pancreatitis. 

And because Wild Earth recipes contain no meat or dairy products, there is less concern about allergies or food sensitivities. If your pup has pancreatitis and allergies, this could be a game-changer.

Is It Good Value?

Grain is a component of all Wild Earth meals. If your dog has grain sensitivities in addition to pancreatitis, you might want to explore other options. Check with your veterinarian to see if Wild Earth is right for your dog with special needs.

Prices start at $5/lb, with free shipping and subscriber discounts. If you’re looking for a plant-based dog food, Wild Earth is among the best on the market.

Quick Comparison Table

Tips for Choosing the Best Dog Food for Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis can be tough for both you and your furry friend. But with the right treatment and feeding regimen, many dogs bounce back to lead vibrant lives. Here are some tips to guide you in selecting the best dog food for pancreatitis:

• Consider the food prep process: The way your dog’s food is prepared matters. When opting for a lower-fat diet, ensure the cooking process retains vital nutrients. Ollie cooks its meals sous vide to kill pathogens while locking in flavor and important vitamins.

• Think about your dog’s needs: Factors like age, weight, and specific health conditions matter when you’re thinking about your dog’s dietary requirements. The Honest Kitchen offers meals for puppies, adult dogs, and senior pooches. 

• Consider your price point: High-quality dog food tends to cost more, especially if you’re feeding a large breed. But healthy food can also reduce future vet expenses. Each provider on this list offers good value for your money, and you can always take advantage of these special discounts.

• Consult your veterinarian: Trusting professionals is a good start. Your vet knows your dog and will offer feeding pointers tailored to their needs. And if your dog needs a special diet, your vet can send a prescription to JustFoodForDogs.

• Feed smaller meals more often. Smaller meals give your dog more opportunity to digest their food and put less strain on their pancreas. A lick mat from Chewy will give your dog stimulation and enjoyment and slow down their eating so they will be less likely to wind up with pancreatitis or stomach upset.

What Is Pancreatitis in Dogs?

Pancreatitis in dogs is an inflammation of the pancreas, the organ that produces several important digestive enzymes and vital hormones, including insulin. Pancreatitis can range from mild to severe and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. 

There are several recognized risk factors for pancreatitis. High-fat meals or sudden access to large amounts of fatty foods are a common cause of acute pancreatitis. Many veterinary clinics report a spike in pancreatitis cases after the holidays after dogs eat too many fatty table scraps. 

Obese dogs are at greater risk for pancreatitis, as are dogs with diabetes or hypothyroidism. Pancreatitis can also be caused by medications or toxins, or if your dog has sustained trauma to their abdomen. Certain breeds are especially prone to pancreatitis, notably Cocker Spaniels, Miniature Schnauzers, and some terriers.

Common symptoms of pancreatitis in dogs include:

• Vomiting.

• Diarrhea.

• Abdominal pain (dogs might be hunched over or reluctant to move).

• Anorexia (lack of appetite).

• Fever.

• Lethargy.

• Dehydration

A veterinarian will base the diagnosis on a combination of clinical signs, blood tests (elevated pancreatic enzymes such as amylase or lipase can be indicative, though they're not always conclusive), ultrasound imaging, and sometimes other diagnostic tools.

Pancreatitis may be acute or chronic. Acute pancreatitis is a sudden onset of pancreatic inflammation. With proper treatment, dogs with acute pancreatitis can recover fully. But if a dog has had an attack of acute pancreatitis you should keep an eye on their fat intake to avoid another episode. 

Chronic pancreatitis is repeated or ongoing inflammation of the pancreas. Dogs with chronic pancreatitis may require a vet-prescribed diet to keep the condition from flaring up, as well as other medical interventions. Your veterinarian will be able to tell you more about how to deal with your pet’s chronic pancreatitis, including feeding recommendations. 

FAQ

What dog food is best for a dog with pancreatitis?

Dogs with pancreatitis need meals that are high in protein and low in fat. Too much fatty food is a frequent cause of acute pancreatitis, so you should make sure that your dog is on a diet of high-quality, lower-fat food from a dog food provider like Ollie.

Is a raw diet good for dogs with pancreatitis?

While a raw diet can be beneficial to dogs, you need to check the fat content. Too much fat can trigger a pancreatitis episode or cause chronic pancreatitis to become worse. We Feed Raw has a raw venison pack that is packed with protein and contains just 10.7% fat.

Can obesity cause pancreatitis in dogs?

Pancreatitis occurs more frequently in overweight and obese dogs, so you should try to get your dog’s weight down to a healthy level. A dog food delivery service like Spot & Tango can help you manage your dog’s weight by providing nutrient-dense food that will leave your pup feeling full faster.

Best Dog Food for Pancreatitis in 2024 — Final Score