How do you know if your dog has got pancreatitis?

Pancreatitis in dogs can sneak up quietly, but knowing the signs could save your pup’s life. This condition, where the pancreas becomes inflamed, often hits suddenly—even in dogs that seem perfectly healthy. One of the first clues might be a loss of appetite; if your usually food-obsessed lab turns up their nose at their favorite kibble or a scrap of leftover chicken, it’s worth paying attention. They might also start acting lethargic, skipping their morning walk or curling up in their bed instead of greeting you at the door—changes that feel out of character for your energetic companion.

Abdominal pain is another red flag, though dogs don’t show it the way humans do. You might notice them hunching their back like they’re trying to relieve pressure, or yelping if you accidentally bump their belly during play. Some dogs will paw at their stomachs or lie in unusual positions, like stretching out flat on the floor, as if trying to ease the discomfort. Vomiting is common too, sometimes even after they’ve already emptied their stomach—dry heaves that leave them looking weak and miserable. These symptoms can worsen quickly, so don’t brush them off as a passing stomach bug.

Certain breeds and lifestyles raise the risk, which is something to keep in mind if you have a smaller dog like a Yorkshire terrier or a larger one like a German shepherd—both are more prone to the condition. Diet plays a big role too; feeding table scraps high in fat, like leftover bacon or greasy pizza crusts, can trigger an episode. In many places, local animal welfare guidelines stress the importance of balanced nutrition, and for good reason—rich, fatty foods aren’t just bad for their waistlines, they can spark serious health issues. Even a single indulgent meal during holiday gatherings, when plates are left unattended, might be enough to set it off.

Dehydration often follows, especially if vomiting or diarrhea is involved. You might notice their gums feel sticky or dry when you gently lift their lip, or their eyes look sunken. They may drink more water than usual but still seem parched, a sign their body is struggling to keep up. In severe cases, dogs might develop a fever or act disoriented, behaviors that demand immediate attention. Remember, pancreatitis isn’t something to self-diagnose—vets can run blood tests or ultrasounds to confirm, and early treatment is key to preventing complications.

It’s important to act fast because pancreatitis can turn serious in hours. Waiting to see if symptoms improve might put your dog at risk, and in some regions, delaying necessary veterinary care could even raise concerns under animal welfare laws. If you spot a combination of these signs—loss of appetite, abdominal discomfort, vomiting, lethargy—call your vet right away. They might recommend bringing your dog in for treatment, which could include IV fluids, pain medication, or a temporary change to a low-fat diet.

Knowing the signs of pancreatitis helps you be a more attentive pet owner, catching problems before they escalate. By staying aware of changes in your dog’s behavior and sticking to a healthy diet—avoiding those tempting table scraps—you can lower their risk. And when in doubt, err on the side of caution: a quick call to your vet could make all the difference in helping your furry friend recover quickly and fully. Always keep your vet’s after-hours number handy, as pancreatitis doesn’t wait for regular office hours.