What not to feed dogs with pancreatitis?

Pancreatitis in dogs is a tricky, painful condition—one that hits their digestive system hard. The pancreas, which helps break down food, gets inflamed, and what you put in their bowl can either soothe it or set off a flare-up. Let’s talk about the foods that belong nowhere near their dish, no matter how much they beg.​

High-fat meats top the list. Bacon, sausage, even that leftover steak fat on your plate—these are disaster. The pancreas struggles to process heavy fats, and a single bite can trigger vomiting, diarrhea, or worse. It’s not just obvious fats; deli meats like salami or pepperoni, with their hidden grease, are just as bad. When in doubt, ask: would this make my cholesterol spike? If yes, skip it for your pup.​

Dairy is another culprit. That slice of cheese you sneak them? Or a lick of ice cream? Most dogs don’t digest lactose well, but for pancreatitis sufferers, the fat in dairy (even low-fat versions) is the real problem. It’s not worth the risk—those puppy eyes aren’t worth a trip to the emergency vet, where fluids and pain meds might be needed to calm their system.​

Fried foods are a hard no. French fries, onion rings, or even that leftover fried chicken skin—crunchy, salty, and loaded with oil. These sit in their stomach like a rock, forcing the pancreas to work overtime. Many fast-food scraps end up in dog bowls, but for a pup with pancreatitis, this is like throwing gasoline on a fire. Keep the drive-thru leftovers in the trash.​

Processed treats and chews might surprise you. Those “bacon-flavored” biscuits or rawhide rolls? Check the label—many are packed with added fats, preservatives, or by-products that irritate the pancreas. Even some “gourmet” treats, with ingredients like butter or lard, are trouble. Stick to vet-recommended low-fat options; your dog won’t know the difference, but their body will.​

Table scraps, in general, are risky. That spoonful of gravy, a bite of casserole, or the last bite of your burger—they’re all loaded with hidden fats, spices, or onions (which are toxic to dogs, by the way). It’s easy to cave when they hover under the table, but consistency here keeps them out of pain. Many vets say that 90% of pancreatitis flare-ups in dogs are linked to dietary slip-ups—scary enough to put the leftovers away.​

Alcohol and caffeine are non-negotiable. A sip of beer or a lick of coffee might seem harmless, but they tax the pancreas even more, on top of being toxic. Keep drinks out of paw’s reach, especially during gatherings where cups get left unattended. It’s not worth the emergency call.​

Here’s the thing: every dog is different. What triggers one might not faze another, but why take the chance? Work with your vet to build a meal plan—usually low-fat, easily digestible proteins like chicken or fish, with plain carbs like rice. They might recommend prescription diets, which are formulated to take the guesswork out.​

Local pet stores carry great low-fat options, and many brands now label “pancreatitis-friendly” clearly (check those ingredient lists—fat should be under 10% dry matter). It’s a small adjustment for you, but a huge relief for them.​

Your dog doesn’t understand why their favorite snacks are off-limits. But when they’re not doubled over in pain, when they eat without discomfort—you’ll know it’s worth it. Keep that list of no-nos handy, and trust your vet’s guidance. Their health (and those tail wags) depend on it.