Get

In Your Inbox

Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

Is Bone or Chicken Broth Good for Dogs With Pancreatitis? Our Vet Explains

a pot of bone broth

Most of us know firsthand how terrible a GI upset can be and have experienced nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is much the same for dogs with gastrointestinal upset. When it comes to pancreatitis, think of that as GI upset on steroids. All of the same clinical signs are often present, and our pups feel just as miserable. This also means that they might be very reluctant to eat or may refuse food and liquids altogether.

But what about the old wives’ tale of using broths to help replenish liquids and electrolytes in cases of GI illness? Can bone or chicken broths be good for dogs with pancreatitis? The answer may be yes, but only if certain rules are followed. Read on to learn more about broths and whether they can help pancreatitis in dogs.

divider dog paws 3 oct 2024

What Is Pancreatitis?

Pancreatitis is a form of gastrointestinal upset caused by inflammation within the pancreas. The pancreas is an organ that is found within the abdominal cavity of many species. It lies between the stomach and small intestine and serves essential physiological functions. The pancreas helps to aid the digestion of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates by producing digestive enzymes that break down the foods dogs eat into various components.

In addition, the pancreas produces hormones that regulate blood sugar levels within the body. These functions can become impaired if pancreatitis occurs and is severe enough. Dogs with pancreatitis can develop nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and vomiting. As a result, they may also not want to eat or drink. All of these conditions can cause marked imbalances in the fluid levels within their bodies, as well as with their electrolytes.

golden-retriever-not-eating-its-food_
Image Credit: Phuttharak, Shutterstock

What Are Some Signs My Dog May Have Pancreatitis?

Possible signs that a dog may have pancreatitis include:
  • Weakness
  • Lethargy
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Loss of appetite

If you suspect your pet is suffering from pancreatitis, you should contact your vet directly for an assessment. They can provide you with more information and a care plan.

If you need to speak with a vet but can't get to one, head over to PangoVet. It's an online service where you can talk to a vet online and get the personalized advice you need for your pet — all at an affordable price!

PangoVet_Mention-in-Content Savings V1

How Does Dehydration Occur in Dogs With Pancreatitis?

Dehydration occurs when the body cannot maintain the balance of fluids. The right balance of water, along with the specific concentrations of minerals and electrolytes within this fluid, is critical—not only for cellular function but for life itself. Severe imbalances can quickly cause death.

When dogs eat and drink, their bodies retain fluids that they can use for normal cellular functions. Fluids are lost through urinating and defecating, but the intake and output will typically balance out. However, if a dog becomes ill, additional losses through diarrhea or vomiting can occur. This can be worsened if the dog is nauseous, in pain, and not eating or drinking.

Not only are fluids lost through vomiting and diarrhea, but electrolyte imbalances can also quickly occur, as these bodily fluids contain a very specific and high concentration of these substances. Once the input of fluids into the body cannot equal the output of fluids, dehydration occurs.

dog not eating its food
Image Credit: Daria Lixovetckay, Shutterstock

What Are Broths?

The terminology here gets a bit confusing. A broth or stock is the liquid strained after cooking ingredients to enhance its flavor. Broths and stocks can be vegetable, meat, or mixed in origin. A chicken broth comes from chicken, whereas a bone broth may include other bones, such as beef. Broths differ from stocks because broths are cooked with meat, while stocks are made from bones.

Therefore, the concept of “bone broth” is a bit of a misnomer in that it is actually a stock. Broths tend to be thinner than stocks since they don’t include as much collagen and other connective tissues and, therefore, are also less fatty.

Is Bone Broth Good for Dogs With Pancreatitis?

While, in theory, the idea of a chicken or bone broth might sound helpful for a dog with pancreatitis—especially when dealing with dehydration— there are a few reasons that it might actually be harmful.

Many broths and stocks are flavored with salt, which can exacerbate GI issues and dehydration. Other ingredients, such as onion and garlic, can also be found in many broths, and they can be toxic for dogs, even in small amounts.

Nutrition for dogs with pancreatitis should always be constructed under veterinary supervision. This is because some foods stand to make the condition much worse. Further, some dogs may not tolerate oral liquids and require an IV catheter for fluid and electrolyte administration. In those instances, your vet may want to rest the pancreas for some time to allow the inflammation to subside.

When broth is recommended by your vet, it may be because the additional flavors or aromas might be more enticing than plain water for a dog that feels unwell. Also, the added electrolytes might help get your pup on the road to recovery. Further, broths, by nature, should generally be easy to digest. If your vet recommends feeding a broth, follow their instructions on the amount, type, and frequency of these feedings.

Bone Broth in Metal Pan
Image Credit: Alp Aksoy, Shutterstock

divider dog paws 3 oct 2024

In Conclusion

Chicken or bone broth for dogs with pancreatitis might sound like a good idea. When they’re recommended by your vet, they may be helpful in keeping your pup’s fluid levels balanced and getting them some extra electrolytes.

However, pancreatitis in dogs is a tricky and often debilitating disease that requires veterinary supervision to manage and treat effectively. Therefore, feeding broths to dogs with pancreatitis without veterinary guidance may worsen the illness in some cases. Further, broths can contain additives that are fine for humans but toxic to dogs. Having a close relationship with your vet is vital to getting your dog on the road to recovery and back to being healthy and happy again.

Related Reads:


Featured Image Credit: ZAHRA22, Shutterstock

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

Help us improve Dogster for pet parents!

Your feedback really matters.

What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

Join the conversation

Leave a Reply

You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

Talk With A Vet Online

Peace of mind,
anywhere, anytime

Affordable vet advice

Is Pedialyte Good for Dogs with Pancreatitis? Our Vet Explains

When humans are sick, especially with gastrointestinal upset, one of the first things we often reach for is some Pedialyte to help keep...

dog drinking water from a metal bowl

Is Slippery Elm Good for Dogs With Pancreatitis? Our Vet Explains

It is always tempting to look for home remedies that might help with various medical conditions in our pets, as the natural inclination...

leaves of Slippery elm tree

Is Sweet Potato Good for Dogs With Pancreatitis? (Vet Answer)

If your dog has been diagnosed with pancreatitis, your vet probably told you about the importance of managing their diet. Some vets will...

dog playing in a sweet potato field in a sunny fall

8 Amazing Benefits of Bone Broth for Dogs & Why We Love It (Vet Approved)

We want our pups to be as healthy as possible, so we make sure they eat nutritious dog food and exercise daily. But...

bone broth bouillon in stainless steel pot

More related

bacon grease in hot pan

My Dog Ate Grease: Our Vet Explains Potential Risks, Signs & Next Steps

We’re all guilty of indulging in a greasy meal now and then, but we’re unlikely to lose control of ourselves and devour the...

Can Dogs Eat Bones

Can Dogs Eat Bones? Vet-Approved Health & Safety Guide

Dogs and bones seem to go together like peanut butter and jelly, but is it actually safe or healthy to offer a bone...

bichon frise dog smelling his owners face

Can Pancreatitis Cause Bad Breath in Dogs? Health & Care Facts (Vet Answer)

Bad breath in dogs is something that pet owners fight constantly. We all know that tartar accumulation and poor oral hygiene are common...

Can Dogs Eat Fried Chicken

Can Dogs Eat Fried Chicken? Vet-Verified Risks, Alternatives & FAQ

The hot pop of frying chicken sends dogs flying from the sofa just as easily as a tantalizing takeout box from your favorite...

Keep reading

Can Dogs Eat Agave? Vet-Reviewed Facts & FAQ

Agave nectar (or agave syrup) is a sweeter-than-sugar sweetener derived from the agave plant. Since honey is sometimes recommended for dogs, you might wonder if you can offer Fido a teaspoon or tablespoon of your agave syrup. While agave syrup...

Can Dogs Eat Agave

Scrumbles Dog Food Review 2025: An Expert’s Breakdown

* Save 15% With Subscribe & Save Searching for the perfect dog food can be a challenge. Sometimes you think you’ve got it, and a suddenly fussy dog turns his nose up at dinner, and you’re back to square one....

DOG_SAPR_Scrumbles Dog Food

Do Puppies Need Puppy Food? Vet-Verified Facts & FAQ

When you stop to really think about it, it may seem like a no-brainer that puppies would need different food from our adult dogs. After all, we feed infants baby food. However, it really isn’t that clear to a lot...

dry dog food in a bowl on wooden table

7 Best Dog Food Can Lids in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks 

If your dog eats a wet food diet and you don’t use the whole can at once, the last thing you want is the leftovers stinking up your fridge! Instead of using cling film or aluminum foil every time, there...

ORE Pet Can Cover

9 Best Dog Foods for Nursing Dogs in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

Feeding a nursing dog the best food possible is crucial for her health and the long-term well-being of her puppies. Mother dogs require special food designed to meet their nutritional needs while they are nursing. The ideal food is high...

Litter of Small Breed Newborn Puppies Nursing on Their Mom

How Often Should Puppies Eat? Vet-Approved Guide & Scheduling

Raising puppies is not for the faint of heart. It’s a tough gig, not unlike raising a newborn baby, but it is extremely gratifying, rewarding, and a whole lot of fun. One of the most important parts of successfully caring...

puppies eating from bowls together

10 Best Beef Dog Foods in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

There are different aspects to consider when looking at food for your dog. There is your dog’s specific daily nutrition needs to consider, which are all determined by its breed, age, and any ailments it may be suffering from. When...

English cocker spaniel dog eating food drinking water from bowl on the floot in the kitchen home

10 Best Dog Foods for Pomskies in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

The Pomsky is a mix of a Husky and a Pomeranian. They essentially look like miniature Huskies, and they put the “A” in adorable! These beautiful dogs have become a bit of a social media sensation due to their unique...

young pomsky outdoor