The essentials
- Digestive enzymes are essential for a dog’s health — They are proteins that help break down food molecules.
- Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency is the primary cause of enzyme deficiency — EPI develops when the pancreas does not produce enough enzymes.
- Symptoms of enzyme deficiency concern your dog’s digestion — Diarrhea in dogs is one of the most prevalent signs.
What are digestive enzymes?
A dog’s body produces a variety of natural enzymes. Digestive enzymes are some of the most important in maintaining a dog’s digestive and overall health. These enzymes are proteins that help to break down food which converts into nutrients and energy.
Enzymes naturally occuring in a dog’s body typically live in the pancreas. As food goes through the GI tract of your dog, the pancreas releases enzymes to aid in the metabolization process. Once food breaks down, the small intestine absorbs it and transfers these healthy nutrients throughout the blood and body.
The four types of digestive enzymes
There are four naturally occurring enzymes in a dog’s body. These enzymes help drive all the metabolic systems of a dog’s body, enhancing nutrient absorption.
- Protease. This enzyme breaks down proteins and is important in cell division, preventing blood clotting, as well as promoting overall immunity.
- Amylase. These break down carbohydrates. These carbohydrates become simple sugars that are easier for the body to digest.
- Lipase. These break down fats and convert them into energy. It helps maintain a dog’s triglycerides which keeps their heart healthy.
- Cellulase. This enzyme breaks down fibers. These are the fibers that come from grains and vegetables. This enzyme also controls blood sugar.
👉 It is important to note that cellulase does not naturally occur in a dog’s body as it’s found in the cell walls of all plants. However, it is an essential enzyme for dogs who eat kibble. Kibble contains fibrous elements and cellulose which needs extra help breaking down as it is almost entirely indigestible.
Why dogs need digestive enzymes
All dogs need enzymes to maintain a healthy level of nutrients in the body. Without these enzymes, the nutrients that dogs get from their food go to waste because digestive enzymes are responsible for the breakdown of fats, proteins, and carbs. Adding digestive enzymes to a healthy dog’s diet may help boost this process for optimal absorption. The addition of them to a sick pet’s meal may help improve their nutritional status amidst impaired digestion and reduced appetite.
Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) in dogs
EPI develops when a dog’s pancreas does not produce enough pancreatic enzymes. EPI causes a variety of problems for dogs, first and foremost with their digestive health. Dogs with EPI have difficulty breaking down food. They also have trouble absorbing essential nutrients, causing them malnourishment and even starvation.
EPI occurs when the acinar cells (cells that make, store, and secrete digestive enzymes) in a dog’s pancreas fail to function properly or produce enough enzymes. EPI can also be a result of other chronic pancreas problems, like pancreatitis.
Symptoms of EPI include pale, fatty, foul-smelling, or loose stool as well as constipation, chronic diarrhea, weight loss, and coprophagia (when dogs eat their own stool).
Vets can carry out several tests on a dog’s pancreas to detect EPI including:
- A serum sample. Vets will use this test to see if there is a reduced amount of TLI (trypsin-like immunoreactivity) released into the blood. A low TLI means that there aren’t enough enzymes present to digest proteins.
- Stool analysis. Your dog’s feces can be tested to determine if there’s enough enzymes present that have remained intact throughout the digestive process. If there’s a low count that can be a sign of EPI.
Your vet will likely recommend an enzyme supplement to make sure your dog has enough digestive enzymes. These supplemental enzymes are usually given to a dog in powdered form to sprinkle over the food. Enzyme supplementation can also come in pill form. You should typically give your dog these pills in advance of a meal.
Long-term health consequences may vary, but dog food with EPI is vital in their treatment. High-fat and high-fiber foods are no-nos. Fiber in particular can interfere with the normal production of enzymes in the pancreas.
If your dog does have an enzyme deficiency, they will still need an enzyme powder or pill on top of a healthy diet. Both home-cooked meals (with a vet’s guidance) and high-quality commercial dog food are suitable.
👉 Because dogs with EPI should not eat too much fatty food, your vet may suggest you give your dog a MCTs (medium chain triglycerides). Something like coconut oil will allow them to get the fatty acids that help maintain their coat and ability to absorb nutrients.
Enzyme deficiency
Digestive enzymes were first researched by Dr. Edward Howell in the early 20th century when he discovered that deficiencies occur over time due to the cooking of food. Heat can destroy essential nutrients; when humans or dogs use up their stores, they need more. Since most modern dog foods contain cooked meats and vegetables, your dog may be losing out on important enzymes that they aren’t able to replenish with diet alone.
An enzyme deficiency can affect the immune and digestive systems, creating a domino effect throughout a dog’s body. Some symptoms may include bloating, acid reflux, burping and passing gas, undigested food in their stool, and smelly breath.
Dr. Dwight AlleyneDigestive enzymes are naturally produced by organs such as the pancreas and stomach in the body so there is not much benefit adding them to food unless a dog has a medical condition such as EPI or other digestive issues. Even if a dog is eating a diet that is lacking in nutrients, this will have no effect on how well they can produce digestive enzymes.
If you want to add anything new to your dog’s diet, consult with a veterinarian first. Vets can provide recommendations and guidance on your dog’s nutrition according to their background, age, and activity level. Explore this directory to find a holistic vet in your area.
Frequently asked questions
When should you give dogs digestive enzymes?
Whether capsules, tablets, or powders, digestive enzymes should be given right before a meal.
Are digestive enzymes good for dogs?
Digestive enzymes already exist within your dog’s body. A supplement just adds more of these important proteins to their system.
What are the best homemade digestive enzymes for dogs?
Organ meats and certain dairy products can be natural sources of enzymes for dogs to eat, but be sure to monitor and limit your dog’s intake of these foods.
What’s better for dogs: probiotics or digestive enzymes?
Probiotics are healthy bacteria, while digestive enzymes are proteins. They’re completely different, but both can help the digestive system.
