Description: Pancreatic Insufficiency is characterized by the dog’s inability to efficiently digest food as a result of low levels of digestive enzymes produced by the pancreas. Undigested food often just passes through the gastrointestinal tract causing the animal to starve to death because the body lacks sufficient nutrients to supply its daily basic needs. Pancreatic Insufficiency may be inherited and is more prevalent among larger breeds of dogs. Clinical symptoms include rapid weight loss, diarrhea, and constant food cravings. Cases require regular treatment to correct the condition which may prove to be expensive. Treatment will include the administration of exogenous enzymes to replace the lost enzymes from the pancreas.

Breeds Commonly Affected: German Shepherd