Digestive Enzymes for Dogs: When to Provide Them

Digestive enzymes help your dog break down proteins, fats, and carbohydrates into healthy nutrients to support their well-being. Most healthy dogs naturally produce the digestive enzymes they need to stay healthy, but some health conditions can interfere with digestion. 

For pet parents, the first signs of a potential enzyme deficiency show up as digestive problems. Your dog might have loose stools, unusual weight loss, or excess gas.

If you’re wondering if your dog could benefit from additional digestive enzymes for gut health, that’s what we’ll cover in this article. First, it’s worth noting that while veterinarians may recommend digestive enzyme supplements for dogs with specific digestive disorders, they’re not necessary for every dog. Understand how these enzymes work and when veterinarians recommend them so that you can make informed decisions about your dog’s digestive health. 

What are digestive enzymes, and what do they do for dogs?

Digestive enzymes help your dog turn food into smaller, usable nutrients. Imagine your dog finishing his meal. The next step is that the food moves through the stomach and small intestine, where digestive enzymes break down larger food molecules into smaller pieces. Proteins break down into amino acids, fats into fatty acids, and carbohydrates into simpler sugars. 

If your dog has a healthy digestive system, then he can usually absorb these molecules without additional support. But if not, digestive enzyme supplements may help the digestive system along. Veterinarians usually prescribe enzyme supplements after assessing your dog for an enzyme deficiency. 

Types of dog digestive enzymes

Different enzymes work on different parts of your dog’s meal. They break down your pup’s food into protein, fats, and carbohydrates. Digestive enzymes have specific enough functions that they have names. These are the five digestive enzymes.  

Protease

Protease is a protein-processing enzyme. When your pup eats protein like chicken or beef, protease breaks those proteins into amino acids that your dog’s body can absorb and use.  Amino acids such as tyrosine support your dog’s overall well-being. 

Lipase

Lipases are the fat and oil specialists. They break down fats into smaller pieces that the body can absorb. This matters because fat is more than calories. Dogs rely on dietary fat for energy, healthy skin and coat, cell function, hormone production, and even the absorption of vitamins like A, D, E, and K. 

When a dog doesn’t digest fat properly, it can be a sign of pancreatic problems. One such pancreatic concern is exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI). It’s related to poor fat digestion and can lead to weight loss, greasy stools, and an unhealthy coat. 

Amylase

Amylase breaks down starch and other carbohydrates into simpler sugars that provide your dog energy. So when your dog eats rice, oats, or other starchy foods,  amylase gets to work. 

Cellulase

Cellulase breaks down cellulose, a type of fiber found in plants. When your pup eats fruits or vegetables, cellulase helps them use that fiber. Cellulase is often found in digestive enzyme supplements to support fiber digestion. 

Lactase 

Lactase breaks down lactose. If you’re lactose intolerant, you’re familiar with the bloating and gas that can accompany lactose if you eat or drink dairy products. What you may not realize is that dogs can become lactose intolerant as they get older.  And, their symptoms are similar, including loose stools and diarrhea. 

When your dog may need enzyme supplements 

Most healthy dogs produce the digestive enzymes they need to break down their food and absorb nutrients. However, some dogs do develop digestive problems that can interfere with healthy digestion. If your dog shows any of the following symptoms, your veterinarian may recommend testing to determine whether a digestive enzyme supplementation is appropriate. 

Gas or bloating: Occasional gas is one thing, but if your dog seems to be gassy or bloated frequently, they may not be digesting their food properly. The reason is that partially digested food reaches the intestine, where it can ferment, producing excess gas.

Diarrhea or loose stools: If your dog has persistent diarrhea or loose stools, they may not be absorbing the nutrients from their food. However, there are many reasons why your dog could have frequent diarrhea, so it’s important to consult your veterinarian. Other reasons can include infections, food sensitivities, and even intestinal problems.

Undigested food in stool: Have you ever picked up your pup’s poo and found bits of undigested food? If so, that’s a sign the food isn’t being fully digested. This could be because it’s slipping through the digestive tract too fast. If this happens on occasion, it’s not such a big deal, but if it’s a regular occurrence, you’ll certainly want to schedule a visit with a veterinarian.

Weight loss despite normal eating: If your dog is eating normally but is still losing weight, your pup may have a pancreatic problem that’s preventing them from absorbing nutrients. Your vet will evaluate your dog and, if appropriate, may recommend digestive enzyme supplements. 

Large, pale, or greasy stools: Dogs with digestive enzyme deficiencies may produce unusually large stools. They usually include bits of undigested food. In some cases, stools can appear pale, greasy, or oily too due to poor fat digestion.

Poor coat condition: A dull coat and dry skin can have many underlying causes, but insufficient nutrients may be a contributing factor. Healthy dogs usually have a healthy coat.

It’s important to note that while these symptoms can occur in dogs with enzyme deficiencies, they can also be associated with other digestive conditions. That’s why it’s important to consult with your veterinarian before giving digestive enzyme supplements or making significant changes to your dog’s diet. 

How to give digestive enzymes to dogs

Veterinarians most often recommend digestive enzyme supplements for dogs with conditions affecting digestion or pancreatic function. One of those conditions is exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) in dogs. 

Enzyme supplements are available in powder, tablet, and chewable forms. However, the right product depends on your dog’s individual health needs and the reasons you and your vet are considering supplementation. 

If your veterinarian suspects a digestive disorder, they may recommend testing to determine whether digestive enzymes are appropriate and, if so, advise you on the type and how to incorporate them into your dog’s diet. 

Yet there are differing opinions within the veterinary community about whether healthy dogs can benefit from supplemental enzymes.

Some holistic veterinarians believe digestive enzymes may support digestion even in healthy dogs and cats who eat processed foods. Veterinarian Jean Hofve, DVM, wrote an article about digestive enzymes, stating that enzyme supplements “can be used for pancreatic and GI issues, but are also beneficial for healthy patients eating heat-processed pet foods.” 

However, many veterinary nutrition experts believe that dogs naturally produce the digestive enzymes they need and that supplementation is for pups with diagnosed digestive problems. It’s best to discuss with your veterinarian. If you prepare your dog’s food at home, your veterinarian may also recommend additional nutrition support. Find out more in our guide to Dog Supplements for Homemade Food. 

Natural digestive enzymes for dogs

Some whole human foods contain naturally occurring enzymes or compounds that support healthy digestion. They’re not substitutes for veterinary care or digestive enzyme supplements when needed, but they could be occasional treats as part of a balanced diet. 

• Bananas contain fiber, potassium, and naturally occurring enzymes that help break down carbohydrates. Plus, many dogs love bananas. 
• Mangos contain digestive enzymes, including amylase, which helps break down carbs. If you feed your pup a small taste of mango, make sure you’ve removed the peel and never let your pup have the pit, as it could be a choking hazard. 
• Ginger is well-known for its digestive properties, and small pieces can help support your doggo’s digestion. 
• Honey is nature’s medicine and has plenty of natural enzymes. However, it’s high in sugar and may not be appropriate for all dogs. 
• Apple cider vinegar can also help with your pup’s digestion, but use it in moderation if you choose to use it at all. Because every dog is different, there’s no standard teaspoon amount appropriate for all dogs, so consult your veterinarian before using it.  
• Fermented veggies contain beneficial microorganisms and enzymes produced during fermentation. If you feed your pup fermented veggies, make sure they’re free of garlic, onions, and excess salt.  

These foods provide naturally occurring enzymes but are not a replacement for digestive enzyme therapy for dogs with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI). If your dog has recurring digestive issues, consult your veterinarian. 

Support your dog’s digestive health

Digestive enzymes play an important role in supporting your dog’s healthy digestive system and overall gut health. Dogs with a healthy digestive tract can absorb nutrients from their diet and use them for energy, a shiny coat, and overall health. Most healthy dogs naturally produce the enzymes they need, but some dogs with digestive disorders or pancreatic conditions may benefit from supplemental enzymes. 

If your dog experiences prolonged digestive issues such as weight loss, loose stools, excessive gas, or changes in appetite, talk with your veterinarian to identify the underlying cause. 

FAQ