Some dogs are more sensitive to certain foods than others, especially if they are already experiencing digestive issues. While digestive enzymes like Pan-tenex can help improve digestion and stool quality, it’s just as important to know what foods to avoid. Many ingredients commonly found in dog food or treats can make symptoms worse, even when enzymes are being used correctly.
Common Culprits in Dog Digestion Problems
Not all foods are created equal when it comes to canine digestion. Even small amounts of the wrong ingredient can trigger discomfort, bloating, or inconsistent stool. If your dog is struggling, eliminating known problem foods may help enzymes work more effectively.
Foods That Commonly Cause Issues
Keep an eye out for the following ingredients in your dog’s meals and treats:
- Dairy Products: Many dogs lack the ability to properly digest lactose, which can lead to gas and soft stool.
- High-Fiber Ingredients: Peas, lentils, and certain grains are often added to food but can cause bulky or loose stool in sensitive dogs.
- Fatty Meats: Rich proteins like pork or overly high-fat beef can be difficult to digest, especially for dogs with pancreatic concerns.
- Artificial Additives: Colors, flavors, and preservatives are unnecessary and can irritate the digestive tract.
- Wheat and Corn: These fillers are common in lower-quality food and can trigger reactions in dogs with intolerances.
How Diet and Enzymes Work Together
Even the best digestive enzyme won’t fix everything if the dog’s diet is consistently working against them. By avoiding irritating ingredients and using a 10x potency product like Pan-tenex, your dog’s digestive system has a much better chance to stabilize and function properly.
Feeding a clean, simple diet that’s low in fiber and free of fillers makes it easier for enzymes to break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates efficiently. For a deeper look at recommended feeding practices, see our article Best Diets for Dogs Needing Digestive Enzymes: Low-Fiber Options.
When to Reevaluate Your Dog’s Diet
If your dog’s poop remains greasy, soft, or foul-smelling even after starting enzymes, their food may still be part of the problem. See our article Loose Stool in Dogs: What It Means & How to Help for a closer look at stool types and what they could be telling you.
In some cases, switching to a cooked or raw diet with limited ingredients may yield better results. For guidance on mixing enzymes into different types of food, refer to How to Mix Enzyme Powder with Your Dog’s Food.
Final Tips and When to Ask for Help
If you’ve already cleaned up your dog’s diet and are using digestive enzymes but symptoms continue, it may be time to reassess. Dosing may vary by product, meal size so it’s important to read the instructions carefully. As with any supplement, enzymes should only be given to your dog on the recommendation of and under the supervision of a veterinary professional.
If you have questions or need more help, check out our full library of help articles or contact us. We’re here to support you and your dog every step of the way.
