If your dog’s stools are still soft, loose, or inconsistent while using pancreatic enzymes, it’s usually a sign that something in the current routine needs to be adjusted. In most cases, ongoing stool issues are related to relying on a lower potency 6x or 8x enzyme product that simply isn’t strong enough for your dog’s needs, or using the wrong enzyme dose. Switching to a higher potency enzyme like Pan-tenex and dialing in the correct dose typically resolves these issues when done carefully and consistently.
Potency Matters: 6x and 8x Enzymes May Not Be Enough
Not all enzyme products are created equal. Many products on the market use 6x or 8x pancreatin, which contains significantly lower concentrations of lipase, protease, and amylase compared to 10x products. Dogs with more significant digestive challenges often do not achieve ideal stool quality on lower potency products, even if the dose seems correct.
Pan-tenex is a 10x potency porcine enzyme powder, meaning it contains 10 times the concentration of key digestive enzymes compared to standard 1x pancreatin, and more than 6x or 8x products. Because it’s stronger, you can use less powder per meal while still supporting proper digestion, which often leads to firmer stools and better nutrient absorption.
For a deeper explanation of why potency matters and how some dogs struggle on weaker products, read our article “Is Your Dog Truly Stable Using Pancreatin 6x or 8x?“.
Incorrect Enzyme Dosing Is a Common Cause
Getting the right dose is essential for stable digestion. Too little enzyme powder often results in stools that remain large, soft, or greasy, while too much can sometimes cause temporary irritation or loose stools during the adjustment period. It’s best to start low, hold the dose for several days, and then adjust gradually based on stool consistency.
To make sure you’re using the correct amount for your dog’s size and meal volume, follow the recommendations on our feeding guidelines page. This page outlines how to measure doses correctly and why consistency in both food quantity and enzyme amount is crucial.
Meal Preparation and Timing Can Affect Results
Even with the right product and dose, preparation matters. Pancreatic enzymes must be mixed into moistened food and allowed to rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes before feeding. Some dogs may do better with longer incubation times of 30 mins or more. If enzymes are added to dry kibble without moisture, or food is served cold, the enzymes may not activate properly, leading to incomplete digestion.
For clear step-by-step instructions, read How to Mix Enzyme Powder with Your Dog’s Food. Proper prep ensures the enzymes start breaking down food before your dog eats, which can make a significant difference in stool consistency.
Consistency and Monitoring Are Key
Every dog responds a little differently, so it’s important to feed consistent portions, measure enzyme powder accurately, and avoid frequent changes that make it hard to identify what’s working. Using our Dog Enzyme Digestive Health Stool Tracker is a great way to record stool quality, dose, and food type over time.
When to Seek Additional Help
If you’ve adjusted the dose according to the feeding guidelines, switched to a 10x product like Pan-tenex, and are still seeing consistently poor stools after two weeks, it may be time to review your dog’s overall diet and consult with your veterinary professional. Other factors such as food sensitivities, improper storage of the enzyme powder, or unrelated gastrointestinal conditions may be contributing to the issue.
For more enzyme troubleshooting and digestive health tips, browse our other help articles or contact us.
