EPI in German Shepherds (Losing Weight Despite Eating)

Your dog clears every bowl, yet keeps getting thinner. That puzzle has several possible causes, and one is exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) [1]. The German Shepherd is the breed most linked to it [1].

What is EPI in dogs?

• The pancreas doesn't make enough digestive enzymes [1].
• So food isn't properly digested, even when the dog eats a lot [1].
• In German Shepherds, the usual cause is a slow loss of the enzyme-making tissue [1][2].

Did you know? German Shepherds are often said to make up about two-thirds of diagnosed EPI cases in dogs [1].

Is EPI genetic?

Yes, in this breed it's considered inherited [1][2]. In a 12-year study, some puppies of two affected parents developed EPI, but not all of them [2]. So it runs in families, but isn't fully predictable.

It's not an infection and doesn't spread between dogs [1][2].

Who is most at risk?

• German Shepherds [1].
• Young adult dogs. This is not an old-age problem [1].
• Dogs whose parents or siblings had EPI [2].

Can EPI be prevented?

• The main step is careful breeding: avoid breeding from affected dogs or their close relatives [1][2].
• Getting a puppy? Ask the breeder about any family history of EPI [2].

When should I see a vet?

See a licensed vet if you notice:

• Weight loss with a normal or bigger appetite [1].
• Loose, bulky, pale or greasy-looking poop, or ongoing diarrhoea [1].
• Occasional vomiting along with the signs above [1].

Other gut problems can look the same, so let a vet find the cause [1].

FAQ

Why is my dog losing weight even though it eats a lot?

There are several possible reasons, including EPI [1]. A vet can find the cause.

Is EPI contagious?

No. It's inherited, not an infection [1][2].

Can a dog live with EPI long-term?

That's a question for your vet after examining your dog. This page doesn't cover treatment.