Acute pancreatitis in 2 dogs is discussed. A possible underlying cause was present in 1 dog. The clinicalsigns and routine blood results were unspecific and insufficient to confirm the diagnosis. Acute pancreatitiswas diagnosed during exploratory celiotomy (case 1) and by abdominal ultrasonography (case 2). Aggressivemedical treatment consisted of fluid administration, analgesics, anti-ulcer therapy, antibiotics, transfusion offresh frozen plasma (FFP) and nutritional support. Despite the presence of negative prognostic factors,intensive therapy and monitoring resulted in complete recovery in both patients.