Anemia in Dogs

Anemia in dogs is a serious condition that can be caused by a number of underlying health issues. In this post, our Jesup vets explain the different types of anemia seen in dogs, as well as their symptoms of anemia and how it can be treated.

Anemia in Dogs

In dogs, anemia is a condition that indicates that your pet is suffering from an underlying disease or illness. Anemia occurs when your pet's body isn't producing enough red blood cells or hemoglobin, or when your dog suffers severe blood loss due to conditions such as cancer, or stomach ulcers, or if your dog has experienced trauma such as a serious accident or injury.

Types of Anemia Seen in Dogs

Blood Loss Anemia

Blood loss anemia occurs when your dog experiences significant blood loss resulting from an injury, surgery, bleeding disorder, or internal bleeding caused by conditions like cancer, ulcers, parasites, or other health issues. This type of anemia is considered regenerative because the bone marrow responds by increasing red blood cell production, but it may not be able to meet the increased demand.

Hemolytic Anemia

Hemolytic anemia is characterized by the destruction or breakdown of red blood cells in your dog's body. This form of anemia can be immune-mediated (such as immune-mediated hemolytic anemia or autoimmune hemolytic anemia) or non-immune-mediated, which can be caused by hereditary diseases, parasites, toxins, or low phosphorous levels.

Aplastic or Non-Regenerative Anemia

Aplastic or non-regenerative anemia develops when there is insufficient production of red blood cells in dogs. This can occur due to factors like toxin exposure, bone marrow disease, kidney disease, certain medications, chemotherapy drugs, or parvovirus infection.

Methemoglobinemia

Methemoglobinemia in dogs is characterized by elevated levels of methemoglobin in the blood. It can be caused by certain genetic disorders or exposure to toxins, including some medications meant for human use only (e.g., ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or benzocaine).

Signs That Your Dog May Be Anemic

If your pooch is suffering from anemia you may notice one or more of the following symptoms. Your dog's anemia symptoms will vary based upon the underlying cause of your pup's condition.

Causes of Anemia in Dogs

There are a number of conditions that can result in your pup developing anemia. Some of the most common causes of anemia in dogs include:

Treatment for Dogs with Anemia

If your pup is diagnosed with anemia, the treatment that your vet recommends will be based upon the underlying cause of the condition. Some of the treatments that your vet may recommend include:

The prognosis for dogs with anemia depends upon the availability of effective treatment for the underlying illness. Severe anemia in dogs can indicate a very serious or possibly fatal condition such as poisoning, cancer or an autoimmune condition. If your pooch is showing any signs of anemia contact your veterinarian as soon as possible to book an examination.

Preventing Anemia in Dogs

Preventing anemia in your dog comes down to preventing the conditions that cause anemia (whenever possible). Year-round parasite prevention medications to protect your dog against ticks, fleas, and worms is one way to help your dog avoid developing anemia.

Keeping toxic substances such as human medications and foods far out of your dog's reach as well as providing your dog with a healthy diet, may also help to prevent your dog from developing anemia.

If your canine companion is a breed that is susceptible to developing anemia (Shih Tzus, Labrador Retrievers, Miniature Schnauzers, and American Cocker Spaniels) regular wellness examinations twice yearly at your primary care veterinarian may help to detect the signs of anemia early, and provide treatment before the condition becomes more severe.

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.