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Anemia in Dogs: What You Need to Know

Anemia is a condition defined by low red blood cells (or hemoglobin) in the blood. It can occur in dogs when the dog is losing red blood cells (for example, anything that causes serious blood loss) or when the dog’s body does not produce enough hemoglobin or red blood cells.

 

Anemia can be caused by a number of serious underlying conditions, including cancer, immune-mediated disease, or severe blood loss caused by stomach ulcers or heavy parasite infestations/infections.

 

There are several different types of anemia, each related to a different cause. This page explains the types of anemia, common causes, signs, and treatments. If you suspect your dog has anemia, contact your veterinarian right away.

What Are the Different Types of Anemia in Dogs?

Different causes lead to different types of anemia.

Blood Loss Anemia:

Blood loss anemia is caused by a number of issues such as bleeding disorders or injuries. Other issues such as parasites, cancer, or ulcers could also lead to this type of anemia.

Aplastic or Non-Regenerative Anemia:

If a dog has aplastic or non-regenerative anemia, it means that there is an insufficient production of blood cells. Blood cells are made in the bone marrow. Kidney disease, parvovirus, chemotherapy drugs, bone marrow disease, and certain medications may cause this.

Methemoglobinemia:

This type of anemia occurs when the dog’s body produces too much methemoglobin. Hemoglobin allows the red blood cell to carry oxygen, while methemoglobin, an alternate form of hemoglobin, lacks this critical ability. As a result, when there is too much methemoglobin, the cells of the body aren’t getting the oxygen they need. Genetic disorders and exposure to toxins (including medications meant for human conditions like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and benzocaine) can also cause this type of anemia.

Hemolytic Anemia:

This type of anemia is the result of red blood cells in your dog’s body being destroyed or breaking down. The most common cause of this type of anemia is immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA), when the body treats the red blood cells as foreign and attacks them with antibodies, ultimately breaking them down. It can be caused by non-immune related conditions such as exposure to toxins, parasites, or hereditary diseases.
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What Are the Signs of Anemia in Dogs?

If a dog has anemia, it may have one or more of the signs below which can vary depending on the cause. The diagnosis of anemia is ultimately made based on a blood test.

 

  • Pale gums
  • Weakness and/or lethargy
  • Black stool
  • Fast pulse and/or rapid breathing
  • Lethargy
  • Loss of appetite
  • Weight loss

What Causes Anemia in Dogs?

Anemia is most often a result of another medical issue. These are some of the common causes. Please talk to your veterinarian if you believe your pet has anemia.

Chronic diseases

A number of chronic diseases may suppress red blood cell production including bone marrow disease, kidney disease, and more.

Cushing’s Disease

A serious condition in which adrenal glands overproduce cortisol, a stress hormone.

Infections

Infections caused by certain bacteria, viruses, or other organisms can lead to anemia by directly damaging and destroying red blood cells.

Toxins

Many toxins (drugs, plants, or chemicals) can cause anemia if they are ingested or not used as prescribed.

Blood Loss

Injuries, surgeries, severe parasite infestations, and more may lead to anemia due to blood loss.

Cancer

Certain cancers such as lymphoma may result in anemia. Chemotherapy used to combat cancer may also cause this.

Poor Nutrition

Deficiencies in nutrition necessary to produce red blood cells may also result in anemia. The most common is iron deficiency.
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Anemia Treatment in Dogs

The prognosis for anemia depends on the cause and whether treatment is available for the underlying issue. After your vet has established a diagnosis, they will recommend the best possible treatment plan for the dog’s type of anemia. Treatments may include surgery, blood transfusion, chemotherapy, deworming or parasite medications, a change in medications, antibiotics or immunosuppressive drugs such as steroids.
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How to Help Prevent Anemia in Dogs?

Some types of anemia described above can’t be prevented, but there are actions that can be taken to help prevent some of the causes of certain types of anemia.

 

  • Providing a healthy diet
  • Keeping up with annual wellness visits with your veterinarian
  • Using broad-spectrum parasite control products year-round
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DR. DESTINY COLEMAN

Dr. Coleman is a graduate of the UPenn Veterinary School and has a passion for preventive medicine for dogs and cats. She enjoys educating and building relationships in the veterinary clinic with a background in general practice and clinic management. She now enjoys educating in her role as a Professional Services Veterinarian with Boehringer Ingelheim.
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Dr. Derstiny Coleman
Dr. Coleman is a graduate of the UPenn Veterinary School and has a passion for preventive medicine for dogs and cats. She enjoys educating and building relationships in the veterinary clinic with a background in general practice and clinic management. She now enjoys educating in her role as a Professional Services Veterinarian with Boehringer Ingelheim.
Image of Dr. Destiny Coleman | Healthy Habits For New Pets