Types of Anemia in Dogs

While anemia itself is a condition that should be treated as soon as possible, it is important to have your dog examined and diagnosed by a vet in order to determine the underlying cause of this condition. Here, our Somerset vets share the different types of anemia that may affect your dog, the common causes and what can be done to treat this condition.

Anemia in Dogs

Anemia is a condition that affects many animals, not only dogs and while anemia itself can be managed it is the underlying cause that should be treated as soon as possible. Anemia occurs when your pet's body isn't producing enough red blood cells or hemoglobin 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.

What Are The Types of Anemia That Can Affect Dogs?

Blood Loss Anemia

Blood loss anemia occurs when your dog has experienced severe loss of blood due to an injury, surgery, or a bleeding disorder. This form of anemia could also be caused by internal bleeding due to cancer, ulcers, parasites, or other health conditions.

Hemolytic Anemia

Hemolytic anemia is caused by the destruction or breakdown of red blood cells in your dog's body. This form of anemia is often the result of immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) or autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA), or non-immune mediated caused by a hereditary disease, parasites, toxins, or low phosphorous levels.

Aplastic or Non-Regenerative Anemia

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

Methemoglobinemia

Methemoglobinemia in dogs is caused by too much methemoglobin in the blood due to certain genetic disorders, or exposure to toxins including a number of different medications meant for human use only such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen or benzocaine.

Typically Signs of Anemia in Dogs

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 on the underlying cause of your pup's condition.

Some of the Common 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:

The Treatment For Anemia in Dogs

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

The outcome of this condition heavily relies on what the underlying condition is, how severe it is and whether or not it is treatable. Sadly, anemia can indicate that your dog is suffering from a very serious or possibly fatal condition such as poisoning, cancer or an autoimmune condition. If you notice any signs of anemia you should bring your pup in for a checkup as soon as possible.

Some of the Ways Anemia in Dogs Can Be Prevented

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 are 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.

Are you concerned about your dog and whether they may be showing signs of anemia? Contact our Somerset vets today to book an examination for your dog.