Hematologic differences between Dachshunds and mixed breed dogs

Abstract

Background: Healthy Dachshunds, like Greyhounds, are reported to have a higher HCT than other dog breeds; however, there appears to be no objective information to support this observation.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine whether RBC counts, indices, and total and differential WBC counts differ between Dachshunds and mixed breed dogs.

Methods: In this retrospective study, CBC data and total solids were compared between 61 healthy Dachshunds and 60 mixed breed dogs that were presented for health check, dental prophylaxis, or neutering to a university and a private clinic.

Results: Dachshunds had higher mean PCV (52% vs 50%; P = .047), mean HCT (52% vs 48%; P = .0003), mean RBC count (7.7 × 10(6) /μL vs 7.1 × 10(6) /μL; P = .0004), and mean HGB concentration (18.2 g/dL vs 16.8 g/dL; P = .0003) than mixed breed dogs. There were slight differences in HCT and HGB concentration between clinics (P < .05). There was no evidence of a difference in MCV, MCHC, and total solids between breeds (P > .5). More Dachshunds than mixed breed dogs had RBC variables above the reference interval: 29% vs 2% for HCT (P = .001); 40% vs 7% for HGB concentration (P = .0006); and 26% vs 5% for RBC count (P = .01). There were statistically significant but clinically unimportant differences in differential WBC counts.

Conclusions: Compared with mixed breed dogs, Dachshunds have higher PCV, HCT, RBC count, and HGB concentration. Veterinarians should consider these differences when interpreting CBCs.

Keywords: Hematocrit; PCV; RCB; hemoglobin.