canine blood work abbreviations

Canine Blood Work Abbreviations: A Comprehensive Guide

By Sarah GarciaJanuary 9, 2026

If you're a pet parent or a veterinary professional, understanding canine blood work abbreviations can make you well-versed in your dog's health records. Blood tests are essential for diagnosing various conditions, monitoring treatment progress, and maintaining overall health. However, the results can be a maze of abbreviations and codes. Let's demystify this labyrinth with our comprehensive guide.

Understanding canine blood work starts with knowing what each test is checking. We'll delve into common abbreviations and their meanings in this article, helping you interpret your furry friend's lab results with confidence.

Complete Blood Count (CBC)

The CBC is one of the most common canine blood tests, providing insights into your dog's blood cells, indicating infections, anemia, or blood disorders. Let's explore the key abbreviations:

a dog and cat are labeled in the words blood types

an info sheet describing the different types of blood vessels in dogs and cats, with text below

White Blood Cells (WBC)

WBCs help fight infections. They include Neutrophils, Lymphocytes, Monocytes, Eosinophils, and Basophils. An increase in WBCs may indicate an infection or inflammation, while a decrease might suggest an immune system disorder or certain cancers.

Red Blood Cells (RBC)

RBCs carry oxygen to body tissues. Key RBC measurements include Hgb (Hemoglobin), Hct (Hematocrit), and RBC count. An increase in these values may indicate dehydration, while a decrease could signal anemia.

Canine Blood Tests: What's In The Blood—Results Interpretation

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an info sheet describing the different types of blood

Platelets (PLT)

Platelets help with blood clotting. A low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) may cause uncontrolled bleeding, while an elevated count (thrombocytosis) might indicate a blood cancer or bone marrow disorder.

Chemistry Panel

A chemistry panel evaluates your dog's organs, especially the liver and kidneys, as well as their electrolyte and metabolite levels. Familiarize yourself with these common abbreviations:

Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT)

ALT is an enzyme found primarily in the liver. Elevated levels (ALT elevation) may indicate liver damage, such as hepatitis or other liver diseases.

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Dog Blood Tests Explained | What Every Dog Owner Should Know

Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)

BUN is a waste product filtered by the kidneys. An increase in BUN levels may suggest kidney dysfunction, dehydration, or increased protein intake. A decrease could indicate shock or liver failure.

Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP)

ALP is an enzyme found in various tissues, with the highest concentrations in the liver and bone. Increased ALP levels might indicate liver disease, bone growth, or Cushing's disease, while decreased levels could signal severe liver disease.

Proper interpretation of these abbreviations and their values allows you to work closely with your veterinarian to keep your dog's health in check. Regular health screenings and occasional blood tests play a crucial role in maintaining their overall well-being. So, stay informed and stay ahead of any potential health issues by understanding canine blood work abbreviations.