Hematologic differences between Dachshunds and mixed breed dogs

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.

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.

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.

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.

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