Here’s the simplest way to understand dog blood types without any extra complexity.
What dog owners should know
• Dogs have different blood types
They don’t use the human A, B, O system. Their main type is called DEA 1.1.
• The most important thing:
Your dog is either DEA 1.1–positive or DEA 1.1–negative.
• Why it matters
If your dog ever needs a blood transfusion, the vet must match the blood type to avoid a bad reaction.
• First transfusion is usually safe
Dogs aren’t born with antibodies against other dog blood types, so the first transfusion is usually okay.
The second one can be risky if the blood type isn’t matched.
• Some dogs are “universal donors”
DEA 1.1–negative dogs can safely donate to many other dogs.
• You can ask your vet to test your dog
It’s quick and helpful to know in emergencies.