The most common blood type in dogs is DEA 1.1 positive, found in about 40–60% of dogs.
🐶 Understanding Dog Blood Types
Dogs don’t have the simple ABO system like humans. Instead, they have more than 12 recognized blood groups, called Dog Erythrocyte Antigens (DEA). Each dog’s red blood cells may carry different combinations of these antigens, which makes transfusion medicine more complex.
🔑 Key Facts
- DEA 1.1 is the most clinically significant blood type:
- Around 40% of dogs are DEA 1.1 positive.
- Dogs that are DEA 1.1 negative are considered “universal donors” because their blood can be safely given to most other dogs without immediate reaction.
- Other blood groups include DEA 1.2, DEA 3, DEA 4, DEA 5, DEA 7, and more, but they are less commonly tested in routine veterinary practice.
- Unlike humans, dogs don’t naturally have antibodies against other blood types. This means a first transfusion is usually safe, but subsequent transfusions can trigger dangerous reactions if blood types are mismatched.
🩸 Why This Matters
- Emergency care: In trauma or surgery, knowing a dog’s blood type can save precious time.
- Blood donors: DEA 1.1 negative dogs are especially valuable as donors since their blood is broadly compatible.
- Breed tendencies: Some breeds are more likely to be DEA 1.1 positive or negative, which veterinarians consider when organizing blood banks.
📊 Quick Comparison
| Blood Type | Frequency | Clinical Importance |
|---|---|---|
| DEA 1.1 Positive | ~40–60% of dogs | Most common; transfusion risk if mismatched |
| DEA 1.1 Negative | ~40–60% of dogs | Universal donor; safest for transfusions |
| Other DEAs (3, 4, 5, 7, etc.) | Less common | Can cause delayed reactions |
So, if you’re curious about your own dog, vets can run a blood typing test to determine whether they’re DEA 1.1 positive or negative. It’s especially useful if your dog might ever donate blood or need a transfusion.
Check here, https://www.ringbio.com/products/pet/canine-blood-type-rapid-test-kit