Prevalence of dog erythrocyte antigen 1 in a population of dogs tested in California.

Abstract

Multiple studies have evaluated the breed-specific prevalence of dog erythrocyte antigen (DEA) 1 in various geographic regions. However, few large-scale studies exist that describe breed prevalence of DEA 1 in the United States. From January 2000 to October 2020, 6469 dogs had their RBC antigen type determined and were included in the study. The overall prevalence of DEA 1 in all dogs was 61.2%. Of 50 breeds with sample sizes ≥20, 8 breeds had a high prevalence (≥90%) of DEA 1-positive blood type: Basset Hound, Bernese Mountain Dog, Brittany, Dachshund, Miniature Pinscher, Miniature Schnauzer, Pug, and Rottweiler. Four breeds had a high prevalence (≥90%) of DEA 1-negative blood type: Boxer, English Bulldog, Flat-Coated Retriever, and French Bulldog. Numerous breeds with a sample size <20 and ≥5 were found to have 100% prevalence of a DEA 1 blood type, although these findings need to be confirmed with a larger sample size. No statistical difference in any breed based on sex was found. The results in this study are consistent with previously reported data in other countries. Knowledge of regional breed differences in DEA 1 prevalence can help to improve selection and recruitment of appropriate blood donor dogs.