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

Abstract

BACKGROUND: 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. KEY FINDINGS: 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 &#x2265;20, 8 breeds had a high prevalence (&#x2265;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 (&#x2265;90%) of DEA 1-negative blood type: Boxer, English Bulldog, Flat-Coated Retriever, and French Bulldog. Numerous breeds with a sample size <20 and &#x2265;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. SIGNIFICANCE: Knowledge of regional breed differences in DEA 1 prevalence can help to improve selection and recruitment of appropriate blood donor dogs.