How many types of K9 blood are there ?
More than a dozen blood group systems that have been identified in dogs. Specific red cell proteins, referred to as Dog Erythrocyte Antigens (DEAs) followed by a number, determine blood type. One blood type (DEA 1.1) has been shown to cause reactions in the recipient animal. Dogs that are negative for DEA 1.1 are considered “universal donors”. DEA 1.1 negative dogs should only receive DEA 1.1 negative blood, whereas DEA 1.1 positive dogs may get DEA 1.1 positive or negative blood. Your dog will be provided with a collar tag that will indicate blood type.