Instructions
Check the results indicating the general metabolism function. The glucose levels, abbreviated as GLU, have normal values between 60 and 120 mg/dL. Levels over 120 may point to hyperglycemia; should the test indicate a blood sugar under 60 mg/dL, this indicates that the dog is hypoglycemic. The lactate dehydrogenase or LDH should be between 10-273 U/L.
Check the values for the tests that assess the kidney function. Normal levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) are between 9 and 27 mg/dL and any results above or below these values can point to kidney disease.
Compare your dog's results with the normal levels of electrolytes. Normal sodium (Na) levels are between 140 and 153 mmol/L and the chloride (Cl) count should be between 106 and 118 mmol/L. Results above or below the normal limits may mean your dog has a condition affecting the adrenal glands, the heart or the kidneys. Additional tests are necessary to identify the problem.
Check the tests for liver function: the total protein (TP), the cholesterol (CHOL), and the total bilirubin (TBILI). Normal TP should be between 5.2 and 7.8 gm/dL and lower levels may indicate poor nutrition or an infection. Elevated levels of TP can point to a viral infection. Results between 0.0 and 0.4 mg/dL of TBILI are considered normal and elevated levels can mean that the dog has a diseased liver.
Check if the levels of Thyroxine (T4) in your dog are between the normal ranges: 1.0 and 4.7 ug/dL. Abnormal levels may mean your dog has hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
Check the lipase (LIP) levels. Results between 200 and 700 U/L indicate your dog is healthy. Otherwise, the dog may have pancreatitis.
How to Interpret Blood Panels of Dogs
Veterinarians typically perform four types of tests to assess the condition of a dog: a complete blood count (CBC), chemistry panels for various organs (biochemical profile), urinalysis and thyroid function tests. The CBC measures the number of red and white blood cells, hemoglobin and platelets, while the blood chemistry panels provide information about the chemical constituents of the blood. The results of the chemistry panel can indicate if there are any problems with the dog's organs including the kidneys, the liver or the pancreas. The biochemical profile is performed on the serum in the blood.