Autoimmune Haemolytic Anaemia in Dogs: Causes, Signs & Treatment

Autoimmune Haemolytic Anaemia (AIHA) is a serious condition where a dog's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys its own red blood cells, essential for carrying oxygen to organs like the brain. This disorder can be life-threatening, but understanding it helps responsible owners seek timely veterinary care and improve outcomes.

What Causes Autoimmune Haemolytic Anaemia in Dogs?

AIHA may occur as a primary disorder, meaning the cause is currently unknown, or as a secondary condition triggered by other underlying health issues. In cases of secondary AIHA, the dog's immune system produces antibodies against red blood cells in response to these triggers, mistakenly causing their destruction. Common underlying causes include:

• Cancer
• Chronic inflammatory diseases
• Reactions to certain medications or drugs
• Some vaccines
• Exposure to viral or bacterial infections

This abnormal immune response can cause red blood cells to be destroyed either within blood vessels or by the spleen and liver, leading to a rapid decrease in oxygen delivery to the body.

Recognising the Signs of AIHA

Symptoms stem from anaemia and include general lethargy, weakness, and difficulty breathing due to insufficient oxygen. Watch for the following signs in your dog:

• Loss of appetite
• Rapid or laboured breathing
• Vomiting
• Pale or yellowed gums and whites of the eyes (indicative of jaundice)
• Excessive thirst and urination
• Dark-coloured urine
• Weakness and tiredness
• Blood in faeces

These symptoms often arise because the liver struggles to process the increased bilirubin produced when red blood cells are destroyed. Enlargement of the liver, spleen, and lymph nodes can also occur, sometimes accompanied by heart murmurs.

Which Breeds Are More Susceptible?

While AIHA can affect any dog regardless of breed or sex, certain breeds are reportedly more predisposed. Spayed females in middle age may have a higher risk. Breeds commonly affected include:

• Bichon Frise puppies
• Entlebucher Mountain Dog puppies
• Cocker Spaniel puppies
• Miniature Poodle puppies
• Irish Setter puppies
• Old English Sheepdog puppies

How Is AIHA Diagnosed?

Your vet will perform various tests to confirm AIHA and rule out other causes. These include:

• A complete blood count to assess red blood cell levels
• A chemical blood profile to evaluate organ function
• A urinalysis

Additional screenings may involve looking for infectious diseases, parasites, and imaging tests such as X-rays or ultrasounds to examine for cancer or organ enlargement. Understanding your dog's full medical history also supports accurate diagnosis.

Treatment Options and Care

Immediate stabilisation is crucial to prevent further red blood cell destruction. Treatment often includes immunosuppressive drugs, such as corticosteroids, which help reduce the immune system's attack on red blood cells. In severe cases, urgent blood transfusions may be necessary, although these carry risk if the immune attack continues.

To support oxygen delivery, vets may also use blood substitutes. Addressing any underlying cause is equally important. Supportive care including hydration and monitoring will be needed, often requiring hospitalisation.

Long-Term Management and Aftercare

Dogs recovering from AIHA typically require ongoing care and follow-up veterinary visits to monitor their condition. Because relapses are common, long-term immunosuppressive therapy and supportive treatments are often necessary to maintain health. This reinforces the importance of responsible ownership and prompt attention to health changes.

Final Thoughts: Acting Early Makes a Difference

Autoimmune Haemolytic Anaemia in dogs is a complex and potentially fatal disease that demands early diagnosis and aggressive treatment. Responsible dog owners who understand risk factors and watch carefully for symptoms can make all the difference in their pet's prognosis. Always work closely with your vet to provide the best care and ensure prompt intervention if AIHA is suspected.

For those looking to find a healthy dog, always choose reputable breeders or consider adoption to support responsible pet ownership.