Pet Blood Bank: Dog Blood Types + Common Negative Blood Breeds 

Similar to humans, dogs have different blood types.  This means if they require a blood transfusion they should receive the same blood type wherever possible. Dogs can be either DEA1 Positive or DEA1 Negative blood type.  Most dogs in the UK are DEA1 Positive. As this blood type is most common, it means the stock for positive blood is usually healthy.  Dogs with this blood type will be invited to donate once or twice a year to continue this supply.  

However, it is estimated that only 30% of dogs in the UK are DEA1 Negative blood type.  The demand for this type of blood is very high as it can be given to any dog in an emergency situation. Dogs that are of a negative blood type will be invited to donate up to six times a year. This is why it is important to publicise the work of Pet Blood Bank.  

Some dog breeds are more likely than others to hold a negative blood type: 

• Airedale Terrier 
• American Bulldog 
• Basset Hound 
• Bearded Collie 

• Border Collie 
• Boxer 
• Curly Coated Retriever 
• Dobermann 
• Dogue de Bordeaux 

• Flat Coated Retriever 
• German Shepherd 
• Greyhound 
• Lurcher 
• Saluki 

• Old English Sheepdog 
• Weimaraner 

No matter the blood type, every donation is vital to help save lives of other dogs in emergency and medical cases. Pet Blood Bank will only ask for donations to replenish their supply.