White blood cells, also called leukocytes, are a crucial part of your dog’s immune system. They’re the body’s defense force, fighting off infections and keeping your pup healthy.
So, what does it mean if a vet tells you your dog has a high white blood cell count? Simply put, it often signals that something’s not quite right. A higher-than-normal count (leukocytosis) means it’s time to figure out what’s going on and get your furry friend the right treatment.
This article will cover the potential causes of a dog high white blood cell count, how vets diagnose the issue, and what treatment options are available.
What are White Blood Cells (WBCs)?
White blood cells, also called leukocytes, are a key part of your dog’s immune system. Their job is to defend the body against infections, foreign invaders, and abnormal cells that could cause harm.
There are different kinds of WBCs, and each has a specialized role:
- Neutrophils: These cells target and fight bacterial infections.
- Lymphocytes: Lymphocytes are involved in fighting viral infections and driving other immune responses.
- Monocytes: Monocytes “eat” debris and pathogens through a process called phagocytosis.
- Eosinophils: These cells combat parasites and are involved in allergic reactions.
- Basophils: Basophils also play a role in allergic reactions and inflammation.
A complete blood count (CBC) includes a WBC count. It also includes a “differential,” which shows the proportions of each type of WBC.
Understanding Leukocytosis: High White Blood Cell Count in Dogs
When a vet says your dog has leukocytosis, it means their white blood cell (WBC) count is higher than normal. For dogs, the normal WBC range is generally between 4.0 and 15.5 x 10^9 cells/L. So, leukocytosis is typically diagnosed when the count goes above 15.5 x 10^9 cells/L.
What causes this elevation?
Common Causes of Leukocytosis
- Infection: Bacterial, viral, or even fungal infections can kick the body’s WBC production into high gear. Inflammation, often a result of infection, is a primary cause of neutrophilia.
- Inflammation: Inflammatory conditions, like pancreatitis or colitis, can also raise WBC counts.
- Stress: Stressful events, like surgery or a traumatic injury, can temporarily increase WBCs.
- Certain Medications: Some medications, particularly corticosteroids, can lead to leukocytosis.
Less Common Causes
Sometimes, a high white blood cell count points to something less common:
- Immune-mediated Diseases: Conditions like autoimmune hemolytic anemia can cause elevated WBCs.
- Cancer: Leukemia and lymphoma can result in abnormally high WBC counts.
Diagnosing the cause of a high white blood cell count
If your vet says your dog has a high white blood cell count, the next step is figuring out why. It’s important to work with your veterinarian through this process.
The vet will likely start with a thorough physical exam and run some initial tests:
- Complete Blood Count (CBC): This test counts the different types of blood cells and evaluates their condition.
- Blood Smear: A close look at the blood cells under a microscope.
- Urinalysis: A urine test to check for infection or other problems.
- Biochemistry Profile: Blood tests to evaluate organ function.
Depending on the results of these tests, your vet might recommend additional diagnostics, such as X-rays, ultrasound, or even a bone marrow sample.
Also, your vet will pay close attention to which types of white blood cells are elevated, as this can help narrow down the possibilities.
How is a high white blood cell count in dogs treated?
The main goal in treating a dog with a high white blood cell count is to address the root cause. Here are some examples of treatments your veterinarian might recommend.
- Infections: If bacteria caused the elevated white blood cells, your dog will likely need antibiotics. If the infection is viral or fungal, they may prescribe an antiviral or antifungal medication.
- Inflammation: Anti-inflammatory medications can help reduce the white blood cell count if inflammation is the culprit.
- Immune-mediated diseases: Medications that suppress the immune system are often used in these cases.
- Cancer: Cancer treatments may include chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery.
Your dog may also need supportive care, such as IV fluids, pain relief, and nutritional support. Follow-up visits with your veterinarian are essential for monitoring the effectiveness of the treatment and tracking your dog’s white blood cell count.
Conditions associated with specific white blood cell abnormalities
A high white blood cell count is a clue that something’s amiss in your dog’s body. Looking closely at which type of white blood cell is elevated can help your vet narrow down the possibilities.
- Neutrophilia: An elevated number of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell that fights infection, is called neutrophilia. Bacterial infections and inflammation are common causes.
- Lymphocytosis: An elevated number of lymphocytes, another type of infection-fighting white blood cell, is called lymphocytosis. Viral infections, chronic infections, and lymphoma can cause lymphocytosis.
- Eosinophilia: An elevated number of eosinophils, a white blood cell that responds to allergens and parasites, is called eosinophilia. Parasitic infections and allergic reactions are common triggers.
- Monocytosis: An elevated number of monocytes, a type of white blood cell that clears away dead cells and debris, is called monocytosis. Monocytosis may be caused by chronic inflammation, tissue death (necrosis), or fungal infections.
Final Thoughts
White blood cells are essential for your dog’s health, and a high white blood cell count (leukocytosis) can be a sign of infection, inflammation, or even cancer.
If your dog’s blood test results show leukocytosis, it’s important to take your pet to the veterinarian as soon as possible for a diagnosis and treatment plan. The sooner you find out what’s causing the high white blood cell count, the better the chances of managing the underlying condition and improving your dog’s overall health.