Interbreed variation of biomarkers of lipid and glucose metabolism in dogs

Background Markers of lipid and glucose metabolism are used in both clinical practice and research. Detection of abnormal laboratory results often relies on species-specific reference intervals, but interbreed variation can also affect data interpretation. Objectives The purpose of the present study was to compare concentrations of selected biochemical variables among different dog breeds. Methods We analyzed a database containing information on biochemical variables from 534 dogs belonging to nine different breeds. All dogs were confirmed to be healthy based on history, physical examination, and ancillary tests. Concentrations of glucose, fructosamine, insulin, cholesterol, triglycerides, fatty acids, and C-reactive protein were compared using the nonparametric Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn's tests. Results All variables tested showed significant interbreed differences, although all breeds remained within the previously established RIs for dogs. Fructosamine, insulin, and cholesterol showed a wide interbreed variation that could affect the interpretation of results. Conclusions Breed is an important factor to consider when assessing energy metabolism in dogs, especially for markers like fructosamine, insulin, and cholesterol, which vary considerably among breeds.