Glossary

Blood panel

A set of blood tests that counts blood cells and measures organ-related chemicals, used to screen healthy dogs and investigate illness.

Also called: bloodwork, blood work, CBC, complete blood count, chemistry panel, blood chemistry, senior panel

A blood panel usually combines two parts. The complete blood count, or CBC, counts red cells, white cells and platelets and looks for anemia, infection or clotting trouble. The chemistry profile measures substances such as enzymes, proteins, sugar and kidney and liver markers to show how organs are working.

Vets use panels to investigate illness, to check before anesthesia, to monitor long-term medication or disease, and to set a baseline in a healthy dog so later changes mean more. Many clinics recommend one yearly for seniors.

Results are compared with reference ranges, but those vary by lab, age and breed, so a number a little outside the range is not always a problem and a number within it does not rule out one. A panel is a clue, not a diagnosis, and a veterinarian interprets it with the exam.

Last reviewed November 8, 2026

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Related terms

Wellness exam A routine, nose-to-tail check-up of a healthy dog that updates vaccines, screens for hidden problems and tracks weight over time. Anesthesia A medically induced, controlled loss of consciousness for surgery, dental cleaning or imaging, with monitoring throughout. Senior wellness A preventive care plan for aging dogs, with more frequent exams and screening tests to catch age-related disease early. Chronic kidney disease A gradual, permanent loss of kidney function that causes increased thirst and urination, weight loss and poor appetite, mainly in older dogs.