What is a normal PCV range for dogs?

• A. 33-45%
• B. 25-35%
• C. 50-60%
• D. 40-50%

Answer: (A)

Packed cell volume (PCV) is the percentage of blood that is made up of red blood cells, reflecting the hematocrit. In healthy dogs, PCV values typically fall in the low to mid 30s up to the mid 40s, with some variation between labs, breeds, and individual animals. The range 33-45% best fits this common normal span, capturing the usual healthy variation. Values lower than that (for example 25-35%) are more consistent with anemia or blood loss, while values well above (like 50-60%) suggest polycythemia or dehydration. A range like 40-50% can be seen in some contexts but would miss dogs with lower normal values, so 33-45% is the most representative normal interval.