Canine Creatinine (Serum)
This test measures the level of creatinine, a waste product from muscle metabolism, in your dog’s blood. It helps assess kidney function.
["Creatinine levels help doctors check how well your dog’s kidneys are working."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 77536-1
- Short code
- AmNART-Quad
- Synonyms
- —
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Not applicable - cognitive assessment test, not a specimen-based laboratory test
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 18 years
- Method
- amnart
- CPT
- 96127
- SNOMED
- 449081000124108
- Specimen volume
- Not applicable - no specimen required for this cognitive assessment
- Stability
- Not applicable - no specimen required
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 1–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your vet may order this test if your dog shows signs of kidney problems, such as vomiting, loss of appetite, increased thirst, or changes in urine output. It can also be part of routine health checks for older dogs or those with chronic conditions.
What Does a High or Low Level Mean?
High creatinine levels may indicate kidney disease or damage, where the kidneys aren’t filtering waste properly. Low levels might suggest dehydration or other metabolic issues, though this is less common.
How Is This Test Performed?
A blood sample is taken from your dog, usually from a vein in the leg or ear. The sample is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to measure creatinine concentration.
What Should You Expect Before or After the Test?
Your dog may experience a brief moment of discomfort during the blood draw, but it’s usually over quickly. Afterward, they can resume normal activities. No special preparation is needed, but fasting may be required depending on the vet’s instructions.
Reference range
Correct pronunciation of the word 'quadruped' is expected in cognitively intact adults. Errors may indicate dyslexia, aphasia, or cognitive impairment.N/A
No special patient preparation is required. Ensure the patient is alert, cooperative, and wearing properly functioning hearing aids if needed. Test should be administered in a quiet environment free from distractions.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Creatinine levels are a key indicator of kidney function. Elevated levels often signal impaired kidney function, prompting further evaluation for conditions like chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, or dehydration. Regular monitoring can help manage these conditions effectively.
Short name
Canine Creatinine
Frequently asked questions
Will my dog need to fast before this test?
How long will it take to get the results?
Can I ask for a different type of specimen for this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy