Effect of age on oxidative stress and hematological parameters in healthy male dogs

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of age on oxidative stress and hematological parameters in healthy dogs by measuring malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) levels. A total of 46 healthy male dogs were divided into two groups: 3-8 months (n=23) and 2-4 years (n=23). All animals were clinically examined and maintained under identical housing and feeding conditions. Hematological parameters were analyzed using an automated analyzer, and serum MDA and GPx levels were measured by ELISA. Data were analyzed using independent samples t-test. RBC, HGB, and HCT values were significantly lower in young dogs (p<0.05), while WBC and lymphocyte counts were significantly higher (p<0.05). MDA levels were significantly higher in young dogs (p<0.001), whereas GPx activity was significantly higher in adult dogs (p<0.01). Young dogs are more susceptible to oxidative stress, while antioxidant defense mechanisms improve with age. These findings emphasize the importance of age-specific clinical evaluation and nutritional strategies.