Comparison of serum symmetric dimethylarginine, creatinine, and cystatin C in Shiba Inu dogs and other breeds

This study investigated breed-related differences in renal biomarkers in clinically healthy dogs, with a focus on Shiba Inu. Serum symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA), creatinine, and cystatin C concentrations were measured in 23 Shiba Inu and 36 dogs of other breeds. Serum SDMA concentrations were significantly higher in Shiba Inu compared to other breeds. The median serum SDMA concentration (12.3 vs 9.5 μg/dL) and reference intervals (8.3–18.4 vs 4.4–14.6 μg/dL) in Shiba Inu were higher than those in other breeds. Serum creatinine concentrations were also higher in Shiba Inu, whereas no consistent differences were observed in serum cystatin C concentrations when body weight was partially matched between groups. These findings suggest that Shiba Inu may have a tendency toward higher SDMA and creatinine concentrations; therefore, when evaluating renal function in this breed, these biomarkers may need to be interpreted cautiously and in conjunction with other clinical assessments.