Function

• White blood cells are often referred to as leukocytes. The main function of white blood cells is to protect the dog's body against invading bacteria, viruses and fungi.
  
  

Types

• A dog's body has various types of white blood cells. The following are the types of white blood cells found in dogs: neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils, lymphocytes and monocytes.
  
  

Values

• A white blood cell count (WBC) would include all types of white blood cells. According to Pet Education, normal ranges for a WBC count in a dog would be approximately between 6,000 and 17,000 per microliter.
  
  

Significance

• A finding of a low white blood count in dogs is often indicative of overwhelming viral infections, exposure to toxins, bone marrow abnormalities, or severe infections with sepsis.
  
  

Conclusion

• The condition of having low white blood cells, often referred to as ''leukopenia,'' is most likely suggestive of something major going on in the dog's body. This often requires a battery of tests, especially when dealing with very low numbers.