Canine cancer testing · October 1, 2026
K9-LiquiDX: looking for canine cancer signals in the blood
A blood sample can carry information about a dog’s cancer. As cells die, they release fragments of DNA into the bloodstream. K9-LiquiDX, developed by University of Edinburgh spinout CanCan Diagnostics, uses next-generation sequencing to look for cancer-related genetic changes in those fragments.
The test launched commercially in 2024. Its appeal is straightforward: a blood draw may provide information about disease that is difficult to sample directly, and repeated testing may help track changes during or after treatment.
In its official brochure, CanCan describes uses ranging from helping with diagnosis to monitoring cancer, detecting early relapse and identifying genetic changes that may inform treatment selection. One focus is minimal residual disease, the small amount of cancer that may remain after treatment. These are the company’s intended applications; how well the test performs depends on the cancer type and stage.
There is already some published experience from everyday oncology practice. In a conference report from VCS 2025, the Eiffelvet clinic in Paris described using K9-LiquiDX in 55 dogs. Their patients had carcinomas, soft tissue sarcomas, lymphoma, melanoma, mast cell tumours, osteosarcoma, haemangiosarcoma and a heart-base tumour.
Among 45 completed results, the reports identified potential treatment options in 37 cases, and clinicians used the recommendations in 18. Seven dogs underwent repeat testing for residual-disease monitoring. In two dogs with soft tissue sarcoma, the blood signal disappeared after treatment, matching what clinicians were seeing.
That is useful early evidence of how the test can fit into clinical care. It does not yet tell us how often it catches recurrence before imaging or whether choosing treatment based on its findings improves survival. The report’s lead author is also a clinical scientific advisor to CanCan.
For owners interested in testing, the starting point is their own veterinarian. The vet can arrange the test with CanCan, collect blood in the company’s special stabilizing tube and send it to the laboratory in the UK. Results go back to the veterinarian for interpretation. The company explains the process in its FAQ.
CanCan also offers sequencing of stored tumour tissue to help interpret the blood findings. According to information provided directly by the company in October 2026, a blood test costs $600, with approximately $60 shipping from the U.S. Tumour sequencing combined with the first blood test costs $1,000 plus shipping. Owners should confirm any additional veterinary collection or pathology preparation fees.
Veterinarians can request ordering information at enquiries@cancandiagnostics.com or through CanCan’s contact page.