C-reactive protein (CRP) is a major acute phase protein in dogs. Its concentration increases rapidly and significantly during systemic inflammation. CRP is composed of five identical subunits that form a ring-like structure. The synthesis of canine CRP in hepatocytes is induced by inflammatory cytokines shortly after the inflammatory stimulus. cCRP is a valuable diagnostic marker for the detection of the acute phase response. Its concentration has been shown to increase rapidly in various disorders including viral and bacterial infections, sepsis and pyometra, as well as in surgical trauma.