Von Willebrand’s Disease (vWD) is a hereditary bleeding disorder that can affect dogs, as well as humans and some other animals. This disorder is characterized by a deficiency or dysfunction of von Willebrand factor (vWF), a protein that plays a crucial role in blood clotting. vWF helps platelets adhere to the blood vessel walls and also stabilizes clot formation.
Von Willebrand’s Disease is usually inherited as an autosomal recessive trait in dogs. This means that both parents must carry at least one copy of the defective gene for their offspring to develop the disease. Dogs that inherit two copies of the defective gene will be more severely affected.
Dogs with vWD may experience a range of bleeding symptoms,which can vary in severity. Common signs include nose bleeds, bleeding from the gums, prolonged bleeding after surgery or injury, and easy bruising. In severe cases, dogs may also have gastrointestinal bleeding or blood in their urine.
Certain breeds are more prone to Von Willebrand’s Disease, including Doberman Pinschers, German Shorthaired and Wirehaired Pointers, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, German Shepherds, Scottish Terriers, Shetland Sheepdogs, and some other breeds. However, it can occur in mixed-breed dogs as well.
To diagnose vWD in dogs, we perform blood tests to measure the level and function of von Willebrand factor. DNA tests are also available to identify carriers and affected dogs, which can be particularly useful in breeding programs to prevent the spread of the disease.
While there is no cure for vWD, affected dogs can be managed to reduce the risk of bleeding episodes. Treatment options may include transfusions of fresh or frozen plasma, medications to promote clotting, and strategies to minimize the risk of injury. Careful monitoring is essential to ensure the dog’s safety and well-being.
Owners of dogs with vWD should take precautions to prevent injuries that could lead to bleeding episodes. This includes avoiding activities that may pose a risk of trauma or injury and informing your veterinarian and groomers about the condition before any procedures.
Responsible breeding practices involve screening potential breeding dogs for vWD to avoid producing affected offspring. Dogs carrying one copy of the defective gene (carriers) can still be bred, but it’s important to ensure they are mated with dogs that do not carry the gene for vWD to reduce the risk of affected puppies.