Haematology and immunology

von Willebrand disease

Routine

Also known as: vWD; Von Willebrand's disease; von willebrand's; von willebrands

Overview

The most common inherited bleeding disorder of dogs: a deficiency of von Willebrand factor, a protein needed for platelets to plug a damaged vessel. Doberman Pinscher is the classic breed (a large proportion of the breed carries it), with Scottish Terrier, Shetland Sheepdog, German Shepherd, and Standard Poodle also affected. Most dogs live normally and the disease only announces itself as unexpected, hard-to-stop bleeding during a routine procedure — which is exactly why it matters: a DNA or blood test BEFORE elective surgery in an at-risk breed is the entire point. There is no cure; management is avoiding unnecessary surgery, testing before any that is necessary, and telling every vet who treats the dog. Breeders of affected breeds should test and select against it (see the breeding ethics part).

What you would notice

Prolonged bleeding after surgery, neutering, or a lost tooth
Recurrent nosebleeds
Bleeding gums, or blood in urine or stool
Excessive bruising
Often no signs at all until the dog is injured or operated on

Non-prescriptive. This entry deliberately does NOT name specific drugs, doses, routes, or durations. Treatment decisions rest with a licensed veterinarian who has examined your dog and considered its history.

Draft — vet review pending. This entry has not yet been signed off by a registered veterinarian.