Von Willebrand's disease in dogs

Written by Audrey Pavia Reviewed by Kristin Westafer, DVM

Overview

Nearly everyone has heard of hemophilia, a disease that causes excessive bleeding in humans. Dogs can have a canine version of hemophilia, which is called Von Willebrand's disease (VWd).

Von Willebrand's disease occurs when a dog is missing one of the factors necessary for normal clotting of the blood. These dogs can literally bleed to death during surgery, or if injured in a way that would not be life threatening to a dog without this condition.

Certain breeds are prone to Von Willebrand's disease because of a recessive gene that causes the condition. Doberman Pinschers, Shetland Sheepdogs, and Scottish Terriers are particularly inclined toward the disease. It can be seen in many other breeds as well as in mixed breeds.

Symptoms

Frequent nose bloods
Bleeding from the gums
Extensive bleeding when blood is drawn
Frequent bruising
Uncontrollable bleeding during surgery or after injury
Black, tarry stool
Bloody urine

Prevention

The only way to prevent Von Willebrand's disease is to have dogs genetically tested before breeding them, and by only breeding dogs that are shown to be clear of the disease. Dogs that do not show symptoms of Von Willebrand's disease but are identified as carriers of the gene through genetic testing should not be bred since they can pass the illness on to their offspring.

Treatment

Treatment for Von Willebrand's disease entails stopping the excessive flow of blood at the time an affected dog is injured or undergoes surgery. A transfusion of blood from a dog without the disease can help stop the bleeding temporarily because it provides the missing factor required to make the blood clot.

A drug called desmopressin acetate (DDAVP) is sometimes given to dogs with Von Willebrand's that are bleeding excessively. The drug can help the blood to clot, stopping its flow for several hours.

After treatment

Dogs that have been diagnosed with Von Willebrand's disease must be closely monitored to make certain they don't injure themselves. If your dog has been diagnosed with Von Willebrand's and needs surgery, inform your veterinarian of your dog's condition so he or she can be prepared for your dogs needs.