Guide for Veterinarians on Canine Von Willebrand Disease
Canine Von Willebrand Disease (vWD) is a common inherited blood clotting disorder that affects several dog breeds, including Dobermanns, Miniature Schnauzers, Pembroke Welsh Corgis, King Shepherds, Shetland Sheepdogs, German Shepherd Dogs, Standard Poodles, Airedales, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Golden Retrievers, Corgis, Greyhounds, Schnauzers, German Short-Haired Pointers, German Wire-Haired Pointers, Scottish Terriers, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, and many others. This condition, which shares its name with the human variant, is caused by a deficiency in the von Willebrand factor (vWF), a protein crucial for blood clotting.
Type 1 vWD, the most common and mildest form, is characterized by a partial reduction in all proteins making up the vWF. Dobermanns are particularly prone to this type, although other breeds may also be affected. Symptoms of vWD in dogs can include bruising after surgery, slow healing after an injury, excessive bleeding when the puppy teeth are lost, bleeding during heats (seasons) or birth, spontaneous bleeding from the nose or mouth, bloody urine, bloody stool, unexplained bruising, spotty dog gums, uncontrollable bleeding during surgery or after injury, which may be fatal.
Diagnosing vWD in dogs can be done through various tests. The Buccal Mucosal Bleeding Time test helps confirm slow clotting in dogs suspected of having vWD. The von Willebrand factor assay measures the amount of vWF in a dog's blood and can help determine if they are likely to be symptomatic for the disease. DNA tests can also determine if a dog has vWD, is unaffected, or is a carrier.
While there is no cure for vWD, the risk of bleeding can be managed. Plasma transfusions may be used to help stop bleeding in dogs with vWD. However, long-term use of certain treatments, such as DDAVP, can cause side effects.
Before breeding, owners of affected breeds should consider DNA tests to determine whether either parent carries a vWD gene. This can help prevent the birth of affected puppies. If your dog has any of these symptoms and is listed in the susceptible breeds, it's sensible to talk to your vet.
It's important to note that Type 3 vWD is the most severe form, with dogs having low or no vWF at all. Type 2 vWD occurs when dogs have no large vWF proteins and have low levels of the smaller proteins, which can slow down clotting significantly.
Dogs with vWD should avoid rough play, and injuries should be treated rapidly. Given that Type 1 is the mildest and most common form, it's likely that vWD is prevalent in other breeds as well, but Dobermanns are specifically noted for this type.
One useful tool for pet owners is the Wisdom Panel Premium Dog DNA Kit, which tests for genetic health conditions, including vWD. By understanding this condition, pet owners can take steps to manage their dog's health and ensure a long, happy life together.
Veterinary care for Canine Von Willebrand Disease (vWD) includes various tests such as the Buccal Mucosal Bleeding Time test, von Willebrand factor assay, and DNA tests to diagnose, determine symptoms, and identify carriers in pet dogs. Puppies and pet dogs of susceptible breeds that exhibit symptoms like excessive bleeding, bruising, or spontaneous bleeding should be checked by a vet.
Medications like plasma transfusions can help manage bleeding risks in dogs with vWD, yet long-term use of certain treatments may lead to side effects. Before breeding, DNA tests for vWD can help prevent the birth of affected puppies among owners of susceptible breeds.
Pet owners can make use of science-driven tools like the Wisdom Panel Premium Dog DNA Kit, which provides insight into genetic health conditions like vWD, ensuring proper health and wellness for their pets. Proactively addressing vWD can contribute to a long, happy life together with our pets.
In addition to understanding vWD, pet owners should be aware of other medical-conditions and chronic diseases that may impact their pets' health and wellness. Sheltering pets from rough play and treating injuries promptly can also help protect them from complications.
While Type 1 vWD is the mildest form, Type 3 vWD is the most severe form, affecting dogs with low or no vWF at all. Type 2 vWD occurs when dogs have low levels of large vWF proteins, which can slow down clotting significantly. The prevalence of vWD might extend to other dog breeds, not just the ones listed.
Given that Dobermanns are specifically noted for Type 1 vWD, pet owners of this breed and other susceptible breeds should be vigilant about their pet's health and consult with their veterinarian regarding medication, care, and treatment options for Canine Von Willebrand Disease.
