What Is Von Willebrand in Dogs?

Published A Few Days Ago
ADVERTISEMENT

Let’s take a look at the causes, symptoms and treatment of von Willebrand in dogs

Von Willebrand’s (vWD) is an inherited bleeding disorder, much like hemophilia in humans. The most common inherited bleeding disorder among dogs, Von Willebrand’s is passed down from parents to offspring. It appears in equal frequency in both male and female dogs. Von Willebrand in dogs occurs because of a deficiency of von Willebrand Factor (vWF). The vWF is responsible for blood clotting – it is a carrier protein for coagulation Factor VIII (needed for blood clotting).

There are three different types of von Willebrand disease. The mildest form and most common is Type 1 vWD, which is recessive or incompletely dominant. That means that either parent carries the gene, but not all offspring will be as affected by the disease. Dogs suffering from Type 1 vWD have reduced but measurable levels of Von Willebrand factor (1 to 60 percent). Type 2 vWD and Type3 vWD are the most severe and rare, and are recessive. That means the dog inherits the gene from both parents and will have zero levels of vWF. Dog breeds that have shown to be most susceptible to the disease are Doberman Pinschers, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Miniature Schnauzers, Pembroke Welsh Corgis, Shetland Sheepdogs, Basset Hounds, Scottish Terriers, Standard Poodles, and Manchester Terriers.

If your dog has a mild form of the disease, it could go undiagnosed for years. It may only come to light after your dog has an accident or gets into a fight with another dog.

Below are a few of the most frequent symptoms of von Willebrand disease:

    Although there is no cure for von Willebrand in dogs, there are a few options as to treating it. As an owner, you need to pay special attention to your dog to ensure that he doesn’t injure himself while playing or engaging in physical activity. You should always have a healthy supply of bandages, pressure wraps, sutures, or skin glue in case of an accident, and carry these with you at all times.

    In the event that your dog needs surgery, the vet may give your dog the drug DDAVP, which helps to increase von Willebrand factor for a short period of time. As well, your dog may need to receive a blood transfusion if he has a severe type of the disease.

    Your dog can live a healthy and happy life after being diagnosed with Von Willebrand. It will just take vigilance and management on your part to ensure your dog avoids risks that could put him in harm’s way.

    ADVERTISEMENT

    ADVERTISEMENT

    You May Like

    Recall Alert: Fromm Gold Pate Dog Food

    Fromm Family Foods has voluntarily recalled 3 of its canned dog foods due to possible elevated levels of vitamin D, as it can be toxic at high levels.
    Planet Dog Adds A New Crop Of Carrots To Its Line Of Produce Dog Toys

    Remember when your mom told you to stop playing with your veggies? That doesn''t apply to Planet Dog''s new Carrot from the Orbee-Tuff Produce dog toy line.
    Wetterhoun

    The energetic Wetterhoun is a hunting and retrieving breed that loves the water. The name of this gun dog breed comes from the Dutch term for ""water dog"".
    Product Review: Gen7 Traveler Portable Pet Bed

    Cats on the go need a comfy place to rest their weary paws. We tested the Gen7 Traveler Portable Pet Bed to see if it would pass the finicky feline test.
    Cat-Napping On The Rise In The United Kingdom

    Newly released figures show that cat thievery is alive and well in the UK, with a rise of 40 percent in the number of stolen cats reported.
    Beef Pupcake Dog Food Recipe

    In the introduction of my recipes, I usually write about what I like best about the dish I just made or about an ingredient that stands out. But this time, I…
    Adoptable Dog of the Week – Spots

    Our Adoptable Dog of the Week is Spots, a 2 years old spotted coat mutt from Santa Fe, New Mexico. He is neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped.
    Top 10 Labrador Retriever Themed Decor You Can’t Live Without

    You love your Labrador Retriever…in fact, you love all things Labrador Retriever! Here are the top 10 Labrador Retriever themed decor we’ve found for you to show much you love them!
    The P.E.T.S. Plan – Four Steps To Divorcing With Pets

    Divorce isn’t easy – especially when pets are involved. If both parties want guardianship of the dog, what options do you have? Debra Vey Voda-Ha…
    Purple Crowned Lorikeet

    Thanks to their small size and relatively quiet behavior, Purple Crowned Lorikeet is a great choice for an apartment pet.
    This Incredible Kickstarter Smart Collar Tracks Your Dog’s Health

    Wish your pooch could tell you where it hurts? Waggit, a collar that tracks your dog''s vitals, location, and activity, wants to make that dream a reality.
    Lionhead Rabbit

    The Lionhead rabbit has a wool mane circling around their head much like a lion''s mane, hence its name. They are energetic, affectionate and love to play.
    Rottle

    The playful Rottle combines the affectionate Rottweiler with the intelligent Poodle. An even-tempered dog that is affectionate with kids and loyal.
    Adoptable Dog of the Week-Ace

    Our Adoptable Dog of the Week is Ace, a 2 years old Catahoula Leopard Dog and American Pit Bull Terrier mix from Westampton, New Jersey.
    Parrotfish

    Parrotfish are a marine fish with over 90 distinct species. They are characterized by their parrot-like beaks that are made of tightly compressed teeth.