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

    Gen Y Dogma: 4 Rules For Having The “Big (Custody) Talk” With Your

    It’s not fun, but it’s got to be done. Christina Peden talks about having the “what happens to the dog if we break up talk” with your…
    Toxirn

    The confident little Toxirn brings the sassy but devoted nature of the Chihuahua together with the spirited, playful personality of the Cairn Terrier.
    How To Deal With Dog Fights In Your Multiple-Dog Home

    Break it up! Sibling rivalry between dogs is common and there’s bound to be disagreements. Here’s how to handle tense situations like a pro. Many…
    Petco ‘Bootique’ Slashing 30% Off Halloween Costumes, Toys, and Mo

    Dog Halloween costumes, Halloween themed toys, cat costumes, and other goodies are all up for sale via Petco this month in their cleverly named ''Bootique''.
    Well Balanced Pet Mineral Analysis Test Kit Review

    I find out if Oscar is getting the vitamins and minerals he needs to live a long, healthy life As a concerned pet parent, I want the best for Oscar, especial…
    Breton Horse

    The Breton Horse is a breed of draft horse from Brittany. These horses are talented and can be used for a variety of tasks.
    Study Finds Owning A Dog Is Beneficial To Your Heart

    Proof that dogs make your heart healthy and happy! Here’s one more reason why you should own a dog. The American Heart Association says that dogs may l…
    What’s Wrong With Feeding Your Cat Kibble?

    Is kibble enough for your kitty? To ensure that your cat is getting all the nutrition she needs, be sure to put the right ingredients in her dinner bowl.
    Top 10 Dog Father’s Day Gifts

    When a canine is your dad''s BF, a gift for the dog is really a gift for your dad. Here are our favorite picks that celebrate your dog-loving daddy-o.
    Eels

    Eels are one of the more fascinating species of fish in the aquarium trade. They are characterized by their long bodies and snake-like heads.
    Adoptable Dog of the Week- Rocki

    Our Adoptable Dog of the Week is Rocki, a 2 and a half years old mixed breed pooch from Shelburne, Vermont. She is spayed, vetted, and microchipped.
    What You Should Know Before Starting a Dog Boarding Business

    Let’s get down to business – starting a dog boarding businessSo, you are considering starting a dog boarding business? Perhaps you’ve learned a lot over the…
    Chow Chow

    The Chow Chow makes for a good domestic dog with a laid-back personality. What makes the Chow Chow such an interesting and unique breed?
    Adoptable Dog Of Week – Lisa

    Sugar and spice and everything nice – that’s what our Adoptable Dog of the Week is made from. Meet Lisa, an adult Terrier mix from Rochester, New…
    What is Syringomyelia in Dogs?

    An inherited disorder, syringomyelia in dogs affects the skull. A disease seen in smaller-breed dogs, here''s what you need to be on the lookout for.