Companion Animals

Von Willebrand Disease in Dogs: Welfare and Management

Managing von Willebrand disease in dogs — the most common inherited bleeding disorder in canines.

Key Facts

Von Willebrand disease (vWD) is caused by deficiency or dysfunction of von Willebrand factor (vWF)
Type I vWD (mild-moderate) is most common; Type III (severe) occurs in Scottish Terriers and Shetland Sheepdogs
Affected dogs bleed excessively from minor wounds, during surgery, and from mucosal surfaces
Dobermanns have the highest prevalence of Type I vWD of any breed
DNA testing allows identification of carriers and affected dogs before breeding decisions

Welfare Considerations

Von Willebrand disease causes welfare impairment primarily through bleeding episodes and the anxiety associated with anticipated surgical risk. Mild Type I disease may only manifest during surgical procedures or after significant trauma, but Type III disease causes spontaneous haemorrhage from mucous membranes, joints, and internal organs that can be severe and life-threatening.

The welfare impact of bleeding episodes is significant — joint haemorrhage causes acute pain, lameness, and joint damage. Nasal bleeding (epistaxis) is frightening and exhausting. Gastrointestinal bleeding causes anaemia, weakness, and malaise. Even minor cuts require careful management and may need veterinary intervention.

Surgical welfare requires careful pre-operative planning. Desmopressin (DDAVP) administered before surgery temporarily elevates vWF levels, reducing surgical bleeding risk. Fresh frozen plasma or cryoprecipitate provide vWF for emergency management of severe bleeding. Surgical technique modifications reduce haemorrhage risk.

What You Can Do

Test Dobermanns and other predisposed breeds for vWD status before breeding
Inform all veterinarians (and emergency clinics) of your dog's vWD diagnosis before any procedure
Keep a bleeding first aid kit including sterile pads and the contact number for your emergency vet
Request desmopressin pre-treatment before any planned surgical procedure
Avoid aspirin, NSAIDs, and other drugs that impair platelet function in affected dogs