What is von Willebrand’s disease?

Von Willebrand’s disease1 is the most commonly inherited bleeding disorder of both humans and canines. It is caused by a deficiency in the amount of a specific protein, von Willebrand factor2, needed to help platelets3 stick together and forms clots to seal broken blood vessels.

Which breeds are most commonly affected by vWD?

At least thirty different canine breeds are affected by some level of vWD but it is most prevalent in Doberman Pinschers. In a study conducted by Cornell University nearly 2,000 of 5,600 total Doberman Pinschers tested had low values of von Willebrand Factor proteins.4

Are there any risks of undiagnosed vWD?

Although rates of vWD are higher in Doberman Pinschers, many do not display symptoms and no special considerations need to be made in daily life. Common symptoms for those displaying are spontaneous hemorrhage from the nose, vagina, urinary bladder, or oral mucous membranes. Prolonged bleeding after trauma or surgery is a common clinical finding, and bruising or bleeding after a surgical sterilization procedure (spaying or neutering may be the first time any abnormality is noticed. It is also important to note that certain medications may decrease platelet function and could increase the risk of spontaneous bleeding. Not much specific research has been done on the effects of medication on canines but using data from human medicine a list of potentially hazardous medications can be extrapolated.

• Ampicillin/Amoxicillin

• Some antihistamines

• Some antacids

• Estrogens

• Heparin

• Nsaids including aspirin, meloxicam, carprofen, and deracoxib

• Penicillin

• Phenothiazine tranquilizers

• Sulfa-based antibiotics

• Theophylline

In humans with vWD, emotional stress appears to precipitate bleeding in some cases. The subjective nature of such a finding makes it difficult to know if there is a similar association in canines, although this remains a possibility. Owners of canines diagnosed with vWD should try to maintain a low stress lifestyle and should closely monitor for bruising or bleeding when stressful events occur.

Are there any treatments for vWD? Unfortunately, there are no treatments for vWD at this time. Do to the low probability of symptoms occurring at home, treatment is typically unnecessary. Special precautions may be necessary during or after surgical procedures, or serious injuries. In an emergency situation, transfusion of blood may be used to stabilize a bleeding patient.

If I own a Doberman Pinscher that has always been healthy, should I do something?

Since many Doberman Pinschers will never have bleeding problems, any recommendation for routine testing is debatable. However, identifying vWD in canines before a surgery is planned can be lifesaving. Additionaly, knowing that your canine is a carrier of vWD can be important if an injury occurs.

1 vWD

2 vWF

3 The blood cells used in clotting

4 “Canine von Willebrand Disease,” Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, January 7, 2022, https://www.vet.cornell.edu/animal-health-diagnostic-center/laboratories/comparative-coagulation/clinical-topics/canine-von-willebrand-disease.