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Von Willebrand Syndrome (Von Willebrand Blood Clotting Disorder) in Dogs

Occurrence: very rare
Location of illness: General/Whole body

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 06.11.2025

Von Willebrand SyndromeA syndrome is a group of symptoms that occur together and indicate a specific disease or condition. A syndrome can be caused by various factors and is often complex in its diagnosis and treatment. (vWS) is a genetically determined blood clotting disorder in dogs characterized by a deficiencyDeficiency means a lack or absence of a necessary substance required for normal bodily functions or health, such as vitamins, minerals, or hormones. or malfunction of the Von Willebrand factorThe von Willebrand factor is a protein in the blood that plays an essential role in blood coagulation. It helps platelets bind to the site of an injury and contributes to the formation of a blood clot. (vWF), a crucial proteinProteins are large molecules made up of amino acids and play an essential role in almost all biological processes. They are necessary for building body tissue, the function of the immune system, and as enzymes for metabolic reactions. for blood clotting.

BASICS/CAUSES:

The Von Willebrand factorThe von Willebrand factor is a protein in the blood that plays an essential role in blood coagulation. It helps platelets bind to the site of an injury and contributes to the formation of a blood clot. is an essential proteinProteins are large molecules made up of amino acids and play an essential role in almost all biological processes. They are necessary for building body tissue, the function of the immune system, and as enzymes for metabolic reactions. in blood plasmaBlood plasma is the liquid component of blood, in which blood cells, nutrients, hormones, and waste products are transported. It consists of about 90% water, as well as proteins, glucose, minerals, and other substances. that plays a central role in blood clotting. It helps bring plateletsPlatelets, also called thrombocytes, are cells in the blood that play a crucial role in blood coagulation. They help stop Bleeding by forming clots that seal injuries in blood vessels. to the site of a vascular injury and forms a bridge between the plateletsPlatelets, also called thrombocytes, are cells in the blood that play a crucial role in blood coagulation. They help stop Bleeding by forming clots that seal injuries in blood vessels. and the injured vessel wall. The vWF is also important for stabilizing blood clotting factor VIII, which is also necessary for clotting. A deficiencyDeficiency means a lack or absence of a necessary substance required for normal bodily functions or health, such as vitamins, minerals, or hormones. or malfunction of the vWF can therefore lead to inadequate hemostasisHemostasis is the process that leads to hemostasis and stops Bleeding. It involves the formation of a blood clot by platelets and blood coagulation by coagulation factors..

Von Willebrand SyndromeA syndrome is a group of symptoms that occur together and indicate a specific disease or condition. A syndrome can be caused by various factors and is often complex in its diagnosis and treatment. has genetic causes and is often an autosomal dominant hereditary disease, meaning that only one defective gene from one of the parents is sufficient to pass on the disease. However, there are also recessive forms of the disease. Certain dog breeds are particularly susceptible, including Dobermans, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Cocker Spaniels, and Shetland Sheepdogs, which indicates a genetic predispositionA predisposition is an innate inclination or susceptibility of an organism to certain diseases or conditions. In dogs and cats, there may be a genetic predisposition to certain conditions such as hip dysplasia or certain heart diseases. in these populations.

The molecular basis of the disease lies in mutations in the VWF gene, which either reduce the production of the proteinProteins are large molecules made up of amino acids and play an essential role in almost all biological processes. They are necessary for building body tissue, the function of the immune system, and as enzymes for metabolic reactions. or impair its function. The variability of the mutationA mutation is a permanent change in the DNA sequence (genetic material) of an organism. In dogs and cats, mutations can lead to genetic diseases or desirable changes in certain traits. types and their effects on the vWF leads to different severities of the disease, which can range from mild to severe.

The most important facts at a glance

Von Willebrand Syndrome (vWS) in dogs is a genetically determined blood clotting disorder that is inherited either autosomal dominant or autosomal recessive. Certain dog breeds such as Dobermans, Scottish Terriers, and Shetland Sheepdogs are particularly susceptible. Common symptoms include Mucosal hemorrhages, bloody stools, blood in the urine, and delayed blood clotting. DiagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. includes clinical examinations, special blood tests to measure the Von Willebrand factorThe von Willebrand factor is a protein in the blood that plays an essential role in blood coagulation. It helps platelets bind to the site of an injury and contributes to the formation of a blood clot. (vWF), and genetic analyses. A vWF level of less than 50% of the normal value is diagnostic for the syndromeA syndrome is a group of symptoms that occur together and indicate a specific disease or condition. A syndrome can be caused by various factors and is often complex in its diagnosis and treatment.. Treatment aims to control Bleeding, with no specific cure available. Desmopressin can help in acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. cases but is not always effective. Blood transfusions and frozen fresh plasmaPlasma is the liquid part of blood in which blood cells are suspended. It contains water, salts, proteins, and other substances and serves as a transport medium for nutrients, hormones, and waste products. can increase vWF levels. PreventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. focuses on responsible breeding practices to minimize the spread of the disease. Regular veterinary check-ups and avoidance of injury risks are crucial for affected dogs. Research focuses on the genetic basis of the disease, the improvement of diagnostic methods, and the development of new treatment strategies, including potential gene therapies. These efforts are intended not only to improve the quality of life of affected dogs but also to provide insights into similar diseases in humans.

Causes

Genetically determined, inherited as an autosomal dominant or autosomal recessive trait. Various breeds may be predisposed, including Dobermans, Scottish Terriers, and Shetland Sheepdogs.

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Common symptoms:

Rare symptoms:

The symptoms of Von Willebrand SyndromeA syndrome is a group of symptoms that occur together and indicate a specific disease or condition. A syndrome can be caused by various factors and is often complex in its diagnosis and treatment. vary depending on the severity of the disease and can range from mild to life-threatening Bleeding. Mild cases can be asymptomaticAsymptomatic means that there are no recognizable symptoms of a disease. An animal can have a disease or infection without showing visible signs, which can make diagnosis and treatment more difficult. and often go unnoticed until an injury or surgery occurs, where an abnormal Tendency to bleed becomes apparent.

Common symptoms include persistentPersistent means lasting or continuing for an extended period. In veterinary medicine, it can refer to chronic diseases or symptoms that do not subside. or excessive Bleeding after injuries or surgical procedures, spontaneous Bleeding from Mucosal hemorrhages such as nosebleeds or Bleeding gums, as well as blood in the urine or stool. In severe cases, internal Bleeding can occur, which manifests as weakness, Pallor, or Swelling.

Particularly noticeable is the prolonged Bleeding timeBleeding time is a clinical test to assess blood clotting ability. It measures the time it takes to stop bleeding from a small, standardized skin wound. Prolonged bleeding time in dogs and cats may indicate coagulation disorders. after minor injuries or after cutting the claws. These can be an indicationIndication refers to a valid reason or rationale for using a specific treatment, medication, or medical procedure. It is based on the diagnosis and the patient’s clinical condition. of a disturbed blood clotting and should be clarified by a veterinarian.

Diagnosis

The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of Von Willebrand SyndromeA syndrome is a group of symptoms that occur together and indicate a specific disease or condition. A syndrome can be caused by various factors and is often complex in its diagnosis and treatment. is made through a combination of clinical examinations, specific blood tests, and genetic analyses. A detailed preliminary report, which includes the symptoms and possible family historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits., can provide important clues.

A basic test is the measurement of Bleeding timeBleeding time is a clinical test to assess blood clotting ability. It measures the time it takes to stop bleeding from a small, standardized skin wound. Prolonged bleeding time in dogs and cats may indicate coagulation disorders., which is prolonged in affected dogs. Furthermore, the concentration of the Von Willebrand factorThe von Willebrand factor is a protein in the blood that plays an essential role in blood coagulation. It helps platelets bind to the site of an injury and contributes to the formation of a blood clot. in the blood is measured. A vWF level of less than 50% of the normal value is considered diagnostic for the syndromeA syndrome is a group of symptoms that occur together and indicate a specific disease or condition. A syndrome can be caused by various factors and is often complex in its diagnosis and treatment.. Additional tests, such as ristocetin cofactor activity, which checks the functionality of the vWF, can also be performed.

Genetic tests are particularly helpful in identifying carriers of the defective gene, especially in breeding lines known for the disease. These tests enable targeted breeding planning to minimize the spread of the disease.

Therapy

The treatment of Von Willebrand Syndrome aims to control and prevent Bleeding. There is no specific cure, but various therapeutic measures can support clotting and alleviate symptoms.

In acuteAcute refers to a condition that occurs suddenly and is usually of short duration. In a medical context, it describes symptoms or illnesses that can quickly become serious and require immediate attention. cases of Bleeding, treatment with desmopressin (DDAVP) can help stimulate the release of vWF from the body’s storage cells. However, this therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. is not effective in all dogs and depends on the type and severity of the disease.

Blood transfusions or the administration of frozen fresh plasmaPlasma is the liquid part of blood in which blood cells are suspended. It contains water, salts, proteins, and other substances and serves as a transport medium for nutrients, hormones, and waste products. may be necessary to increase vWF levels and improve clotting, especially before surgical procedures or in cases of severe Bleeding.

In the long term, it is important to minimize the risk of injury and avoid situations that could triggerA trigger is a stimulus that elicits a specific reaction or state. In veterinary medicine, this can refer to emotional responses, such as fear or aggression, or medical conditions, such as seizures in dogs and cats. Bleeding. Regular veterinary check-ups and close collaboration with the veterinarian are crucial to monitor and adjust the dog’s health status.

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosis for dogs with Von Willebrand SyndromeA syndrome is a group of symptoms that occur together and indicate a specific disease or condition. A syndrome can be caused by various factors and is often complex in its diagnosis and treatment. depends heavily on the severity of the disease and the type of treatment. Dogs with mild vWS can lead a normal life if they are well managed and Bleeding is avoided. However, regular veterinary monitoring is essential.

Dogs with more severe forms of the disease who experience frequent or severe Bleeding require more intensive medical care and possibly lifelong treatments to support blood clotting. In such cases, the quality of life may be impaired, and there is an increased risk of complications during surgeries or injuries.

The genetic nature of the disease makes it important that affected dogs are not used for breeding to prevent the spread of the defective gene in the populationIn veterinary medicine, the term population refers to a group of animals of a particular species living in a specific geographic area or environment..

Prevention

PreventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. of Von Willebrand SyndromeA syndrome is a group of symptoms that occur together and indicate a specific disease or condition. A syndrome can be caused by various factors and is often complex in its diagnosis and treatment. focuses primarily on responsible breeding practices. Through genetic tests, carriers of the defective gene can be identified, which makes it possible to exclude affected animals from breeding. This is particularly important in breeds that are predisposed to the disease.

For dogs that already suffer from vWS, it is crucial to minimize the risk of injury and avoid situations that could triggerA trigger is a stimulus that elicits a specific reaction or state. In veterinary medicine, this can refer to emotional responses, such as fear or aggression, or medical conditions, such as seizures in dogs and cats. Bleeding. This includes that dog owners are informed about the disease and take measures to avoid accidents, such as avoiding rough play or wearing a protective harness instead of a collar.

Regular veterinary check-ups and awareness of the symptoms and risks of Bleeding are crucial to be able to intervene early and maintain the health of the dog. Close collaboration with a veterinarian who has experience with vWS is also important to create an individual treatment and preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. plan.

Outlook on current research

Research on Von Willebrand SyndromeA syndrome is a group of symptoms that occur together and indicate a specific disease or condition. A syndrome can be caused by various factors and is often complex in its diagnosis and treatment. (VWS) in dogs focuses on the genetic basis of the disease, the improvement of diagnostic methods, and the development of new treatment strategies. VWS is a hereditary blood clotting disorder caused by a deficiencyDeficiency means a lack or absence of a necessary substance required for normal bodily functions or health, such as vitamins, minerals, or hormones. or malfunction of the Von Willebrand factorThe von Willebrand factor is a protein in the blood that plays an essential role in blood coagulation. It helps platelets bind to the site of an injury and contributes to the formation of a blood clot. (vWF), a protein that is essential for blood clotting. Genetic research has shown that VWS is caused by mutations in the gene responsible for the production of vWF. There are different types of the disease, which differ in their genetic basis and severity, which further complicates the research.

An important aspect of the research is the identification of the specific genetic mutations that cause VWS in different dog breeds. Through genetic screening and the analysis of DNADNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is the molecule that carries the genetic instructions for the development, function, and reproduction of all known living organisms and many viruses. It is located in the cells of an organism and contains the information for heredity. samples from affected dogs, scientists have been able to identify mutations that are associated with the disease. This has led to the development of genetic tests that allow breeders to test dogs for the risk of VWS and thus reduce the spread of the disease.

In addition to the genetic aspects, research also focuses on improving diagnostic methods. Traditionally, VWS is diagnosed by blood tests that measure the amount and function of vWF in the blood. Newer approaches include the development of more specific and sensitive tests that allow for a more accurate diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients.. These tests can help identify the disease at an earlier stage, which allows for early intervention and improves the quality of life of affected dogs.

In terms of treatment options, there is progress in the development of new therapeutic approaches. Currently, treatment mainly consists of administering medications that support blood clotting, as well as avoiding situations that could triggerA trigger is a stimulus that elicits a specific reaction or state. In veterinary medicine, this can refer to emotional responses, such as fear or aggression, or medical conditions, such as seizures in dogs and cats. Bleeding. Future treatment strategies could include gene therapies that aim to correct the underlying genetic defects and restore the normal production of vWF. However, such treatments are still in the experimental stage and are the subject of intensive research.

Research on VWS in dogs is of crucial importance, not only to improve the quality of life of affected animals but also to gain insights into similar diseases in humans. Since VWS is one of the most common hereditary blood clotting disorders, studying this disease in dogs provides valuable information that could also be transferable to humans. The interdisciplinary exchange between veterinarians, geneticists, and hematologists helps to advance research and develop potential treatment approaches for both dogs and humans.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is Von Willebrand SyndromeA syndrome is a group of symptoms that occur together and indicate a specific disease or condition. A syndrome can be caused by various factors and is often complex in its diagnosis and treatment. in dogs? Von Willebrand SyndromeA syndrome is a group of symptoms that occur together and indicate a specific disease or condition. A syndrome can be caused by various factors and is often complex in its diagnosis and treatment. (VWS) is a hereditary blood clotting disorder in dogs caused by a deficiency or malfunction of the Von Willebrand factorThe von Willebrand factor is a protein in the blood that plays an essential role in blood coagulation. It helps platelets bind to the site of an injury and contributes to the formation of a blood clot. (vWF). This factor is important for blood clotting, and a deficit can lead to excessive Bleeding.
Which dog breeds are most commonly affected? While VWS can occur in many dog breeds, certain breeds such as Dobermans, German Shepherds, and Shetland Sheepdogs are more commonly affected. However, it is important to note that the disease can occur in any breed.
What symptoms does a dog with VWS show? Dogs with VWS may exhibit symptoms such as spontaneous Bleeding from the nose, excessive Bleeding gums, prolonged Bleeding after injuries or surgeries, and blood in the urine. The symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the disease.
How is VWS diagnosed in dogs? The diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of VWS is usually made by blood tests that measure the amount and function of vWF in the blood. Genetic tests can also be performed to identify genetic mutations that are associated with the disease.
Is VWS curable in dogs? VWS is currently not curable, but the symptoms can be controlled with appropriate treatments and management strategies. These include the administration of medications to support blood clotting and avoiding situations that could triggerA trigger is a stimulus that elicits a specific reaction or state. In veterinary medicine, this can refer to emotional responses, such as fear or aggression, or medical conditions, such as seizures in dogs and cats. Bleeding.
Can dogs with VWS lead a normal life? With the right care and treatment, many dogs with VWS can lead a relatively normal and healthy life. It is important to perform regular veterinary check-ups and carefully monitor the dog’s health status.
How can I prevent my dog from getting VWS? Since VWS is a genetic disease, avoiding the breeding of affected animals is one of the most effective measures for preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring.. Genetic tests can help identify carriers of the disease and minimize the risk of inheritance.
What role does geneticsGenetics is the science of genes, heredity, and the variation of organisms. It studies how genetic information is passed from generation to generation and how it influences the development, appearance, and behavior of living things. play in VWS? VWS is caused by genetic mutations that impair the production or function of the vWF. The disease can be caused by one or more mutations, and the genetic background can influence the severity of the symptoms.
Are there any special precautions I should take with a dog with VWS? Yes, it is important to avoid injuries that could lead to Bleeding. Regular veterinary examinations and close collaboration with a veterinarian are also important to monitor the dog’s health status and adjust appropriate treatment strategies.
What are the current advances in research on VWS in dogs? Research has made progress in identifying the genetic causes of VWS and developing genetic tests that help identify affected dogs. New diagnostic methods and experimental treatment approaches, such as gene therapies, are also in development to improve the quality of life of affected dogs.