Health & Testing
Von Willebrand Disease in Dogs: Types, Testing, and Breeding Decisions
Von Willebrand Disease is a bleeding disorder caused by a deficiency of vWF protein. There are three types in dogs — here's what breeders and buyers need to know about each.
April 10, 2024 · 5 min read
What Is Von Willebrand Disease?
Von Willebrand Disease (vWD) is caused by a deficiency or dysfunction of Von Willebrand Factor (vWF) — a protein essential for platelet adhesion and normal blood clotting. Affected dogs may bleed excessively from minor cuts, during surgery, or internally. Severity varies dramatically by type and breed.
The Three Types of Canine vWD
- Type 1 vWD: Mild to moderate reduction in vWF quantity. Most common type. Dobermans, German Shepherds. Often manageable and not life-threatening.
- Type 2 vWD: Abnormal vWF quality (even if quantity is adequate). Affects German Wirehaired Pointers. Moderate severity.
- Type 3 vWD: Complete absence of vWF. Most severe. Affects Scottish Terriers, Shetland Sheepdogs, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers. Life-threatening bleeding possible.
DNA Testing and Interpretation
DNA tests for vWD are available for most common forms. Clear dogs cannot pass the mutation. Carriers are generally unaffected. Affected (homozygous) dogs are at risk for bleeding — severity depends on type. Breeding decisions should ensure that two carriers are not bred together for any of the three types. For Toy Poodles and Poodle crosses, vWD Type 1 testing is included in comprehensive DNA panels.