Von Willebrand Disease Type III, Type III vWD

Affected dogs bruise easily and excessively bleed from small wounds. Affected puppies may bleed excessively from their mouth when teething.

This disease is typically diagnosed in puppies or young adults when they are spayed or neutered and have a problem with clotting. However, it can be diagnosed at any age.

vWD is diagnosed through genetic testing and blood testing at a laboratory. Veterinarians may also nick a dog’s lip with a sterile needle and time how long it takes for clotting to occur.

vWD cannot be treated, only managed. Preventing injuries is goal number one. If your dog requires surgery, your veterinarian should be warned that excessive bleeding may occur and blood products need to be on hand in case a transfusion is required.

Talk to your vet about your dog’s genetic result, as it could impact upcoming surgeries or procedures.

Be cautious with activities that could lead to injury, like rough play at dog parks or off-leash hikes.

To help stop minor bleeding, such as from a broken nail, keep basic first-aid supplies on hand, including bandaging material and styptic powder.

If your dog is injured, apply gentle pressure with gauze or a clean cloth to the wound. Keep your vet’s contact information handy in case the bleeding doesn’t stop within a few minutes.

This mutation was first identified in Shetland Sheepdogs.

Penetrance: vWD Type III is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner, meaning that affected dogs must have two copies of the mutation to show clinical signs.

Gene

VWF Exon 7

Inheritance type

recessive

Clinical category

Hematologic

Citations

1. Raymond et al 1990

• Shetland Sheepdog