Von Willebrand Disease II

Body function:

Heart & Blood

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Von Willebrand disease type II (vWD2) is an inherited bleeding disorder that commonly affects Chinese Crested dogs. Due to a lack of von Willebrand factor proteins (vWF), a dog’s blood can’t properly clot after physical trauma. There are three variations of vWD, with type II carrying a severe bleeding risk because of low concentrations or abnormal structures of vWF.

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List of affected breeds:

Genetic research has linked this gene and condition in the following breeds:

Chinese Crested, German Shorthaired Pointer, German Wirehaired Pointer

A white dog with a friendly expression is looking up at the camera with its mouth open and tongue out. The dog's fur is slightly ruffled.

What does this mean for a dog with this trait?

Although there’s no cure, severe bleeding episodes of Von Willebrand disease type II can be treated with blood and plasma transfusions. Bandages, wound glue, sutures, and dressings can be used to control minor bleeding. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and other drugs can affect blood clotting, so it’s best to avoid them.

Symptoms

While some dogs can be asymptomatic, other dogs with severe forms of vWD2 may bleed spontaneously or uncontrollably. This can occur after surgery, injuries, dewclaw removal, teething, or giving birth. Severe bruising can also occur.

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