Hemophilia A (German Shepherd Dog, Type 1)

General Information: Hemophilia A (German Shepherd Dog, Type 1) is a genetic bleeding disorder resulting from a deficiency in coagulation factor VIII, an essential protein required for normal blood clotting. Affected dogs typically exhibit mild to moderate signs of bleeding, such as easy bruising, frequent nosebleeds, bleeding from the mouth when losing juvenile teeth, and prolonged bleeding after surgery or trauma. They may also show signs of lameness or stiffness if bleeding occurs in the joints or muscles. In severe cases, bleeding can be life-threatening. Due to the variable severity of the disorder, some affected dogs may not be identified until surgery is performed or trauma occurs, revealing excessive bleeding. Veterinarians performing surgery on known affected dogs should have access to banked blood for transfusions. Despite the increased blood clotting times, most dogs with Hemophilia A can have a normal lifespan with proper management.

How to Read Your Dog's Test Results for this Genetic Variant:

Two Variants Detected: Dog Likely Affected

One Variant Detected: Dog Unlikely Affected

No Variants Detected: No Effect

Gene / Testing Information: Genetic testing for Hemophilia A (German Shepherd Dog, Type 1) involves screening for mutations in the F8 gene to determine carrier status. This disorder is inherited in an X-linked recessive manner, meaning female dogs must inherit two copies of the mutated gene (one from each parent) to develop the disease, while male dogs only need one copy from their mother to be affected. Consequently, male dogs are more commonly symptomatic. Each male pup born to a carrier female has a 50% chance of inheriting the disease. Genetic testing is crucial for responsible breeding practices, as symptoms may be mild in affected dogs, and female carriers typically do not show symptoms. To avoid producing affected puppies and eliminate the mutation from breeding lines, it is essential not to breed two known carriers. Dogs that are not carriers of the mutation do not pose a risk of producing affected offspring.