Von Willebrand Disease II

General Information: Von Willebrand Disease II (vWDII) is a genetic bleeding disorder in dogs that leads to both decreased levels and dysfunctional activity of the von Willebrand factor (vWF), a crucial protein for normal blood clotting. Dogs affected by vWDII often exhibit moderate to severe symptoms, including easy bruising, frequent nosebleeds, spontaneous bleeding from the mouth, especially when juvenile teeth are lost, and prolonged bleeding after surgeries or injuries. The severity of the condition can vary, and in some cases, the bleeding may be significant enough to be fatal. Because the disorder's symptoms can sometimes go unnoticed until a dog undergoes surgery or experiences trauma, it is essential for veterinarians to be prepared with blood transfusions when treating known affected dogs. While many dogs with vWDII can live normal lifespans, they remain at heightened risk for life-threatening bleeding during any accident or surgical procedure.

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 the VWF gene is critical in identifying carriers of the von Willebrand Disease II (vWDII) mutation. This condition is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner, meaning a dog needs to inherit two copies of the mutated gene, one from each parent, to be affected. Carrier dogs, which have only one copy of the mutation, typically do not show disease symptoms but can pass the gene on to their offspring. When two carriers are bred, there is a 25% chance that each puppy will inherit the disease and a 50% chance that each will be a carrier. Accurate genetic testing is essential for responsible breeding practices to avoid mating two carriers, thereby reducing the risk of producing affected puppies. By ensuring that only non-carrier dogs are bred, the spread of this serious bleeding disorder can be minimized, contributing to healthier future generations.