Von Willebrand Disease III (Scottish Terrier Type)

General Information: Von Willebrand Disease III (vWDIII) in Scottish Terriers is a genetic bleeding disorder resulting in extremely low or undetectable levels of the von Willebrand factor (vWF), a crucial protein necessary for proper blood clotting. Affected dogs are prone to easy bruising, frequent nosebleeds, spontaneous mouth bleeding, especially when losing juvenile teeth, and prolonged bleeding after surgery or injury. The bleeding can be severe enough to pose life-threatening risks. Carriers of the vWDIII mutation, having only one copy of the gene, typically show lower levels of vWF but may not exhibit symptoms unless they experience surgery or trauma that triggers excessive bleeding. Due to the variability in the severity of the disorder, it may not be diagnosed until significant bleeding occurs. Veterinarians must have blood transfusion options readily available when treating affected or carrier dogs. Although many carrier dogs can live normal lives, they are still at an increased risk of severe bleeding during accidents or surgeries.

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 essential for identifying carriers of the von Willebrand Disease III (vWDIII) mutation in Scottish Terriers. This condition is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner, meaning a dog must inherit two copies of the mutated gene, one from each parent, to be affected. Carrier dogs, which possess only one copy of the mutation, generally do not show severe symptoms but can pass the gene mutation to their offspring. When two carriers are bred, each puppy has a 25% chance of being affected by vWDIII and a 50% chance of being a carrier. Accurate genetic testing is vital for responsible breeding to prevent mating two carriers and to reduce the risk of producing puppies with this severe bleeding disorder. By ensuring only non-carrier dogs are bred, breeders can help eliminate this genetic condition from Scottish Terrier lines, leading to healthier future generations.