von Willebrand’s Disease in Dogs
Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and What Owners Need to Know

By Janice Jones

Former Veterinary Technician | Small Dog Place
Medically reviewed and updated: January 2026

von Willebrand’s disease (vWD) is an inherited bleeding disorder that affects some dogs. While the condition can sound alarming, many dogs with von Willebrand’s disease live normal, active lives and may never show symptoms.

In most cases, the condition only becomes apparent during surgery, dental procedures, injuries, or other situations that involve bleeding. This guide explains what von Willebrand’s disease is, how it’s diagnosed and managed, and what dog owners and breeders should know.

Important: This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace veterinary care. If your dog has unusual bleeding or is scheduled for surgery, consult your veterinarian.

What Is von Willebrand’s Disease?

von Willebrand’s disease is a genetic blood-clotting disorder. Dogs with this condition have low or abnormal levels of von Willebrand factor, a protein that helps platelets adhere to one another and form blood clots.

Without enough functional von Willebrand factor:

• Bleeding may last longer than normal
• Small injuries may bleed excessively
• Surgical procedures may carry a higher risk

The disease is inherited and can be passed on by either parent. Both male and female dogs can be affected.

Why Many Dogs Appear Normal

One of the most important things to understand is that many dogs with von Willebrand’s disease show no signs at all.

Often, owners only become aware of the condition when:

• A dog undergoes surgery or dental work
• A traumatic injury occurs
• A routine procedure leads to unexpected bleeding

This delayed discovery is common and does not mean the condition was missed or mismanaged.

Types of von Willebrand’s Disease in Dogs

There are three recognized types, which differ in severity.

Type I (Most Common)

• Reduced amount of von Willebrand factor
• Mild to moderate bleeding tendency
• Most affected dogs fall into this category
• Often inherited with incomplete dominance

Dogs with Type I frequently live normal lives and may never experience serious complications.

Type II (Rare)

• Abnormal von Willebrand factor
• Moderate to severe bleeding risk
• Less common than Type I

Type III (Most Severe and Rare)

• Very little or no von Willebrand factor
• The highest risk of spontaneous or severe bleeding
• Identified in only a few breeds
• Inherited in a recessive pattern

Dogs with Type III require close veterinary management.

Symptoms of von Willebrand Disease

The hallmark sign is abnormal or prolonged bleeding.

Possible symptoms include:

• Easy bruising
• Nosebleeds without injury
• Bleeding gums
• Excessive bleeding when baby teeth fall out
• Prolonged bleeding after surgery or injury
• Blood in urine or stool
• Pale gums (anemia)
• Some dogs may only show signs during medical or dental procedures.

How von Willebrand’s Disease Is Diagnosed

Diagnosis is often made later in life, after a pattern of unusual bleeding is observed.

Veterinarians may use:

• Blood tests to evaluate clotting ability
• Bleeding time tests to assess how quickly bleeding stops
• DNA testing (available for certain breeds)
• von Willebrand factor assays

No single test is perfect. Results are interpreted in the context of clinical history and physical findings.

Treatment and Management

There is no cure for von Willebrand’s disease, but most dogs—especially those with mild forms—do very well.

Management focuses on:

• Preventing unnecessary bleeding
• Planning carefully for surgical or dental procedures
• Monitoring for signs of blood loss

Before Surgery or Dental Work, Veterinarians may:

• Administer medications that improve clotting
• Use plasma or blood products if needed
• Adjust anesthesia and surgical technique

Severe Cases

Dogs with more significant bleeding tendencies may occasionally require transfusions or specialized care.

Living Safely With von Willebrand’s Disease

Owners can reduce risk by:

• Keeping the home environment safe
• Avoiding rough play with aggressive dogs
• Using caution during grooming (especially nail trimming)
• Monitoring gums, stool, and urine for bleeding
• Informing all veterinarians and groomers of the condition

With basic precautions, most dogs live happy, comfortable lives.

Breeding and Prevention

Because von Willebrand’s disease is inherited, responsible breeding is critical.

• Dogs that are affected or confirmed carriers should not be bred
• Breeders should use DNA testing when available
• Puppy buyers should ask breeders about health testing
• Reducing the spread of this condition depends on informed breeding practices.

Key Takeaways for Dog Owners

• von Willebrand’s disease is often mild and manageable
• Many dogs never show symptoms
• Diagnosis may occur later in life
• Veterinary planning prevents most complications
• Responsible breeding reduces future cases

If you suspect abnormal bleeding or are preparing for surgery, speak with your veterinarian.