vonWillebrand Disease (vWD) Type I A frightening disorder of blood clotting is the coagulopathy (disorder of coagulation) von Willebrand Disease. This is the most frequently seen disorder of blood clotting in canines and affected patients may bleed from mucosa of mouth (gums), nose (epistaxis), intestines, or bladder. The cause is a variable lack of production or failure in the function of a plasma protein (found in blood) called von Willebrand factor (vWF) which is essentail for the function of platelets. It is similar, although not the same, as Hemophilia (the difference is in the part of the clotting cascade that is deficient). The severity of bleeding varies in Standard Poodles, although they don't seem to typically be as severely affected as some other breeds (Scotties, Shelties, German shorthaired pointers, and Chesapeake retrievers have type II). This by no means suggests that Standard Poodles are not affected or at great risk. This will often be a problem when tails are docked or dewclaws removed. Later it can cause severe complications when the animal is spayed or neutered. Trauma or wounds become much more severe when bleeding can't be controlled. Bleeding in the mouth when chewing dry food or toys, or during retrieving work may be noticed. While not painful, this is still a serious disease and it can not be cured. Blood transfusions and the use of Desmopressin Acetate can help control specific outbreaks, but bleeding will be a problem throughout life. The only highlight of this disease is that it can be prevented! Genetic testing allows very accurate assessment of breeding animals BEFORE they are bred as to their status. Dogs are categorized as clear, carrier, or affected. A cheek swab (see, we don't even have to risk poking animals with a needle) sent to Vetgen will allow assessment of the patient's genetics. This is more accurate than vWF Assays which can have variable results based on different conditions. If all Standard Poodle breeders would peform genetic testing, and only breed healthy animals, this disease could be severely lessened if not eradicated. Don't fall in love with a dog affected by such a serious condition. Demand testing of the parents to ensure health of your puppy.