Canine Von Willebrand's disease is a condition similar to human haemophilia, in which the blood cannot clot properly and any injury can cause the dog to bleed profusely, and result in the dog bleeding to death without treatment. Even a minor injury can be fatal to a dog with haemophilia if not treated immediately.

Von Willebrand's Disease is an inherited disorder in which dogs are missing the specific element in the blood that aids the platelets in forming clots. Dogs with the disease will bleed profusely, even after a minor injury, and the blood will not clot properly. Affected dogs can develop regular nose bleeds, bleeding gums, vagina and penis and haemorrhaging under the skin as well as internal bleeding in the stomach and intestines.

Von Willebrand’s Disease is usually diagnosed through a blood test to measure the level of the specific element, known as Von Willebrand’s Factor, in the blood. The disease, like the human haemophilia, is incurable and the only effective treatment is through blood transfusions from healthy canines. Many affected dogs will also have hypothyroidism.

Some breeds of dog have a higher incidence than others including Doberman, Pinschers, Airedale Terriers, Bassett Hounds, Corgis, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, and Standard Poodles. Since the disease has a genetic component, dogs with Von Willebrand's should not be bred.

Pets with Von Willebrand’s Disease need to be monitored strictly by their owners to ensure they are not given medications that can interfere with blood clotting, such as aspirin and certain antihistamines unless the vet has given approval.