Haemophilia A – Rhodesian Ridgeback

Haemophilia A, also called Factor VIII Deficiency, is the most common bleeding disorder in dogs. Caused by an X-linked recessive mutation to the gene F8, the disease strongly impairs the blood’s ability to clot, which can lead to severe symptoms such as spontaneous internal bleeding, or uncontrolled bleeding after injury or surgery. This specific variant of the disease occurs in the Rhodesian Ridgeback. Related variants are also found in the Irish Setter and Miniature Schnauzer, Boxer, Old English Sheepdog, and the German Shepherd.