Bleeding

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Bleeding may occur from a single or multiple sites.

Bleeding into the lung may result in coughing with no apparent bleeding.

In the absence of trauma, bleeding from multiple sites would suggest some problem with the blood clotting. Specific genetic defects are recognised in some breeds (eg Von Willibrands Disease in Dobermans and German Shepherd Dogs).

Malignancies of the bone marrow may cause a range of problems including clotting defects. Bone marrow suppression can also result from the use of certain drugs.

Warfarin based rat poisons (usually blue in colour) specifically target the clotting mechanism.

Bleeding from a single site may still be the result of a clotting defect, but may also reflect trauma or disease to that organ.

What your veterinarian will want to know

Have you noticed bleeding from a single or multiple sites?
What is the timescale of the problem?
If of particular breeds – are you aware of any problem in other dogs within the pedigree?
Are there other symptoms?
Is the dog being given any medication? If so what dose is given?
Is there any possible access to warfarin poison?

What your veterinarian may do

Investigation of bleeding from a single site will depend on the particular organ involved.
For bleeding from multiple sites, the clotting mechanism is very complex and so your veterinarian may decide to test a number of clotting functions to check where if any the defect may be. Further blood and bone marrow samples may also be necessary.