Haemophilia A (HEMA-1) – German Shepherd

Haemophilia A, also known as Factor VIII Deficiency, is the most prevalent bleeding disorder in dogs. This X-linked recessive condition is triggered by a mutation in the gene F8, which severely compromises the blood’s clotting ability. Dogs affected by Haemophilia A may exhibit symptoms like spontaneous internal bleeding or uncontrolled bleeding following injuries or surgical procedures. These manifestations are a result of the impaired clotting mechanism in the bloodstream. As an X-linked recessive disorder, it predominantly affects male dogs, while female dogs usually act as carriers.
This specific variant is found in the German Shepherd and is known as HEMA-1. A different variant is found in other breeds including the Irish Setter, Miniature Schnauzer, Boxer, Old English Sheepdog, and the Rhodesian Ridgeback.