VWD is a bleeding disorder often developed hereditarily. Veterinarian Ann F. Hubbs writes for the Golden Retriever Club of America, "Goldens can develop a tendency to bleed with resulting excessive bruising, bleeding from the gums, and other mucous membranes, or bleeding during surgery. Bleeding tendencies most often result from cancer, autoimmune diseases, liver failure, toxin exposure, or infectious diseases that affect the ability of the blood to clot. In other cases there is an inherited defect in the ability to clot blood." Without the ability to clot blood, VWD can be fatal. However, "many doctors are currently working with genetic testing to find a potential cure for the disorder," Dr. Sarno said.