Brachycephalic (flat-faced) dog breeds have become very popular in recent years. Whilst many deem their flat-faced appearance to be a cute and endearing feature, it can have serious consequences for their health and welfare. Brachycephalic dogs are prone to a variety of health conditions. It is crucial that those taking care of them, have an awareness of the issues they might encounter.
What is a brachycephalic dog?
The word brachycephalic is taken from ancient Greek and literally means 'short-headed'. It is used to refer to dog breeds that have been bred to have short skulls and flat faces. Popular brachycephalic dog breeds include Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Pugs, Shih tzus, Lhasa Apsos, Pekingese, Sharpeis, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Boxer dogs.
What health problems do they have?
- Respiratory issues:
- Having a short skull is also associated with numerous structural abnormalities of the respiratory tract. This combination of abnormalities is referred to as brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS).
These abnormalities include:
- A soft palate that’s too long for their skull
- A narrow trachea (windpipe)
- Stenotic (pinched) nostrils
- Everted laryngeal saccules that further obstruct airflow
- Even in the mildest of cases, BOAS makes breathing more difficult.
Signs include:
- Noisy, laboured breathing
- Snoring, snorting
- Excessive panting
- Retching, gagging
- Difficulty exercising, tiring easily
- Collapse, syncope (fainting)
- Sleeping difficulties, sleep apnoea
Episodes of severe breathing difficulties can occur in dogs after exercise, exposure to hot weather, stress, or excitement. The dog might become cyanotic (develop blue-ish discolouration of gums and skin) and collapse or faint. In these instances, emergency veterinary intervention is needed.
Gastrointestinal issues:
It’s common for dogs with BOAS to regurgitate or vomit. This can occur secondary to their respiratory difficulties or be due to associated gastric problems. Many of these dogs have hiatal hernias and suffer from gastroesophageal reflux and ulceration. The breathing difficulties these dogs face, means they often swallow a lot of air whilst eating (this is called aerophagia). Many owners report their brachycephalic dog burps a lot or is very flatulent. If the air becomes trapped, it can cause tummy pain or even increase their risk of a life-threatening condition called gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV).
Tips for taking care of a brachycephalic dog
If you own a brachycephalic dog, it is important to be aware of the signs of Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS). Remember, the signs of BOAS show your dog is suffering some difficulty in breathing. Although common in many breeds of dog, this is not normal.
Taking some precautions can reduce the risk of affected dogs having an episode of severe breathing difficulty and collapse, and to keep them in better overall health:
- Exercise your dog within their limits. Avoid over-exercising them and provide opportunities for them to slow down or rest if needed.
- Use a harness for walks. Pressure placed on their neck by collars and leads can further restrict airflow.
- Ensure they are fed a good, well-balanced diet to help avoid obesity and prevent dental disease; brush and regularly inspect their teeth.
- Keep them fit not fat. Obesity makes breathing difficulties and skin issues worse.
- Use products designed to slow down their eating and reduce the amount of air they swallow (e.g., slow feeder bowls and puzzle feeders).
- Avoid stress or too much excitement as this can trigger a collapsing or fainting episode.
- Avoid heat. Be extra cautious of heatstroke in these dogs and take proactive measures to keep them cool.
- ALWAYS get any concerns about their breathing, checked out by a vet. Even mild respiratory infections can rapidly cause these dogs to struggle to breathe.
The information contained in this article is for general information only. Always get any concerns about a dog's health, checked out by a vet.