Brachycephalic dogs are also known as flat-faced or short-nosed breeds. Examples include pugs, bulldogs, and Boston terriers. Despite being some of the most popular breeds around, brachycephalic dogs can be challenging to care for.
One of the most common health problems these dogs suffer from is brachycephalic syndrome, also referred to as brachycephalic airway obstructive syndrome (BAOS). The condition affects the upper respiratory system and is common to brachycephalic dogs.
Causes of Brachycephalic Syndrome
Brachycephalic dogs have shorter bones in the face and nose compared to other breeds of dog. This results in abnormalities of the upper airway including narrow nostrils, an elongated soft palate, and an abnormally narrow trachea (windpipe). Factors which contribute to brachycephalic syndrome include obesity, allergies, exercise, and warm or humid weather.
Symptoms of Brachycephalic Syndrome
Although all brachycephalic dogs will suffer from some form of brachycephalic syndrome, the severity of the condition can vary widely. The following are some of the most common symptoms seen in brachycephalic breeds.
- Breathing problems
- Difficulty exercising
- Heat intolerance
- Snorting
- Snoring
- Collapsing or fainting
- Difficulty eating
- Gastrointestinal issues
Always visit your veterinarian if your pet has difficulty breathing, or you are concerned about their overall health and quality of life.
Diagnosis of Brachycephalic Syndrome
Your veterinarian will ask you a series of questions to get a better idea of the onset and severity of your pet’s symptoms. They will then perform a thorough physical examination to check for clinical signs of brachycephalic syndrome.
Common diagnostic tests include a laryngeal examination and X-rays of the throat and chest. These tests will help reveal symptoms of brachycephalic syndrome and allow your veterinarian to reach a conclusive diagnosis.
Treatment of Brachycephalic Syndrome
Treatment of brachycephalic syndrome will depend on the severity of your dog’s symptoms. If symptoms are mild, it is often possible to manage the condition with a combination of diet, exercise, and avoidance of risk factors. Medications may also be prescribed to address underlying causes such as allergies.
If symptoms are more severe, your veterinarian may recommend oxygen supplementation and drug therapy to reduce inflammation and improve respiratory function. In extreme cases, surgery may be required to correct abnormalities of the upper airway
Prevention of Brachycephalic Syndrome
If you have a brachycephalic dog, there are measures you can take to reduce the risk of respiratory or other health problems.
Always feed a balanced diet and ensure your dog maintains a healthy weight. It’s also important to keep your pet indoors when the weather is hot and humid and avoid exposure to risk factors such as allergens.
We recommend exercising your dog lightly and using a harness rather than a collar to prevent restriction of the airway. Finally, schedule regular checkups with your veterinarian so your dog’s health can be continuously monitored.
