Brachycephalic syndrome in dogs: causes, signs & care

Brachycephalic syndrome, also known as Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), affects dogs with shortened muzzles such as the Pug, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and various bulldog breeds. These breeds have an anatomically shortened face, leading to respiratory challenges.

BOAS is caused by several anatomical abnormalities including stenotic nares (narrowed nostrils), an elongated soft palate, everted laryngeal saccules, and a hypoplastic (underdeveloped) trachea. These factors combine to restrict airflow, especially during exercise, heat, stress, or panting, making normal breathing difficult. This can lead to carbon dioxide build-up, increasing heart and respiratory rates, which can be dangerous if untreated.

Which dog breeds are most at risk of brachycephalic syndrome?

Dogs with short, flat, and broad muzzles are predisposed to this condition. Some of the commonly affected breeds include:

• Affenpinscher
• American Cocker Spaniel
• Boston Terrier
• Boxer
• Brussels Griffon
• Bulldogs of all types
• Bullmastiff
• Cane Corso
• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
• Chow Chow
• Dogue de Bordeaux
• English Mastiff
• French Bulldog
• Japanese Chin
• King Charles Spaniel
• Neapolitan Mastiff
• Newfoundland
• Pekingese
• Presa Canario
• Pug
• Shar-Pei
• Shih Tzu
• Silky Terrier
• Tibetan Spaniel

Recognising the symptoms of brachycephalic syndrome

The hallmark of the syndrome is difficulty breathing. Signs to watch for include:

• Loud or laboured breathing, often with wheezing through the nostrils
• Open-mouth breathing even at rest
• Extended head and neck position to ease airflow
• Sleeping with the chin elevated or holding an object in the mouth to keep airways open
• Blue tinge to skin or lips during severe episodes (cyanosis)
• Sleep apnoea or interrupted breathing during sleep
• Low tolerance for heat or physical activity
• Frequent gagging or regurgitation of food

These symptoms often develop and worsen within the first year of life. Early recognition and veterinary care are key to managing the condition and preventing serious complications.

Preventing brachycephalic syndrome issues

While genetic factors cannot be changed, responsible owners can reduce the risk or severity of problems related to the syndrome by:

• Maintaining a healthy weight to avoid additional respiratory strain
• Providing cool, shaded environments during hot weather to minimise panting
• Offering frequent but gentle exercise avoiding overexertion
• Using a chest harness instead of a collar to prevent tracheal pressure

These steps help reduce breathing difficulties and improve overall comfort for brachycephalic dogs.

Treatment options for severe cases

Breeds with extremely short muzzles have a higher likelihood of severe BOAS and should not be bred to help prevent propagation of the condition. For affected dogs, veterinarians may recommend surgical procedures to ease airway obstruction, such as:

• Widening narrow nostrils to improve airflow
• Trimming excess soft palate tissue
• Removing everted laryngeal saccules

Early surgery, ideally performed while the dog is still young, can significantly improve quality of life. Regular veterinary check-ups help monitor symptoms and support timely intervention.

It’s important to understand that some respiratory traits may seem normal within certain breeds, but they are symptoms of a medical condition requiring attention. Compassionate care and responsible breeding practices are essential to safeguard these dogs’ health.