Brachycephalic Dogs and Stenotic Nares: Breathing Issues Explained

Brachycephalic dogs such as the Pug puppies and French bulldog puppies are adored for their distinctive flat-faced appearance. However, this charming feature often causes health complications, including stenotic nares, a narrowing of the nostrils that severely affects their breathing.

Understanding stenotic nares is crucial for current and prospective owners of these breeds. This article explains how stenotic nares develop, which breeds are susceptible, symptoms to watch for, and available ways to manage or treat the condition responsibly.

How do stenotic nares arise in brachycephalic dogs?

The distinctive flat face of brachycephalic dogs is a result of selective breeding, which accentuated a natural genetic anomaly into the pronounced traits we see today. Stenotic nares result from congenital abnormalities in nasal cartilage development, making the nostrils abnormally narrow or prone to collapse during inhalation.

Excessive exaggeration of muzzle flatness, often called "ultra-typing," makes stenotic nares more likely. These excessively narrow nostrils impede airflow, forcing dogs to breathe harder, often through an open mouth, which is less efficient and can lead to further complications.

Responsible breeding practices discourage using dogs with this condition for breeding, to prevent perpetuating respiratory problems in future litters.

What breeds are most at risk for stenotic nares?

The condition primarily affects brachycephalic breeds, especially the French bulldog puppies, English bulldog puppies, Pug puppies, and English toy spaniel puppies. Although not all dogs in these breeds are affected, severe facial flattening raises the risk significantly.

How can owners identify stenotic nares?

Owners may notice signs from birth, but symptoms such as noisy breathing, snoring during sleep, and frequent panting become clearer as the dog grows. Affected dogs often struggle with exercise, show a low tolerance for heat, and may even faint from oxygen deprivation in severe cases.

Look closely at your dog's nostrils; those with stenotic nares have noticeably narrowed or almost closed nostrils. These symptoms warrant prompt veterinary assessment for accurate diagnosis and timely intervention.

Degrees of stenotic nares severity

• Mild stenosis: Slight narrowing, nostrils remain mostly open allowing better airflow.
• Moderate stenosis: Greater narrowing with limited nostril wing movement, noticeable during exercise or stress.
• Severe stenosis: Nearly closed nostrils, obliging the dog to breathe through its mouth continuously and prone to respiratory distress.

Why is stenotic nares a concern beyond breathing?

Stenotic nares contribute to a condition called Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), encompassing broader upper airway abnormalities. This syndrome can cause severe laboured breathing, overheating, digestive issues like reflux, and decreased quality of life. Serious cases often need surgical correction to improve airflow and reduce health risks.

What treatment options are available for stenotic nares?

Mild cases can often be managed by maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding overheating, and reducing stress. For moderate to severe stenotic nares, surgical widening of the nostrils (nostril plasty) is commonly recommended to enhance airflow and ease breathing. This surgery can dramatically improve the dog's comfort and longevity.

Early diagnosis and intervention are important for preventing complications and improving outcomes.

Responsible ownership and breeding considerations

Understanding the hereditary nature of stenotic nares is vital. Dogs with significant nostril narrowing should not be bred to avoid passing on this health issue. Prospective owners should seek reputable breeders who prioritise health and breed standards that minimise the risks of BOAS and related conditions.

By making informed choices and supporting ethical breeding practices, owners can help improve the welfare and future of brachycephalic dogs.

Frequently asked question: Why does my brachycephalic dog snore?

Quick Answer: Snoring in brachycephalic dogs is often caused by airway obstruction due to stenotic nares and other anatomical abnormalities, restricting normal airflow during breathing.

The flat facial structure and narrowed nostrils can make nasal breathing difficult, causing the dog to breathe noisily, especially during sleep. This snoring is a common symptom of breathing difficulty but should prompt evaluation by a vet to ensure there are no severe respiratory issues that need treatment.

Owners can help reduce snoring by managing their dog's weight, avoiding overheating, and seeking veterinary advice if snoring worsens or is accompanied by gagging, coughing, or exercise intolerance.