Five FAQs about BOAS in brachycephalic dogs

Brachycephalic dog breeds like the French bulldog, English bulldog, and Shih Tzu are popular pets across the UK. These dogs are known for their flat, shortened faces, a physical trait termed brachycephaly, which is responsible for a range of breathing problems collectively called Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS). If you’re wondering how to buy a dog responsibly or where to buy a puppy, understanding BOAS is fundamental to being a compassionate and informed owner.

BOAS arises from specific anatomical abnormalities in these breeds, leading to laboured and noisy breathing, exercise intolerance, and other health challenges. While some dogs with moderately flat faces live healthy lives, those bred with exaggerated features often face significant respiratory difficulties.

1. What causes BOAS in dogs?

BOAS develops due to inherited physical traits that affect normal breathing. Selective breeding for flat faces has led to structural defects like narrowed nostrils (stenotic nares), elongated and thickened soft palate, abnormal windpipe shapes, and obstructive laryngeal saccules. These anomalies restrict airflow and make breathing difficult. Importantly, BOAS is hereditary, passing from parents to puppies if both or one carry these conformation faults.

2. What anatomical features contribute to BOAS?

Several physical features result in BOAS, including:

• An elongated, thickened soft palate that obstructs the airway.
• Narrowed or pinched nostrils that limit air intake.
• Deformities of the windpipe or trachea caused by shortened skull shape.
• Everted laryngeal saccules creating additional airway obstruction.

These issues vary in severity from dog to dog, depending on how exaggerated their brachycephalic features are.

3. Can you identify BOAS by looking at a dog?

Some signs are visible: very flat faces with noses that barely protrude, pinched nostrils, and a tongue that may protrude due to mouth size constraints. Breathing sounds are also cues—dogs with BOAS often breathe noisily, wheeze, or snore even at rest. However, deeper issues like soft palate problems or tracheal deformities cannot be confirmed by sight alone and require veterinary assessment.

4. Can mixed breed dogs have BOAS?

Yes, mixed breed dogs can have BOAS if they inherit brachycephalic traits from one or both parents. Only dogs with shortened, flat muzzles are affected. Crossbreeding a brachycephalic dog with a normal-muzzled dog usually results in less severe features and a lower risk of BOAS.

5. Should dogs with extreme BOAS be used for breeding?

Dogs with severe BOAS should not be bred. Currently, UK regulations do not restrict breeders from mating affected dogs, but doing so perpetuates suffering and health risks in puppies. Ethical breeders take measures to avoid producing litters from dogs with pronounced breathing difficulties. Prospective puppy buyers must educate themselves about BOAS and ask breeders critical questions to avoid supporting unhealthy breeding practices.

How to responsibly buy a puppy with concern for BOAS

When searching for a puppy, always choose reputable breeders who prioritise health and temperament over exaggerated looks. Ask about health screenings, the presence of BOAS in parents, and request to meet the puppy’s parents and see living conditions. Avoid buying from pet shops or unverified sellers where health history is unknown. If concerned about BOAS, consider less brachycephalic breeds or mixed breeds with controlled features.

Caring for a dog with BOAS

Dogs with BOAS often need lifestyle management including weight control, avoiding hot or humid environments, and moderate exercise. Surgery can improve airflow and quality of life, commonly including procedures to widen nostrils or shorten the soft palate. Regular vet checkups are essential to monitor the dog's condition and intervene when needed.

Recognising early signs of BOAS in puppies

Watch for noisy breathing, coughing, difficulty eating, exercise intolerance, and bluish gums or tongue indicating low oxygen levels. Early veterinary diagnosis allows for timely care decisions and improves outcomes. Remember, asking breeders the right questions about respiratory health helps you make an informed choice.

Understanding BOAS and ethical breeding is vital for anyone considering a brachycephalic dog. By choosing responsibly and caring attentively, you can give your puppy the best chance at a happy, healthy life.