Brachycephalic Dogs: Everything You Need to Know

If you can’t handle the cuteness overload of dogs with ‘smushed’ faces and big eyes (like pugs and Frenchies), you’re not alone. Dogs like these have been selectively bred for such features. Some describe them as snub-nosed, short-muzzled, short-snouted, or flat faced, but the correct biological term for this is Brachycephalic – ‘brachy’ meaning shortened and ‘cephalic’ meaning head. Whether you’re for or against breeding such dogs, one fact remains – they need extra care due to their unique structural abnormalities. We’ll discuss important facts you need to know about Brachycephalic dogs and ways you can help them live a better life.

List of short-muzzled breeds:

There are 24 brachycephalic dogs recognised in the veterinary world, but here’s a list of some of the more common breeds.

Issues with Brachycephalic Dogs

Respiratory issues

Short-nosed dogs can’t breathe well and commonly suffer from Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS). This syndrome results in the following challenges:

eye issues

They suffer from Brachycepahlic Ocular Syndrome which incorporates a number of different eye issues. Bulging eyes with poor eyelid closure (resulting in dry eyes) and frequent eye injuries is characteristic of this syndrome.

Gastrointestinal problems

These issues include vomiting after meals, Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), gastritis, diarrhoea, flatulence and bloating from excessive air intake while eating.

Spinal issues

Brachy breeds are more likely to have spinal abnormalities which can lead to nerve damage, decreased range of motion, incontinence, and spinal pain.

Recurring ear and skin infections

The narrow structure of their ear canals promotes the ideal breeding ground for bacteria – one with insufficient airflow, too much moisture, and warmth. Likewise, the excess skin folds of this type of breed can harbour unfriendly bacteria.

Dental problems

Misalignment and crowding of teeth, due to smaller jaws, creates more areas for food to get trapped and for plaque to build up, causing bacterial imbalance which leads to infection and inflammation.

Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) Symptoms:

The following symptoms may indicate your precious pupper is suffering from BOAS. While seen as cute characteristics, snorting, snoring, etc. are not normal and are signs your dog’s health should be attended to.

How to help your brachy dog:

Weight control

It is extremely important to manage your dog’s weight because obesity increases the risk of BAOS.

Educate yourself

Learn as much about this health issue as possible so you can identify any causes for concern as early as possible. If you are looking to get a brachy breed for the first time, be sure to ask your vet many questions about this disorder so you know what to expect.

Slow walks

Because your dog can’t breathe well, exercise can be challenging. So, make sure you take slow walks and don’t overexert your dog during fetch or play. Note that exercise is still important but should be carefully monitored and executed.

Brush their teeth

Due to their squished skulls with crowded teeth, they can battle with plaque build-up. Stay on top of their brushing routine to prevent this.

Buy smaller dog pellets

If you feed your dog dry food, look out for packs that feature smaller, softer pellets like our Premium Recipe for Short-Muzzled Adult Dogs. Brachy breeds battle with chewing due to their overbites and misalignment of teeth.

Avoid air travel

Brachycephalic dogs should never travel via plane since changes in air quality, temperature, and pressure can severely affect them.

Monitor their eye health

Since their shallow eye-sockets and bulging eyes can increase the risk of eye injuries, it’s important you closely monitor their ocular health and that you bring up any changes that you notice with your vet.

Avoid breeding

Breeding brachy dogs is frowned upon in the veterinary community due to the numerous health issues and decreased life quality for these breeds. Further to decreased quality of life, giving birth can be extremely difficult for brachy moms because of her puppies’ wide skulls and her difficulty with breathing during labour. If you are set on breeding, then mixed breeding with a dog that does not suffer from brachycephaly is recommended.

Feed them nutritious food

Since exercise is difficult for these dogs, it’s important to find alternative ways to improve their health. Nutritious, balanced diets can help improve their quality of life by increasing their energy levels. Look for vet-approved food specifically made for these flat faced breeds.