Understanding breathing difficulties in flat-faced dogs
If your French Bulldog, Pug, Bulldog, or Shih Tzu struggles with breathing, snores heavily, or tires quickly, these aren’t just quirky breed traits. They are warning signs that your dog’s airway may be obstructed, making every breath harder than it should be. This can also occur in dogs with hypoplastic trachea, which further compromises airflow.
This condition, called Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS), is more than an inconvenience. It can seriously affect your dog’s health, energy, and lifespan. Recognizing the clinical signs early can make the difference between ongoing discomfort and a happier, healthier quality of life.
This procedure carefully opens up narrow nostrils to significantly improve airflow and make breathing easier for your dog.
Excess soft palate tissue is trimmed precisely to reduce obstruction and allow air to pass freely through the throat.
Swollen tissue inside the airway is removed to clear the passage and support more comfortable, unrestricted breathing.
Why should flat-faced dogs see a vet for breathing issues?
Many pet owners assume noisy breathing, snoring, or snorting is normal for brachycephalic breeds. In reality, these sounds often signal that your dog’s airway is obstructed. If left untreated, BOAS can lead to:
Heat intolerance and quick exhaustion
Difficulty exercising or even short walks
Risk of fainting or collapsing in hot weather
Increased strain on the heart and lungs
Serious complications like aspiration pneumonia or laryngeal collapse
Early intervention is key. The sooner we address these breathing difficulties, the better your dog’s long-term health and comfort.
What causes BOAS in brachycephalic dogs?
Flat-faced dog breeds have unique anatomical features that make breathing harder:
Narrow nostrils (stenotic nares)
Elongated soft palate
Everted laryngeal saccules
Small trachea (windpipe)
These structures, along with excess tissue, create constant resistance to airflow. Over time, the extra effort your dog makes to breathe can worsen tissue changes, making the condition progressively more severe. Common breeds include French Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, and Shih Tzus.
How do we diagnose BOAS before surgery?
Some mild cases can be managed with lifestyle adjustments such as weight control, stress reduction, and switching from a collar to a harness. However, if your dog shows moderate to severe symptoms, surgery is usually the most effective treatment.
What are its benefits?
Many owners describe their dogs as “reborn” after surgery. They are able to run, play, and even enjoy sniffing the world more deeply than ever before. Here are more benefits:
Easier breathing and reduced snoring
Improved exercise tolerance and stamina
Better heat resistance in Dubai’s hot climate
Reduced risk of airway collapse or emergency tracheostomy
Longer, happier, and more comfortable life
Are there risks with the surgery?
Yes. Like any surgery, there are risks. Flat-faced dogs require special care with anesthesia, and post-operative swelling can temporarily affect breathing. Rarely, temporary airway support may be needed.
However, in the hands of our experienced surgical team, BOAS surgery is generally safe and highly effective, especially when performed early before complications set in.
