All About Brachycephalic Dog Breeds
What are brachyphalic dog breeds?
The brachycephalic dogs are the dog breeds that have the smoosh face and the small, little nostrils.
What are some brachyphalic dog breeds?
Some dog breeds that are considered brachycephalic are French bulldogs, English bulldogs, and pugs.
What are the common health issues in brachycephalic dog breeds?
It's usually their breathing because of the short airway.
What is brachyphalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)?
These brachyphalic breeds can have something called brachyphalic obstructive airway syndrome. That is when they have anatomic abnormalities that make it harder to breathe, such as small, little narrowed nostrils, elongated soft palates, and inverted laryngeal saccules.
How can you tell if a dog has brachyphalic obstructive airway syndrome?
You can tell by if they have efforted breathing, excessive panting, or if their gums are a blue color.
What are the best ways to manage breathing issues in brachycephalic dogs?
You can get a surgery to make their nostrils a little bit bigger, reduce that elongated soft palate, and keep them in a nice cool environment. Make sure they're not having excessive exercise and keep them as calm as possible.
What precautions should I take when walking my brachycephalic dog in hot weather?
I would just avoid it completely so you don't have a respiratory crisis.
Is anesthesia safe for brachyphalic dogs?
Anesthesia is safe for brachyphalic dogs. There just have to be some precautions that your veterinarian and technicians need to take. Usually, it's leaving that endotracheal tube in a little bit longer so they don't have an airway obstruction.
What should I know about brachyphalic puppies and early care?
Watch out for signs of difficulty breathing. If they have really loud breathing or snoring, I would consult a veterinary surgeon. You can discuss if your dog is a candidate for the surgery to prevent them from having issues as they get older. Of course, wear a harness instead of a neck lead and stay out of the hot weather.
Are there any risks with traveling and flying with brachyphalic dogs?
There are risks with traveling and flying with these dogs. It's mainly just to avoid excitement and excessive panting so they don't have a respiratory crisis.
How can I improve the overall quality of life in my brachycephalic dog?
Just be aware that your dog may have issues breathing. Again, discuss with a veterinary surgeon or your primary veterinarian if your dog is a candidate for the surgery to make it easier to breathe. Also, make sure they're not having excessive panting and not running around in hot weather, just keeping them as calm as possible.
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