Understanding Brachycephalic Dog Breeds: Noses and Associated Health Risks

Understanding Brachycephalic Dog Breeds: Noses and Associated Health Risks

Introduction

When it comes to our furry best friends, dogs come in all shapes and sizes, each with their unique characteristics and traits. We all know this. Different people have breed preferences and those can be for the physical attributes of the dog or personality traits. It’s important when thinking about getting a certain dog breed, or even if you already have a certain breed, to be aware of any specific health concerns so you can be an educated owner. 

You may be asking what is a brachycephalic dog. One of the fascinating aspects that differentiates various dog breeds is the shape of their noses. Some dogs sport elongated, pointy noses, while others have shorter, more compact ones. There is even a name for all these shapes as can be seen in the image. Here is a little medical terminology for you guys and look at how a brachycephalic dog skull is different than a traditional dog skull. 

Besides cosmetics are there any implications for different dog noses? The answer is YES!

In this blog post, we’ll delve into the distinct features of brachycephalic dog breeds, exploring the uniqueness of their noses and the potential health risks they may face.

Brachycephalic Breeds: A Closer Look

Brachycephalic dog breeds are characterized by their short-muzzled, flat-faced appearance. This distinct facial structure is a result of selective breeding over generations, and it’s responsible for giving these breeds their charmingly unique appearance. Though not a compressive list of brachycephalic dog breeds here are some commons ones you might recognize; Pekingese, Pug, English bulldog, Boston terrier, Boxer, Cavalier King Charles spaniel, English mastiff, Japanese Chin, Brussels Griffon, Shih Tzu, Chinese Shar-Peis, Lhasa apso, French bulldog, Affenpinscher, Neapolitan mastiff, and Bullmastiff.

The Nose Difference

The most noticeable feature of brachycephalic dogs is their nose. Unlike dogs with longer snouts, brachycephalic breeds have noses that are significantly compressed, resulting in their iconic “pushed-in” facial look. This facial structure might seem endearing, but it also comes with a set of challenges and health risks that owners of these breeds should be aware of.

Health Risks Associated with Brachycephalic Breeds

While some people find the appearance of brachycephalic dogs charming, their unique facial structure can lead to a range of health issues. It’s crucial for potential owners of these breeds to understand these risks before bringing a brachycephalic pup into their homes.

1. Breathing Difficulties: The shortened snout of brachycephalic breeds means they have limited space for air passages, leading to obstructed breathing. Conditions like Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) can cause severe respiratory distress, especially during physical activity or hot weather. There are multiple factors that go into BOAS. These dogs can have stenotic nares (1), think very small nose holes, and elongated soft palettes, which can close off the trachea. All these things can restrict airflow and make it difficult for these animals to breathe normally. This is why these creatures pant and make funny noises when they breathe. 

2. Heat Intolerance: Due to their compromised airways, brachycephalic dogs struggle to regulate their body temperature effectively. If a bulldog and an Australian shepherd were at the same park at the same time, the bulldog would be at a much higher risk of heat exhaustion. This makes them more susceptible to heatstroke, which can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly.

3. Dental Issues: The overcrowded mouth structure of brachycephalic breeds often leads to dental problems such as misaligned teeth and increased tartar buildup. I know a French bulldog who has an extra row of incisors. His mom jokes he has a shark jaw with so many teeth. These issues can result in pain, discomfort, and potential infection if not properly managed.

4. Eye Problems: Take a look at the skull image from earlier again. The prominent, bulging eyes of some brachycephalic breeds make them more prone to eye conditions like corneal ulcers, dry eye, and proptosis (the eye coming out from its socket). These problems can range from having to treat your pet with daily medications to requiring surgical fixes.

5. Gastrointestinal Troubles: Brachycephalic dogs might also experience digestive difficulties due to their unique skull structure. Conditions like flatulence and regurgitation are more common in these breeds. This ties back in with their breathing difficulties. Here is a quick anatomy lesson. Your GI organs (stomach, Small and Large Intestines, etc) live in the abdomen. The abdomen is divided from the chest in mammals by the diaphragm. Because these breeds have to exert so much effort to breathe sometimes this pressure can actually pull their stomachs into their chest! It’s called a hiatal hernia.(2)

6. Exercise Limitations: The compromised respiratory system of brachycephalic dogs makes it challenging for them to engage in rigorous physical activity. Owners need to be cautious and monitor their pets’ exertion levels to prevent overexertion and potential health issues.

7. Anesthesia Risk: This is a big one and something I would deal with on a regular basis in the vet hospital. Brachycephalic dogs can be more sensitive to anesthesia due to their respiratory issues. This makes routine veterinary procedures potentially riskier for these breeds. Some clinics even require owners to sign an acknowledgment of this risk as part of pre-op paperwork. This risk can mean your dog needs specialized drugs to ensure their safety both during and after the surgical procedure. These dogs are at higher risk for aspiration pneumonia post-op and can be more difficult to intubate for anesthetic procedures. Talk to your vet about the best way to mitigate these risks.

Caring for Brachycephalic Breeds

Despite the health risks associated with brachycephalic breeds, responsible pet ownership can significantly improve their quality of life. Here are some tips to consider if you’re considering bringing a brachycephalic dog into your home:

1. Regular Vet Check-ups: Routine visits to the veterinarian are crucial for monitoring and managing any potential health issues. Your vet can provide guidance on proper care, diet, and exercise routines that suit your dog’s unique needs. Make sure to take your vet’s advice. Having a gym membership and never using it is not helpful. Neither is having a veterinarian you never visit or listen to. 

2. Temperature Management: Be extra cautious during hot weather to prevent heatstroke. Please do not walk any dog, especially brachycephalics, during the hottest part of the day. Not only can they overheat, but imagine walking on hot pavement with no shoes. Dog paw pads can be easily injured and burned on hot surfaces. Keep your dog indoors during the hottest parts of the day and provide plenty of water and shade when outdoors.

3. Weight Management: Fat puppies are all too cute and a great dopamine stimulator but adult dogs being overweight is a serious medical concern. Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for preventing added strain on your dog’s respiratory system. Consult your vet to develop a balanced diet plan that suits your dog’s requirements. Do not overfeed and remember to count all the calories your pup might be intaking, meals, snacks, and treats too! 

4. Exercise Moderation: While exercise is important, avoid excessive physical exertion that could lead to breathing difficulties. Short, gentle walks are usually better for brachycephalic breeds than intense play sessions. These are not working dogs. In addition to this, these dogs should be wearing harnesses and not collars. A collar can put added pressure on their respiratory system. A harness helps to distribute pressure more evenly and keeps it off of the dog’s throat. Not to mention sometimes these guys have no neck and a collar can slip right over their heads. (For tips on some great harnesses, check out this post.)

5. Breeding Considerations: If you want to get veterinary professionals all riled up talk to them about irresponsible breeding. If you’re planning to breed brachycephalic dogs, it’s essential to prioritize the health and well-being of the animals. People obviously breed for looks This is how we got countless breeds to begin with. But looks can not be the only criteria when choosing a dog to breed. Is that animal healthy? Does it have any traits you don’t want to be passed on to the puppies such as stenotic nares? Breeding should always improve the breed and not just be a way to make a quick buck. Be aware that it is very common for brachycephalic breeds to have cesarian (c-sections) sections. Responsible breeding practices can help minimize the risk of passing on genetic health issues to future generations.

Conclusion

Every dog breed has its quirks and challenges. Brachycephalic dog breeds may have unique and charming appearances, but it’s crucial to be aware of the potential health risks associated with their distinctive facial structures. While these breeds can make wonderful companions, they require attentive and informed care to ensure their well-being. By understanding the specific needs of brachycephalic dogs and taking the necessary precautions, owners can provide a happy and healthy life for their furry friends. If you’re considering bringing a brachycephalic dog into your home, remember that proper care, regular vet visits, and informed decision-making are key to ensuring a fulfilling and joyful life for your beloved pet. If someone asks how you learned so much about these flat-faced friends, tell them a vet tech told you so! 

(1). Stenotic Nares. Melbourne Bulldog Clinic. Retrieved August 15, 2023, from https://melbournebulldogclinic.com.au/surgery/stenotic-nares/

2 https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/hernia-hiatal-in-dogs