A recent study published on February 18 in PLOS One highlights the significant breathing problems faced by many brachycephalic dog breeds, characterized by flattened faces. Researchers found that only 11 percent or fewer dogs in certain breeds can breathe without difficulty.
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Francesca Tomlinson, a veterinarian and researcher at the University of Cambridge, noted that the popularity of brachycephalic breeds like the French bulldog in the United Kingdom has raised awareness of their health issues, including brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). This condition results from a narrowed airway due to their shortened skulls, leading to noisy and labored breathing. Previous studies focused primarily on pugs and bulldogs, leaving a knowledge gap regarding other flat-faced breeds.
From September 2021 to April 2024, Tomlinson and her team examined nearly 900 dogs from 14 different brachycephalic breeds. They conducted standardized exercise tests to assess breathing performance and classified symptoms on a scale from 0 to 3. Notably, only 11 percent of Pekingese dogs achieved the highest grade of 0, indicating easy breathing, while about seven percent of pugs scored similarly.
The research identified flatness of the face, narrow nostrils, and relative obesity as significant factors contributing to airway obstructions. Dan O’Neill, an animal epidemiologist at the Royal Veterinary College in London, stated that the study confirms long-standing scientific understanding: breeding dogs with exaggerated features limits their ability to breathe and live healthily.
Tomlinson suggested that the findings could inform future efforts to breed away from extreme features, potentially improving the health of these breeds. She noted that increased awareness of respiratory issues among short-snouted breeds may have already influenced breeding choices.