Dec 20 2011
Brachycephalic Dogs – The Good & The Bad
The Brachycephalic Sisters
I adore Brachycephalic dogs. They are so sweet and cute, but unfortunately because they are so cute, they typically have more health problems due to their adorable “smooshed-in” faces.
A brachycephalic skull is relatively broad and short. Dog breeds such as the Pug are sometimes classified as “Extreme Brachycephalic”. Brachycephalic dogs are very sensitive to high temperatures, as they cannot cool themselves like other dogs; therefore, extra care and attention is needed.
Some issues with Brachycephalic Dogs:
ELONGATED SOFT PALATE – Since the heads of a Brachycephalic pup are so small and short, it is difficult to fit the soft tissues of the canine mouth and throat into the short face. As a result, the soft palate, which separates nasal passage from oral cavity, flaps loosely down into the throat creating sometimes alarming snorting sounds. Virtually all brachycephalics suffer from this but actual respiratory distress is rare. I have three brachycephalic dogs and they all do this trademark snorting sounds. It sounds uncomfortable for them, but typically never lasts long. Excess barking or panting may lead to swelling in the throat which can, in turn, lead to trouble. Sometimes, the soft palate needs to be surgically trimmed. Luckily, I have not had to have this surgery with any of my dogs.
STENOTIC NARES – This is basically a fancy name for teeny, tiny nostrils. The brachycephalic dogs begins by having very small nasal openings for breathing. If this is severe, surgical correction is neccessary. Our Vet suggested this for our French Bulldog, Bardot, and she had the surgery. I think it helped with her breathing and after the surgery, her nostrils actually looked bigger. Of course, this is not advised if you are going to “show” your dog, however, we have rescue dogs and that is not an issue. To me it is more important for the dog to be happy, than pretty.
HEAT STRESS - The Brachycephalic dog is an inefficient panter. A dog with a more “normal” face and throat is able to pass air quickly over the tongue through panting – which in turn cools the body down. We take extra care to never leave our pups out when it is even slightly warm! Honestly, in 70 – 80* temps the dogs get way too overheated.
WALKING- Since Brachycephalic dogs already have trouble breathing it is important to always walk them on a harness – a leash can shatter their trachea and harm the puppies severely. I cannot stress this enough – these dogs need a harness! Also, they truly cannot handle long walks.
Here is a list of Brachycephalic Dogs:
- Affenpinscher
- American Bulldog
- Boston Terrier
- Boxer
- Brussels Griffon
- Bulldog
- Bullmastiff
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Chihuahua
- Cane Corso
- Dogo Argentino
- Dogue de Bordeaux
- English Mastiff
- English Toy Spaniel
- French Bulldog
- Japanese Chin
- Lhasa Apso
- Neapolitan Mastiff
- Pekingese
- Presa Canario
- Pug
- Shih Tzu
- Tibetan Spaniel
- Valley Bulldog
Don’t let this deter you from owning and loving a Brachycephalic dog! Personally, I have three: a Pug, a French Bulldog, and a Shih Tzu. The most important thing is they are all INDOOR DOGS. These breeds of dogs can not live outside. They are too sensitive to the elements, and must be treated as an indoor family member. Believe me, with a lot of love, and care, they make the most wonderful children around!
I’d say you’re an expert on brachycephalic dogs – awesome post!!