Some dogs bred for their “adorable” appearance may encounter increased health risks due to breeding practices. This is particularly evident in brachycephalic dog breeds. But what exactly are brachycephalic dogs? The term “brachycephalic” refers to dogs with flat faces and shortened muzzles. While these traits may enhance their appeal to some, they can significantly impact their breathing.
Brachycephalic dogs often suffer from brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), leading to difficulties in breathing, exercise intolerance, noisy breathing, snoring, panting, and heightened anesthesia risks. Dr. Jane Ladlow, a specialist in Small Animal Surgery, notes that the severity of these issues varies among breeds, with Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, and Pugs being among the most affected.
Bulldogs may experience entropion, skin conditions, heart defects, patella luxation, and tail fold infections. French Bulldogs are prone to spinal problems, fractures, ear and eye issues, while Pugs may suffer from spinal disorders, eye problems, and obesity. Although these three breeds bear the brunt of brachycephalic challenges, numerous other breeds exhibit varying degrees of such issues.
Let’s take a closer look at 23 brachycephalic dog breeds and the potential impact on their health:
1. English Bulldogs: These dogs face health concerns like hip dysplasia, skin infections, and respiratory difficulties. Their breeding is prohibited in Norway and the Netherlands, and some airlines do not allow them to fly due to their health issues.
2. French Bulldogs: Popular for their companionship, Frenchies experience chronic respiratory problems due to their brachycephalic features. Several airlines have banned them from flying to prevent in-flight fatalities.
3. Pugs: Known for their playfulness, Pugs are predisposed to respiratory issues and eye bulging. Their life expectancy is below average, and they are at higher risk of obesity compared to other breeds.
In recent years, there has been a movement to breed “retro pugs” with longer snouts and fewer wrinkles in some regions, aiming to mitigate health challenges associated with extreme brachycephalic traits.
1. Boston Terriers
Originating over 150 years ago from a bull and terrier cross bred with a bulldog-type dog, Boston Terriers are small, compact dogs known as the ‘American Gentleman’. These brachycephalic breeds have shortened muzzles and pushed-in faces, which can result in health issues like BOAS and respiratory problems. Additionally, Boston Terriers may experience curvature of the back, leading to leaning forward on their forelegs.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, with a wide skull, is prone to respiratory problems like BOAS and eye issues, despite having a less flat-faced appearance compared to other brachycephalic breeds. They can be sensitive to anesthesia, at risk of heatstroke, and may develop eye conditions such as corneal ulcers and dry eye.
3. Shih Tzus
Thought to be descendants of the Lhasa Apso and Pekingese, Shih Tzus are a brachycephalic breed with a short muzzle, leading to stenotic nares, a narrow windpipe, and a long soft palate, increasing the likelihood of BOAS. Although they are lap dogs and tend to have longer lifespans, studies suggest their life expectancy is average. Eye problems, especially as they age, are common in Shih Tzus due to their large, bulging eyes.
4. Boxers
Despite being larger in size compared to other listed breeds, Boxers are still considered brachycephalic dogs with short skulls and square muzzles, leading to respiratory issues and snoring. They are prone to eye conditions like entropion and indolent corneal ulcers, but are categorized as moderately brachycephalic rather than severely.
5. Brussels Griffons
The Brussels Griffon, a small breed from Belgium, has a short snout, flat face, underbite, and large eyes, which require regular vet checks. Their vulnerability to eye injuries is due to the lack of protection around their eyes. Common eye issues in this breed include glaucoma and cataracts, with nasal hyperkeratosis being a typical skin condition causing thickening of the nose skin.
6. Cane Corsos
Known for their predisposition to conditions like elbow and hip dysplasia, knee and retina problems, Cane Corsos are slightly brachycephalic. They are at risk of breathing difficulties due to their shorter muzzle and flat face, although not as severely as some other breeds mentioned.
Cane Corsos may suffer from brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) and are also more susceptible to heatstroke, which can make activities like walks and outdoor play more challenging.
Chow chows, originating from northern China, are a slightly brachycephalic breed with a square appearance, triangular ears, broad skull, and blunt muzzle. They are prone to respiratory issues, glaucoma, atopic dermatitis, and autoimmune diseases, especially in overweight, elderly, or anxious dogs.
The Dogue de Bordeaux, known as the Bordeaux Mastiff, is a large, muscular dog with the largest head among canines, giving them a majestic yet powerful look. Their short, large heads can lead to upper airway obstruction and breathing difficulties, along with hyperthermia and anesthesia complications.
Lhasa Apsos, historically serving in Tibetan palaces and monasteries, are long-lived but also brachycephalic with a flat face and short muzzle. The breed can vary in brachycephalic features, with health implications linked to the degree of facial pushing. They are predisposed to atopic dermatitis.
Pekingese dogs, favored by ancient Chinese royalty, have been selectively bred for a flat face, leading to brachycephalic health concerns such as breathing difficulties, eye issues, and skin conditions like dermatitis.
American Cocker Spaniels, a separate lineage from English Cocker Spaniels, may have brachycephalic features with a distinctive head shape that can contribute to breathing problems. However, not all American Cockers are brachycephalic; some have a medium head shape.
Tibetan Spaniels, characterized by their small, domed heads and short muzzles, are brachycephalic dogs with potential issues like underbites, soft palate obstruction, short nostrils, and cherry eye.
Chihuahuas, known for their small size and high energy, are brachycephalic dogs with compact heads and short muzzles, which can lead to respiratory difficulties and other health conditions.
The small Mexican dogs known as Chihuahuas are quite charismatic, displaying more personality than their diminutive size might suggest. While not as severely brachycephalic as some other breeds, Chihuahuas have been intentionally bred to have short, flat faces which can lead to respiratory issues such as BOAS. However, the extent of breathing difficulties can vary among individual Chihuahuas, with some experiencing more challenges than others, potentially making them more prone to heatstroke and finding exercise more strenuous.
Japanese Chins, despite their name, are a toy dog breed believed to have originated in China. They are known for their friendly and intelligent nature, often described as having ‘cat-like’ traits. This breed is moderately brachycephalic, with a flat face and short muzzle, making breathing difficult. Japanese Chins may exhibit snoring, snorting, and heavy breathing, and are also prone to health issues such as luxating patellas, cataracts, and heart murmurs.
Staffordshire Bull Terriers, commonly referred to as “Staffies,” are popular as family or companion dogs. While mildly brachycephalic with short snouts and wide faces, they may encounter respiratory challenges. Although not severely brachycephalic, Staffies may still face difficulties in hot weather and are predisposed to conditions like pneumonia through food aspiration and cataracts.
Affenpinschers, originating from Germany, are affectionate and protective companion dogs. Despite their squashed nose and flat face, they are only moderately brachycephalic, making them less susceptible to breathing issues compared to some other breeds. Snoring and panting are common signs of their brachycephalic anatomy.
Shar Peis, historically used as guard dogs in southern China, have a short nose relative to the size of their head, making strenuous exercise ill-advised for them. They are prone to entropion, a condition where eyelashes curl inward, potentially leading to eye irritation and blindness if left untreated. Surgical intervention can help manage this issue.
Yorkshire Terriers, small terriers with flat faces and short noses, fall into the brachycephalic category, albeit not as severely as some other dogs. Anesthesia can pose risks for Yorkies due to their small size, and they are susceptible to cataracts and dry eyes. Despite these health concerns, Yorkshire Terriers generally have a longer life expectancy.
Bullmastiffs, large dogs with varying muzzle lengths, may experience breathing difficulties depending on the length of their muzzle. Some bullmastiffs may require surgery to improve their airways for better breathing. Additionally, these dogs are prone to various health issues that should be carefully monitored.
Bullmastiffs, like many other dog breeds, are prone to various health conditions such as ear infections, progressive retinal atrophy, and entropion. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that your bullmastiff receives regular check-ups at the vet to maintain optimal health and well-being.
Moving on to English Toy Spaniels, also known as King Charles Spaniels (not to be confused with the Cavalier King Charles), these charming dogs belong to the brachycephalic breed category, characterized by their distinctive flat faces and short noses. It is believed that English Toy Spaniels were developed through crossbreeding spaniels with breeds such as the Japanese Chin, Pekingese, and pug.
Despite their adorable appearance, brachycephalic breeds like the English Toy Spaniel are more susceptible to health issues due to their narrow airways. This can make them prone to conditions like heat stroke and heightened sensitivity to anesthesia. Additionally, they may be at risk for health issues such as cleft palate, mitral valve disease, and eye problems like cataracts and keratitis.
If you are considering a dog breed with fewer health concerns, we have compiled a list of some of the healthiest dog breeds for you to explore. This information has been curated and edited by Georgia Guerin.
