@drboazman explains that those adorable SMUSHED faced (Pugs, Bulldogs, Shih Tzus, & Boxers) all have something in common: they are BRACHYCEPHALIC BREEDS

These breeds possess the flat face, pushed-up, narrow nostrils, & large.

Unfortunately, because of this peculiar anatomy, brachycephalic dogs often have a hard time breathing & have respiratory abnormalities.

This condition is known as brachycephalic syndrome, & it is characterized by one or more of the following:

  • An elongated soft palate
  • Stenotic nares
  • Everted Laryngeal Saccules
  • A narrow trachea
  • Ever notice that Bulldogs do a lot of snorting? That’s probably due to an elongated soft palate.

The soft palate is the soft part at the back of the roof of the mouth that separates the nasal passages from the mouth. In brachcephalic breeds, the soft palate often extends into the throat & may partially block the trachea, or windpipe.

Lots of barking & panting causes the tissues to swell which can lead to breathing problems & respiratory distress. To help correct this problem the elongated soft palate can be surgically corrected.

Stenotic nares is the medical term referring to narrowing of the nostrils. This can limit the airflow, making breathing through the nose difficult. If the nostrils are narrow & cause significant breathing problems, corrective surgery will help patients breathe better.