Source: Science News
A new study published February 18 in PLOS One finds that some flat-faced, or brachycephalic, dog breeds face significantly higher risks of breathing problems due to their shortened skull shapes. Researchers examined nearly 900 dogs across 14 breeds in the United Kingdom, using exercise tests and a 0–3 grading scale to assess symptoms of brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), a condition that causes narrowed airways and labored breathing.
While breeds such as boxers and Staffordshire bull terriers showed relatively low risk, others—including Pekingese, Japanese chin, pugs and bulldogs—had high rates of obstruction. Only 11 percent of Pekingese and about 7 percent of pugs showed no breathing issues. Key risk factors included extreme facial flatness, narrow nostrils and obesity. Researchers say the findings quantify the health costs of breeding exaggerated features and could guide future breeding practices toward healthier standards and improved canine welfare.
Read the full story HERE: https://www.sciencenews.org/article/dog-breed-high-risk-breathing-problems