Pets

Brachycephalic animals

Some of the most popular breeds of pets are brachycephalic (flat-faced), yet many people are unaware of this. Find out which breeds are affected.

What does brachycephalic mean?

Brachycephaly refers to the shape of the skull. Brachycephalic animals have a short, wide skull resulting in a flattened face and shortened muzzle. This is often accompanied by protruding eyes and facial skin folds.

Brachycephalic breeds are at increased risk of numerous health problems and have a shortened lifespan due to the way they have been bred. However, their inability to breathe is the biggest concern.

Brachycephalic animals are at risk of Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS). This results in:

  • noisy breathing
  • snoring
  • increased breathing effort
  • exercise intolerance
  • increased risk of heatstroke
  • vomiting and regurgitation

Other serious health problems can occur. The severity of BOAS will affect individuals differently.

How many pets are affected?

  • One fifth of all dogs in the UK are brachycephalic, equaling around two million individuals.
  • The largest study assessing rabbit populations in the UK found that nearly 70% of all owned rabbits are brachycephalic.
  • The number of individual cats affected by brachycephaly is currently unknown.

Flat-faced animals include:

    • Affenpinscher
    • Boston terrier
    • boxer
    • Brussels griffon
    • bullmastiff
    • Cavalier King Charles spaniel
    • Chihuahua
    • chow chow
    • dogue de Bordeaux
    • English bulldog
    • French bulldog
    • Japanese chin
    • King Charles spaniel
    • Lhasa apso
    • mastiffs
    • Pekingese
    • pug
    • shih-tzu
    • Tibetan spaniel
    • Yorkshire terrier
    • Burmese
    • British shorthair
    • British longhair
    • exotic shorthair
    • Himalayan
    • Persian
    • Scottish fold
    • Angora varieties
    • blanc de hotot
    • Czech
    • dwarf varieties
    • Jersey wooly
    • lionhead
    • lop varieties
    • mini varieties
    • Polish
    • smoke pearl
    • Spanish giant valenciano
    • teddywidder

This isn't an exhaustive list. Any animal with a shortened nose, even crossbreeds, can be brachycephalic.

Buying a flat-faced pet

Before getting a brachycephalic pet, ensure you understand and are prepared for the long-term health requirements they have. Consider adopting instead of shopping, or choose a healthier, alternative breed.

Find out more