Every dog is unique in its own way. Every dog has something unique about them that no other dog has. Your pooch may have a particular trick they taught themselves, for example, while another dog may have the unusual habit of lying on the windowsill.
Or, some dogs have unique markings that look like a face or heart, while other dogs have features like a beard, bushy eyebrows, or a flat face.
But did you know that many dogs with features like flat faces and narrow nostrils often have trouble breathing? So, what are these flat-faced breeds?
What dogs have breathing problems? Well, in this article, we’ll list some of the breeds that are likely to
from breathing problems, as well as the reasons why and what precautions you should take if you own one of these Brachycephalic dogs.
Bulldogs
A medium-sized dog breed first bred for hunting and fighting, the Bulldog is an iconic dog. Bulldogs are heavy and muscular, with flat, wrinkly faces. With a unique, constantly sour expression, the Bulldog is a one-of-a-kind dog.
Bulldogs always have a jaw with an underbite and lips that hang down on either side, along with a pushed-in nose. The Bulldog is described as being brachycephalic due to its flat face. However, the Bulldog also has narrow nostrils called “stenotic nares”. These narrow nostrils limit how well the Bulldog can take in air.
Boston Terriers
Originally bred as a fighting dog, the surprisingly companionable Boston Terrier makes an affectionate and playful family dog. With a slightly arched neck and a broad chest, Boston Terriers are robust little dogs.
The Boston Terrier has large, pretty eyes that bulge slightly. They also have ears that naturally stand up. However, the Boston Terrier too is brachycephalic.
The breed has a pushed-in looking jaw and a flat nose. This means that Boston Terriers struggle with hot weather. So, though they’re usually on the go all day, take care to prevent your Boston Terrier from overdoing it during the daytime in the Summer months.
Pugs
The Pug is a clown of a dog. First created as a lap dog, the Pug loves people and takes its job very seriously to this day. This does mean Pugs are prone to suffering from separation anxiety, however. The breed can also be stubborn when it comes to training.
This playful, boisterous and affectionate breed is very square. Pugs always have a flat, black, wrinkly muzzle, with an undershot jaw. This flat muzzle means that the Pug does not cope well with extreme heat or cold. So, Pugs should spend most of their time indoors. This makes the Pug a good option for people who live in apartments.
Bichon Frisés
The Bichon Frisé is a playful and intelligent breed. Extremely people-oriented, Bichon Frisés hate being left alone all day. The breed has a thick, fluffy, non-shedding, Poodle-like coat and a good-natured personality.
An intelligent dog, the obedient Bichon loves to learn new tricks. If you don’t train them, your Bichon Frisé will teach themselves their own, less favorable tricks! This cheerful breed has droopy ears and a short muzzle. Their puffy coat keeps a Bichon Frise toasty whatever the season.
With their thick coat and short muzzle, many Bichon Frisés prefer to spend all of their time outdoors. If your Bichon Frisé is like this, why not invest in a sturdy kennel for them to sleep in? Many Bichon Frisés also struggle with the Summer months.
Owners often resort to a close shave during the height of the hotter season. You’ll need to only walk your Bichon Frisé during early morning or at night during the Summer, for their safety.
Pekingese
First bred as a companion dog for the imperial family of China, the Pekinese are royalty and they know it! Like the Chihuahua, the Pekingese tend to bond with just one or two people and be indifferent towards everyone else.
A dog that loves to bark, the Pekinese will need early and consistent training against this behavior. Unfortunately, the Pekingese can also be independent and stubborn. The breed has a short nose, as well as large, bulging eyes. Pekings also have a very wrinkly face that regularly needs wiped out.
Due to this short, flat face, Pekineses typically display breathing problems from birth. Some Pekes may just snore or snort, while others may actually faint.
Lhasa Apsos
Originally from Tibet, the Lhasa Apso was bred to be a watchdog. At home, the loyal Lhasa will try to protect you from danger. Though they can be fierce towards all perceived threats, the Lhasa Apso is never aggressive. They can be independent, however, and like to perch at their chosen watching station by themselves.
They have a marvellous, fluffy coat that requires daily brushing. Lhasas also need regular bathing. In combination with the Lhasa Apso’s flat face and short nose, this fluffy coat can make it difficult for the Lhasa Apso to handle heat and long walks. So, to keep your Lhasa Apso healthy and safe, try taking them for several short walks every day, rather than one long one.
Shih Tzus
“Shih Tzu” literally translates as “little lion”. But don’t worry, this little fluffball isn’t remotely fierce! Instead, the ancient Shih Tzu breed was invented as a companion breed. Shih Tzus are happy and affectionate dogs that take well to indoor living. These dogs have kept people company since the times of emperors.
When not snuggling up on people’s laps, the Shih Tzu excels at some of the less active canine sports, like rally and competitive obedience. Indeed, the Shih Tzu is one of the most obedient toy dog breeds. But Shih Tzus still need plenty of cuddles, so don’t ignore them.
With their undershot jaw, flat face, and thick, warm coat, the Shih Tzu struggles to regulate its body temperature. The breed also has a tendency to snore and wheeze. So, if you adopt a Shih Tzu, be sure to keep an eye on your thermostat and keep your Shih Tzu cool in warmer weather.
