Short-nosed breeds like French Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, and English Bulldogs are loved for their adorable faces and sweet personalities. However, their shortened skulls often come with breathing difficulties that can affect their comfort, activity levels, and overall health. This condition is called Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome, or BOAS for short.
At Columbia Pike Animal Hospital and Emergency Center, we often see how much this condition impacts a dog’s daily life. BOAS limits airflow in the nose and throat, and many owners are surprised to learn that the snoring, snorting, and overheating they see at home are not normal for the breed.
What Is Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome?
BOAS is caused by structural abnormalities in the upper airway system. These issues make it difficult for affected dogs to pull in enough air, especially during exercise or warm weather. Over time, breathing becomes harder, inflammation increases, and many dogs start to struggle with even simple activities.
Common symptoms include:
• Loud snoring or snorting
• Wheezing or noisy breathing
• Vomiting or regurgitation
• Fatigue during walks
• Heat intolerance
• Collapse in severe cases
If your dog shows any of these signs, an evaluation can help determine the cause and whether BOAS surgery may help.
The Four Main Components of BOAS
BOAS is usually a combination of several airway abnormalities:
1. Stenotic Nares
The nostrils are too narrow, restricting airflow.
2. Elongated Soft Palate
The soft palate is too long and hangs into the airway, blocking airflow and vibrating during breathing.
3. Everted Laryngeal Saccules
Small pockets of tissue near the vocal cords are pulled inward as the dog struggles to breathe.
4. Enlarged Tonsils
The tonsils can swell and obstruct the airway further.
These issues occur together and make breathing difficult, especially during activity, excitement, or heat.
How BOAS Surgery Helps
For dogs with moderate to severe signs, BOAS surgery can be life-changing. The procedure may include:
• Widening the nostrils
• Trimming the elongated soft palate
• Removing everted laryngeal saccules
• Removing enlarged tonsils
These corrections open the airway and allow air to move more freely. Many owners notice improvement immediately, often hearing their dog breathe quietly for the first time.
Dr. Jacque Stahl performed BOAS surgery on her own French Bulldog and saw a remarkable difference. Before surgery her dog snored loudly, overheated easily, and tired quickly. After recovery she breathed comfortably, enjoyed long walks, and regained her energy and excitement for life.
Recovery and Aftercare
Most dogs go home the same day with medications to reduce inflammation, manage pain, and soothe the throat. Soft food and a little ice cream are often recommended during the first few days. Mild nasal swelling or discharge for one to two weeks is normal.
Many dogs begin breathing easier right away and continue to improve as healing progresses.
Does My Dog Need BOAS Surgery?
Snoring, panting, wheezing, and overheating are not normal for brachycephalic breeds. These signs mean your dog is working too hard to breathe. A simple consultation can help us evaluate your dog’s airway and determine whether BOAS surgery may improve their comfort and quality of life.
Our goal at Columbia Pike Animal Hospital and Emergency Center is to help every dog breathe easily, move comfortably, and enjoy a long and healthy life.
Schedule an Appointment
Columbia Pike Animal Hospital & Emergency Center
Annandale, VA
📍 4205 Evergreen Lane, Annandale, VA 22003
📞 (703) 256-8414
🌐 https://www.columbiapikeanimalh.com
We are here for your pet, day and night.