10/28/2025
🐶 Understanding BOAS: Why Some Frenchies, Pugs, English Bulldogs or Bostons Struggle to Breathe
If you’ve ever noticed your smush face love snoring, panting heavily, or struggling to catch their breath after a short walk — you’re not alone.
Flat-faced breeds like French Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boston Terriers are prone to Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) — a condition caused by their adorable (but compact) facial structure.
💨 What’s Happening Inside:
🔹 Narrow nostrils (stenotic nares) – harder to draw in air
🔹 Long soft palate – tissue that partially blocks the airway
🔹 Small windpipe – limits airflow to the lungs
🔹 Crowded nasal passages & large tongue – add even more pressure
🐾 Common Signs to Watch For:
• Loud snoring or heavy breathing (even at rest)
• Frequent panting or gagging after meals
• Struggling in heat or during play
• Fainting or collapsing
• Blue gums or tongue (low oxygen levels)
❤️ How You Can Help Your Frenchie:
✅ Keep them cool — avoid hot or humid walks
✅ Maintain a healthy weight
✅ Don’t overexert — keep play calm
✅ Schedule regular vet visits
✅ Ask your vet if surgical correction could help
We schedule our BOAS and Soft Palate Laser Resection procedures on Wednesdays, Get scheduled today! Your baby will thank you!! (229)834-8387
✨ With the right care, French Bulldogs, Pugs, English Bulldogs and Bostons with BOAS can live long, happy, and healthy lives — full of cuddles, naps, and snorts of joy.
📍At Valdosta Veterinary Associates, we’re here to help your flat-faced friends breathe easy.
Let’s spread awareness so every smush face can live their best life! 🐾💕
