Health risks for flat-faced dogs
In recent years, flat-faced (brachycephalic) animals have become increasingly popular as family pets. Unfortunately, many people are unaware of the health risks that cause various debilitating and distressing health issues for these breeds, and we want to change that.
As an owner of a flat-faced animal, it's important to monitor your pet closely and be on the lookout for issues that may require medical treatment. We know you'll agree that they deserve a long, happy and healthy life, and having the right information can help you give them just that.
How to keep your flat-faced dog healthy
Monitor their breathing
Flat-faced animals often experience distressing difficulties with their breathing. Check your dog for signs of breathing difficulties daily, especially during and after exercise. Speak to your vet for advice on managing any breathing issues.
Go steady with exercise
Exercise is a crucial part of your pet's life, and vital to keep them healthy. However, brachycephalic breeds are at risk of overheating or developing breathing problems if exercised too strenuously or in hot weather. A regular routine of steady exercise is the best way to keep your dog healthy and happy.
Use a harness for walking
Walk your dog on a harness, rather than a collar and lead, to avoid putting pressure on their neck and help them breathe more easily.
Avoid long walks in hot weather
Many flat-faced animals can struggle to breathe in hot weather, especially dogs, due to how they regulate their body temperature through panting. Keep them out of the sun on hot days, walk them in the early morning or late evening when it’s cooler, and watch out for heatstroke.
Keep their water bowls full
To keep your dog cool, make sure they always have access to lots of fresh water and try to keep them out of the sun on hot days.
Control their weight
Weight can put additional stress on your dog’s breathing. Make sure you monitor their weight and discuss any signs of obesity with your vet. They can help you ensure your pet gets all the nutrients they need while losing weight. Many vets have supportive weight clinics run by trained vet nurses, which are a great place to start. You can also make feeding time more fun by using toys that make your pet 'work' for their meal.
Keep an eye on their vision
Flat-faced animals are more prone to ulceration and eye trauma, so check your dog’s eyes at least once a day for unusual discharge, tears, redness or cloudiness, as well as behavioural changes such as rubbing their eyes with a paw. Seek advice from your vet as soon as you can if you have any concerns. Ulcers are painful and can progress quickly in brachycephalic breeds, even risking losing the eye. They’re not visible to the naked eye, so your vet will need to use a special dye to check for them.
Check their skin regularly
Due to skin folds and wrinkles, flat-faced animals are extremely prone to skin infections and chronic itching. Check in between the folds of skin on a daily basis for signs of infection such as an unusual odour, red/sore patches and discharge or pus. Your pet may also rub at the area, or rub it against the carpet. To help prevent issues, keep them clean and carefully dry between skin folds.
Take care of their teeth
Brachycephalic breeds are at greater risk of teeth overcrowding, which can cause a buildup of plaque and tartar, and other dental issues. Clean and monitor your dog’s teeth, and take them for regular dental checkups. Your vet or vet nurse can advise on appropriate teeth cleaning products and the best way to introduce these. Learn more on how to take care of your pet's teeth.
Seek professional advice
If you have any problems with or concerns about your pet, don't hesitate to get specialist advice from your vet. While doing your own research from reputable sources can help you care for your animal, many 'internet remedies' are ineffective and can even be dangerous. Learn more about common health issues and treatments for all flat-faced animals.
What to do before taking on a flat-faced dog
Understand and prepare to face these potential challenges, to ensure a happier and healthier life for your flat-faced pet:
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Research the breed
Learn about the specific health issues associated with the breed you're interested in.
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Put extra money aside
Flat-faced breeds can be prone to certain health conditions that may require extra veterinary care, so be prepared for potential medical or surgical expenses.
Adopt, don't shop
Consider adopting a flat-faced pet to support animals in need.
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Seek veterinary advice
For expert insight and guidance on caring for a flat-faced pet.
Help us protect future generations of flat-faced pets
Our #SaveOurBreath campaign aims to inform and educate the public about flat-faced animals. To make change happen, we need to collect as much information as possible about these breeds and their health and welfare issues. As a brachycephalic owner, you can help us by sharing your experience.