CARING FOR YOUR BRACHYCEPHALIC (FLAT-FACED) DOG Brachycephalic dogs (affectionately called “smushed-face” dogs) are incredibly cute and have near universal appeal. Some of the most popular flat-faced breeds include: Affenpinscher Boston Terrier Boxer Brussels Griffon Bulldog Bullmastiff Dogue de Bordeaux English Mastiff English Toy Spaniel French Bulldog Japanese Chin Neapolitan Mastiff Pekingese Pug Shih Tzu Tibetan Spaniel It’s important to know that those flat, adorable faces can come with health considerations you need to be aware of—particularly in hot and humid weather. Difficulty breathing. Brachycephalic dogs can suffer breathing difficulty due to one or more of these physical issues: narrow nostrils, a large tongue, an elongated soft palate, a tiny trachea, and/or bulging tissue pockets in the back of the throat. Bulldogs top the list of brachycephalic dogs with respiratory problems, but most breeds are able to enjoy normal activities during comfortable weather. However, your dog can quickly find itself in respiratory difficulty due to emotional stress, exhaustion from intense exercise, or overheating related to physical activity or weather. As a safety measure, veterinarians and breeders recommend using a harness rather than a collar when walking your brachycephalic dog to avoid restricting its breathing in any way. Heat hazards. It’s crucial to keep your dog cool during hot, humid weather. Unlike humans, dogs can’t perspire in order to cool down. Their only mechanism for reducing body heat is panting. This makes breeds with breathing challenges much more susceptible to overheating and heatstroke. Every dog appreciates the stimulation and excitement furnished by the sights, sounds, and smells of the outdoors. When it’s too hot to walk or exercise your dog safely, consider providing a satisfying outdoor experience with an HPZ Pet Rover stroller www.petroverusa.com. The Pet Rover ensures quality outdoor time with your dog, while helping to keep him happy, healthy, and engaged. Eye health issues. Smushed face dogs have prominent, soulful eyes that melt an owner’s heart, As gorgeous as they are, your veterinarian will want to assess your puppy’s eyes for potential problems, including eyelashes that rub the eyeball causing irritation of the cornea, dry-eye caused by eyelids that don’t fully cover the eye, and tear staining (wet eyes) caused by constantly draining tear ducts. Mild conditions can be treated by medication (or daily cleaning in the case of tear stains). Your vet will let you know if more serious conditions require surgery to keep your dog’s eyes healthy. Skin folds. It’s important to regularly and thoroughly clean the skin folds around your dog’s nose and eyes. Any dirt or moisture caught in the folds can cause skin infections. Dental Health. Brachycephalic dogs often have problems with tooth crowding, as their tiny mouths still hold the normal canine complement of 42 teeth. Good home dental care, proper nutrition, and twice yearly dental checks will go a long way to keeping your pet healthy and pain free. They’re hard to resist! Flat faced dogs may require a little extra care and caution, but they are simply irresistible! If you are lucky enough to welcome one into your family, you’ll find yourself richly reward with an abundance of canine charm, gentle intelligence, and steadfast loyalty.
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