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Brachycephalic Respiratory Syndrome - Information on Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

What is Brachycephalic Respiratory Syndrome?

Brachycephalic Respiratory Syndrome in dogs can be described as a very serious condition, which leads to breathing problems in them.

Dogs that are suffering from Brachycephalic Respiratory Syndrome may often be seen snorting, gagging or suffering from labored breathing. In case this condition is very severe, it could also cause the dog to collapse. This syndrome can be seen in dogs that have a short skull, face and nose.

When this happens, the flow of air through the dog’s respiratory tract could be a lot slower than normal, which in turn has an effect on the larynx and the nose. Hence, the main cause of Brachycephalic Respiratory Syndrome is the presence of shortened bones, which are a result of a compressed face. On its own, this condition is not a particularly serious threat; however, it is also combined with the fact that there is an overlapping soft tissue that is not in proportion to the shortened bones.

The excess of this soft tissue causes a restriction in the airways. There are other names that can be used to describe Brachycephalic Respiratory Syndrome, such as Brachycephalic Syndrome or the Congenital Obstructive Upper Airway Disease. Like all other syndromes, this is more like a collection of different conditions; however, a dog may suffer from one.

Most people are under the wrong impression that Brachycephalic Respiratory Syndrome affects only smaller dogs. However, while this condition is more common is smaller breeds, it can be seen in larger dogs too, especially those that have their faces compressed. Hence, this condition can be seen in both male and female dogs that belong to breeds like boxers, Chinese pugs, the Llasa Apso, King Charles Spaniels, English bulldog, Boston terrier, The Pekingese, and the Shar Pei. Dogs that suffer from this usually show signs right from the time that they are born.

Treatment For Brachycephalic Respiratory Syndrome In Dogs

This condition should never be left untreated, as it could be fatal. Fortunately, it is possible to treat this problem, thereby making it easier for the dog to breathe properly. The sooner this condition is treated, the better it is and therefore, pet owners should visit a vet as soon as the symptoms first become evident. The best way to treat the condition is by making the dog undergo a surgical procedure. However, not all vets are capable of performing the surgery and therefore, pet owners may need to look for a qualified and experienced vet.

Submitted on December 16, 2011