Does it sometimes seem that short-snouted dogs can barely breathe? Well there’s a 50% chance you’re right. “Around one in 5 dogs registered with the Kennel Club is now a Pug, Frenchie or Bulldog – compared to one in 50 in 2005. While some of these dogs lead good lives, research suggests that around 50% have significant breathing issues and that very few can breathe as well as a dog with a normal muzzle.” says Jemima Harrison, the founder of CRUFFA (The Campaign for the Responsible Use of Flat-Faced Animals).

The “cute” snoring and falling asleep while sitting might be indications that your doggo is not OK – snoring is a clear sign of a breathing issue and your pup might actually be trying to keep the airways open by keeping the head up. If these problems sound close to home, your dog might have what’s called “stenotic nares” or “pinched nostrils”. This condition is very common in brachycephalic breeds (French bulldog, English bulldog, Pug, Boston terrier) and dogs that have excess skin (Shar Pei, Mastiff).

“But my dog is always happy”? Of course they’re happy, they are used to it because they don’t know any better. But owners whose dogs have undergone surgery can see the difference – a change of tongue color, as the dog is no longer deprived of oxygen, and overall playfulness. The doggies just seem happier!

How do we stop poor puppers from living their whole lives short of breath? Well the main thing is spreading awareness, as most people are unaware that their pet might not be up to standard. Also, do not support breeders that produce unhealthy pups.

More info: CRUFFA

Both of these dogs are adorable, but only one meets the “breathe standard”

Most people would be unaware that this cutie has “pinched nostrils” and thus, trouble breathing

Image credits: frenchiebutt.milo

Check your dog’s nose to make sure your pup doesn’t have severe breathing issues

If your dog was born with a “pinched nose”, it can still live a normal life with stenotic nares surgery

These pups can finally breathe after getting a “nose job”. Can you see the difference?

Image credits: Wikimedia Commons

Image credits: mountpleasantvetgroup

Image credits: clenthillsvets

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