Species: Dog
Condition: Short Skull
Organ System: Respiratory
Brachycephalic breeds are dogs with a short muzzle and flat face. The anatomical feature is characteristic of specific breeds of dogs including boxers, pugs, Boston terriers and many more. It is this short-snout that gives them their trademark snort. However, the short muzzle indicates a compact skull with a compressed upper part of the respiratory system that often leads to problems that may range from minor to life-threatening ones. Brachycephalic dogs are prone to overheating that can lead to heatstroke, collapse, and even death. They are intolerant to extreme environmental temperatures because of their narrow respiratory passages. Their compressed respiratory passages make them prone to collapse of the trachea and breathing problems. Since their eyes are likely to protrude from their heads, they are also prone to eye injuries and dislocation. Teeth crowding is also a common problem in these breeds. This condition may lead to increased buildup of plaque and tartar. In extreme cases, brachycephalic breeds may have an elongated soft palate and stenotic nares that needs to be surgically corrected.
Breeds exposed to Short Skull – Research Reference
Basset Hound Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Otterhound Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Basset Hound – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Keeshond – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Samoyed – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Otterhound – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Samoyed Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Keeshond Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Disease Author
Dr Merliza Cabriles, Professor of Veterinary Medicine
To learn more about Short Skull or any other condition we invite you to search this website. Even better, pick up the phone and call your vet. Your vet knows your pet better than anyone else and is a fountain of information.
This information is accurate as at May 2014 and is subject to change without notice.
For Petmed Pet Health Insurance – pre-existing condition exclusion applies. Annual Benefit Limits and excess amounts vary based on pet health insurance plans.
