Snoring, Struggling, and Summer Heat: How BOAS Affects Flat-Faced Dogs

Brachycephalic dogs, the adorable flat-faced breeds like French Bulldogs, Pugs, and Shih Tzus, have stolen the hearts of many Bridlington pet owners. 

But as the summer sun sets in, so do the risks. Hot weather, humidity, and even mild activity can become dangerous for dogs affected by BOAS (Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome).

At Aldgate Vets, we see more and more cases during summer where dogs are struggling to breathe, showing noisy breathing, or becoming dangerously overheated. 

If your dog’s breathing sounds like snoring, it could be more than just a cute quirk; it might be a sign of a serious condition that needs veterinary care.

Brachycephalic dogs are born with shorter skulls and flatter faces, which means:

• Narrowed nostrils (stenotic nares)
• Elongated soft palates
• Smaller windpipes
  

In cooler months, their breathing problems may be subtle. But in the summer heat of Bridlington, they’re suddenly panting harder, snoring more, and may even collapse from exhaustion. 

That’s because dogs regulate heat through panting, and BOAS dogs simply can’t move air fast enough to cool down.

The answer lies in their anatomy. The narrow airways, floppy soft palate, and blocked nostrils make it hard for air to move freely, causing:

• Snorting and noisy breathing
• Snoring while awake or asleep
• Gagging or retching
• Laboured breathing even during rest

This is often a warning sign.

If you own a flat-faced dog, they likely fall into the brachycephalic category. These include:

• French Bulldogs
• Pugs
• Shih Tzus
• Boxers
• Boston Terriers
• English Bulldogs

These breeds are charming, funny, and full of personality, which is why they’re so popular in East Yorkshire and all across the UK.

But with their cute appeal comes a responsibility to understand their health risks.

Look out for the following, especially in warm weather:

• Dog is struggling to breathe after light exercise
• Persistent dog snoring or noisy breathing
• Excessive panting, even while resting
• Vomiting or gagging during or after eating
• Collapsing during walks or overheating

These signs can worsen rapidly during heatwaves or humid days. If you notice any of these, it’s time to speak to our veterinary team.

We’re proud to offer BOAS assessments and BOAS surgery right here in Bridlington. 

Our experienced team can assess the severity of your dog’s clinical signs and advise if surgery would help.

BOAS surgery can include:

• Widening the nostrils
• Trimming the elongated soft palate
• Improving airflow to reduce effort, snoring, and overheating

We’ve seen many dogs go from breathless and lethargic to lively, happy pets who can enjoy seaside strolls again.

To keep your brachycephalic dog safe this summer:

• Avoid walking during peak heat (walk early morning or evening)
• Never leave them in hot cars or conservatories
• Keep them cool indoors with fans or air-con
• Don’t over-exercise them as even brief play can be risky
• Watch for signs of dog breathing sounds like snoring or rapid panting

Owning a BOAS breed means loving them and protecting them. 

Here’s how:

• Learn the signs of breathing distress
• Schedule regular vet checks for breathing issues
• Consider BOAS surgery if advised
• Keep your dog a healthy weight
• Use harnesses instead of collars
• Know their limits in hot weather
• Be proactive, not reactive

These breeds rely on you to keep them safe, especially when temperatures rise.

If you’re noticing that your dog’s snoring is worsening, or they’re struggling more with the heat, don’t wait. The earlier we assess them, the better we can support their breathing and wellbeing.

We’re here to help you and your brachycephalic dog enjoy a safer, healthier summer.

If you want to learn more about BOAS surgery, visit our dedicated webpage here, or get in touch to discuss this in more detail with our knowledgeable team.