Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)(BOAS)
Also known as: Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome · Brachyzephales Atemnotsyndrom · Brachyzephales Syndrom · BAS · Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome · …
Overview
What it is
Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) is a severe respiratory condition affecting short-muzzled dog breeds, where the physical shortening of the skull leaves insufficient space for the upper airways. This structural compression forces tissues like the soft palate and nasal passages into a restricted area, significantly obstructing the flow of oxygen to the lungs. Over time, the increased effort required to breathe puts chronic strain on the dog's respiratory and cardiovascular systems.
How it presents
Owners typically notice symptoms within the first year of life, including loud snoring, wheezing, extreme sensitivity to heat, and rapid tiring during exercise. In severe cases, dogs may experience acute breathing crises, blue-tinted gums from lack of oxygen, or fainting spells during physical exertion.
Treatment
While the underlying skull shape cannot be changed, surgical procedures to widen the nostrils and shorten the soft palate can significantly improve airflow. These corrective surgeries are typically one-time interventions, though some dogs may require ongoing management, with costs generally ranging from 1,500 to 6,000 EUR.
How it's tested
Hüftgelenksdysplasie-Auswertung (HD-Röntgen) nach FCI(HD-FCI)
Primary testRadiographRöntgenaufnahme der Hüftgelenke unter Sedation, ausgewertet nach FCI-Standard (A-E). Standardpflicht bei den meisten VDH-Zuchtvereinen.
Issuing body: FCI
Result scheme: HD-FCI
Respiratory Function Grading Scheme(RFG)
Primary testClinical examDas Respiratory Function Grading Scheme (RFG) ist eine klinische Untersuchung zur funktionellen Beurteilung der Atemwege vor und nach Belastung, speziell für brachyzephale Rassen.
Issuing body: vet
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Respiratory Function Grading Scheme(RFG Scheme)
Primary testClinical examDas Respiratory Function Grading Scheme (RFG) ist eine klinische Belastungsuntersuchung zur Beurteilung der Atemwege und Einstufung des Schweregrads von BOAS bei brachyzephalen Rassen.
Issuing body: vet
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Respiratory Function Grading Scheme(RFG-Scheme)
Primary testClinical examDas Respiratory Function Grading Scheme ist eine klinische Untersuchung zur Einstufung des Brachyzephalen Atemnotsyndroms (BOAS) mittels Belastungstest und Auskultation.
Issuing body: vet
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Respiratory Function Grading Scheme(RFGS)
Primary testClinical examEin klinischer Belastungstest (Respiratory Function Grading Scheme), bei dem die Atemgeräusche vor und nach einer leichten körperlichen Belastung abgehört werden, um den Schweregrad des BOAS einzustufen.
Issuing body: vet
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Affected breeds
20 of 20 breeds
Mandatory testBiewer TerrierMandated by Verband Deutscher Kleinhundezüchter e.V.
Mandatory testBoston Terrier
Mandatory testBrabant Griffon
Mandatory testBulldog
Mandatory testContinental Bulldog
Mandatory testJapanese Chin
Mandatory testKing Charles Spaniel
Mandatory testOld English Bulldog
Mandatory testPetit Brabançon
Mandatory testPrague RatterMandated by Verband Deutscher Kleinhundezüchter e.V.
RecommendedAffenpinscher
RecommendedAmerican Bully
RecommendedCavalier King Charles Spaniel
RecommendedFrench Bulldog
RecommendedLhasa Apso
RecommendedNorwich Terrier
RecommendedPekingese
RecommendedPug
RecommendedShar-Pei
RecommendedShih Tzu
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)?
Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) is a severe respiratory condition affecting short-muzzled dog breeds, where the physical shortening of the skull leaves insufficient space for the upper airways. This structural compression forces tissues like the soft palate and nasal passages into a restricted area, significantly obstructing the flow of oxygen to the lungs. Over time, the increased effort required to breathe puts chronic strain on the dog's respiratory and cardiovascular systems.
How is Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) tested?
Tests currently in our database: Hüftgelenksdysplasie-Auswertung (HD-Röntgen) nach FCI, Respiratory Function Grading Scheme, Respiratory Function Grading Scheme, Respiratory Function Grading Scheme, Respiratory Function Grading Scheme.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Biewer Terrier, Boston Terrier, Brabant Griffon, Bulldog, Continental Bulldog, Japanese Chin, King Charles Spaniel, Old English Bulldog.