Does Your Bulldog Sound Like a Snoring Freight Train? Understanding Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome

We love our squishy-faced dogs. Pugs, Frenchies, Bulldogs, Shih Tzus, and Boston Terriers have become household favorites thanks to their adorable looks and lovable personalities. But those same signature features—short noses, wide skulls, and compact faces—can also lead to serious breathing problems.

At PetMed of Key West Veterinary Clinic in Dubuque, we frequently evaluate and treat a condition called brachycephalic airway syndrome. If your dog snores when awake, struggles to exercise, or pants just walking across the room, this is for you.

What Is Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome?

Brachycephalic airway syndrome is a combination of structural abnormalities that affect the upper airway, making it harder for dogs to breathe.

The three most common components include:

Stenotic Nares – Nostrils that are too narrow, making it hard to draw in air
Elongated Soft Palate – The soft tissue in the back of the mouth extends too far, partially blocking the airway
Everted Laryngeal Saccules – Tissue inside the larynx gets pulled into the airway from constant pressure and effort to breathe

Over time, this condition leads to chronic inflammation, scarring, and in severe cases, collapse of the airway.

Breeds Most Commonly Affected

This condition is seen in brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds, including:

French Bulldogs
English Bulldogs
Pugs
Boston Terriers
Shih Tzus
Boxers
Pekinese
Lhasa Apsos

And yes—mixed breeds with flat faces can be affected too!

Symptoms of Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome

Loud snoring—even when awake
Labored or noisy breathing
Panting after minimal activity
Heat intolerance
Gagging or retching
Difficulty sleeping or sleeping in odd positions
Collapse during exercise or excitement
Blue gums or fainting in severe cases

These signs often worsen with age, weight gain, or hot weather.

What Is the Surgery?

Surgery typically addresses all three problem areas:

Widening the nostrils (nares) to improve airflow
Trimming the elongated soft palate so it no longer blocks the throat
Removing everted saccules if present to open the larynx

The procedure is done under general anesthesia and tailored to your pet’s specific needs. Most dogs go home the same day or next morning, and recovery usually takes 10–14 days with rest and a soft food diet.

Why Timing Matters: Sooner Is Better

We strongly recommend surgery during your dog’s spay or neuter, before long-term damage occurs. Why?

You’re already doing anesthesia once—combine procedures to reduce risk and cost
Less inflammation, scarring, and tissue damage in younger dogs
Easier, faster recovery
Helps prevent airway collapse, chronic inflammation, and surgical complications later
Older, obese dogs have higher anesthetic risk and slower recovery

Waiting often means a more complicated surgery with more swelling, bleeding, and long-term effects—not to mention a much more stressful experience for your pet.

Obesity Makes It Worse

Extra body weight = extra pressure on the chest and airway. Overweight brachycephalic dogs have a much higher risk of airway crisis, heatstroke, and anesthetic complications. Keeping your pet lean is one of the most important things you can do for their breathing and long-term health.

Help Your Dog Breathe Easier

Brachycephalic dogs are charming, cuddly, and full of personality—but they shouldn’t have to fight for every breath. If your dog snores, pants constantly, or tires quickly, let’s talk about whether airway surgery is the right choice—and the right time—for your dog. Call PetMed of Key West Veterinary Clinic in Dubuque today to schedule a consultation. We’ll help your pet breathe easier, live more comfortably, and thrive—one healthy breath at a time.