Brachycephalic obstruction airway syndrome (BOAS)

Over the past hundred years human beings have designed for themselves a huge number of different dog breeds. The conformation of some of these breeds has become more extreme and sadly many health problems have been introduced into the dog population as a consequence. The continual increased selection pressure for 'desirable' physical traits has resulted in many pets presenting with more severe manifestations of certain congenital conditions and at a much younger age. If you are considering buying, or already own, a dog with a flat face such as a Pug, Boston terrier, Pekingese or Bulldog then you need to be aware of the welfare issues surrounding brachycephalic obstruction airway syndrome.