Overview
- Using a standardized exercise-based respiratory grading, researchers found signs of BOAS in 12 of 14 additional brachycephalic breeds assessed across 898 dogs.
- Pekingese (89% affected) and Japanese Chin (82%) were identified as highest risk, with rates comparable to pugs, French bulldogs and bulldogs.
- King Charles spaniel, Shih Tzu, Griffon Bruxellois, Boston terrier and Dogue de Bordeaux showed moderate prevalence, while Staffordshire bull terrier, Cavalier King Charles spaniel, Chihuahua, Boxer and Affenpinscher were classed as mild.
- Facial flatness, narrowed nostrils and higher body condition were the strongest risk factors, but together explained about 20% of BOAS variation, pointing to other contributing traits.
- Researchers recommend breed-specific respiratory testing and selection away from extreme conformation; Pomeranian and Maltese were not clinically affected in this sample, and breathing assessments remain the most reliable tool for breeding and welfare decisions.