Signs & symptoms of BOAS

Noisy breathing is not normal, it can be a sign of brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS).

Signs can vary from dog to dog and may include breathing difficulties during exercise, disturbed sleep or difficulty coping with warmer weather.

Recognising these signs early can help you understand when your dog may need a veterinary airway assessment.

• Noisy breathing: Snoring, snorting, wheezing or high-pitched breathing sounds, even when resting.

• Exercise intolerance: Tiring easily, slowing down or needing frequent breaks during walks or play.

• Difficulty recovering after exercise: Heavy breathing or taking longer than expected to return to normal.

• Heat intolerance: Struggling to stay cool, particularly during warm weather or physical activity.

• Disturbed sleep: Loud snoring, restless sleep or episodes where breathing appears to stop temporarily.

• Gagging or regurgitation: Bringing up food or fluid, particularly around mealtimes or exercise.

• Breathing distress: Laboured breathing, weakness or collapse in more severe cases.