Do French Bulldogs have breathing problems?
Short answer
Many do. French Bulldogs are brachycephalic (short-nosed), which can cause brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS): narrow nostrils, an overlong soft palate and a narrow windpipe. Choose a puppy whose parents have been BOAS-graded with good results, look for open nostrils, and keep any Frenchie cool, lean and away from strenuous exercise.
Updated · By the PetBuddyHub breeding team
What BOAS grading is
The Respiratory Function Grading Scheme, developed at the University of Cambridge, assesses a dog's breathing before and after a short exercise test and gives a grade from 0 (unaffected) to 3 (severely affected). Breeding from grade 0 and 1 parents is the most effective way to reduce BOAS in puppies.
| Grade | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 0 | No signs of airway obstruction |
| 1 | Mild signs; no impact on exercise |
| 2 | Moderate signs; affected by exercise — breeding not advised |
| 3 | Severe signs; veterinary treatment likely needed |
Warning signs of BOAS
- Loud snoring or snorting while awake
- Struggling or stopping during short walks
- Gagging, regurgitating or difficulty swallowing
- Collapsing or blue gums in heat or after exercise — an emergency
Living with a French Bulldog safely
Keep a Frenchie lean, use a harness rather than a collar, walk in the cool of the day, and keep the house air-conditioned in summer. French Bulldogs must never travel as air cargo — they should travel by road or in the cabin.
Common questions
- Can BOAS be fixed with surgery?
- Often improved, yes. Widening the nostrils and shortening the soft palate helps many dogs; surgery typically costs $2,000–$5,500 and works best when done young.
- Do fluffy French Bulldogs breathe better?
- No. Coat length has no effect on airway shape. Choose by the parents' BOAS grades, not by coat.