BOAS or Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome is a breathing condition that affects many of your favorite dog breeds like Pugs, French Bulldogs, and Shih Tzus. Luckily, pet insurance can help cover it if is not a pre-existing condition and it does not.
Let us tell you more about this condition and why is it common among certain breeds.
What is BOAS in Dogs?
You’ll have to understand brachycephalic dogs to understand Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome. It is a scientific term describing dogs with a short muzzle or nose. The skull bones of these dogs are compressed, which makes the dog’s face flattened or pushed in compared to other dogs. It is caused by selective breeding and can cause severe health and lifestyle issues to the dog.
Below are the common problems caused by this facial structure – (1)
Narrow nostrils – This makes it difficult for the air to pass through, and hence, each breath takes more effort. For some dogs, it can get so difficult that they have to resort to panting or breathing through the mouth.
Crowded nose – Small noses have to pack the same number of tissues that longer noses have. This can make the nose crowded and cause difficulty in breathing.
Elongated soft palate – These dogs can have a long soft palate (the soft back part at the back of the mouth) which blocks the air in the windpipe. This is the reason you hear loud snoring noises in affected dogs.
Narrow windpipe – The narrower the windpipe, the more difficult it is to breathe for obvious reasons. Such dogs also have two sacs inside the windpipe that can enlarge and cause more difficulties.
These issues can lead to more complicated issues like airway collapse, including the windpipe (trachea) and the larynx (the voice box).
Read More: What are the Brachycephalic Dog Breeds?
What are the Symptoms of BOAS in Dogs?
Flat-faced dogs can start showing symptoms in their puppy stages, but some of them don’t show any till they are 2-4 years old. You’ll see the following symptoms if the dog is developing BOAS – (1)
Loud breathing
Snoring
Difficulty while breathing
Lack of good sleep
Excessive panting
Refraining from exercise
Heatstroke during hot weather
Difficulty eating
Vomiting (because of the pressure created in the abdomen due to breathing difficulties)
Blue colored skin
Collapse (in extreme cases)
A heatstroke can be quite serious and can even lead to collapse.
Which Dog Breeds are Prone to BOAS?
As mentioned above, it is the breeds with short noses and flat faces that are highly prone to issues related to BOAS. They include breeds like –
French Bulldog / English Bulldog
Pug
Shih Tzu
Pekingnese
Boston Terrier
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Boxer
Japanese Chin
Lhasa Apso
How to Treat BOAS in Dogs?
The most common treatment for dogs with BOAS-related issues is surgery. It can include widening the nostrils and shortening the soft palate. It is said to dramatically improve a dog’s life. It is always better to consult a vet or a specialist as soon as you spot any symptoms. The later you opt for surgery, the more risks it can have. (1)
There are some additional care measures you’ll need to treat dogs with BOAS issues. They include –
Weight maintenance – As these dogs face issues while working out, it is important to keep their weight in check. Extra weight around the neck and face can make the situation worse. Your vet may prescribe a special diet here.
Exercise – You cannot take these dogs for an exhaustive workout session, but you can do short walks daily. Use a harness instead of a collar, as pressure on their neck can cause swelling and make it more difficult for them to breathe. Keep them hydrated throughout the workout. And the moment you see heavy panting, it’s time to get them home and provide some rest.
Weather management – You must avoid hot weather with these dogs. It is difficult for them to cool themselves down on a hot, sunny day. They can suffer from heatstroke, which can even be fatal. Take the dog out early morning or late evening when it’s cooler during summer. Keep the walks shorter on such days and carry plenty of water.
Can BOAS in Dogs be Prevented?
We know that it is always better to prevent any condition rather than find a cure for it. Unfortunately, you cannot prevent BOAS in dogs as it is a genetic condition. Hence, it is important to avoid breeding dogs affected with it, even if you’ve treated them with surgery.
How Much Does it Cost to Treat BOAS in Dogs?
The treatment cost will depend on the number of procedures required for the surgery. The dog may require having the soft palate, laryngeal saccules and nares all corrected. If all of these are needed, then the cost should be around $2000-$2500. One or two of the above procedures should cost around $1000-$1500. The cost can vary depending on the type of facility, surgeon, location, etc. If you go to a general practice, the cost will usually be lower. (2)
Does Dog Insurance cover BOAS?
Yes, most pet insurance plans will help cover BOAS surgery if it is not a pre-existing condition and the condition developed after the waiting period. Accident only plans will not cover BOAS, as this type of plan does not cover any illnesses.
With Spot Pet Insurance, you can save up to 90% of the eligible costs not only related to the surgery but also on prescription diets, alternate therapies, follow-up vet visits, and more.
More About Spot Pet Insurance
Dog Insurance can help provide financial assistance for eligible veterinary care in case of unexpected accidents, illnesses, or injuries. Our plans can help pet parents manage the eligible costs of covered veterinary care and help ensure that their pets can receive the best treatment possible. Here are some ways that Spot pet insurance plans can help:
Covers Unexpected Veterinary Costs: Spot pet insurance plans help cover the eligible costs of unexpected veterinary treatments, such as emergency surgeries, X-rays, and prescription medications for covered conditions.
Customizable Plans: Choose your annual limit, reimbursement rate, and deductible from a range of options, and create the plan that will fit the needs of your pet and your budget.
Peace of Mind: With Spot pet insurance plans, pet parents can know that they can provide the best care for their pet with less worry about the cost.
To learn more about Spot Plans or to get a free quote, click here.
With 10 years of experience as a pet parent, I aim to empower pet owners with insights into pet insurance and maintaining their pet's well-being. I aspire to be a trusted source, combining knowledge with a commitment to the welfare of our beloved pets.
With 15 years as a dog and cat parent, my pet articles are a mix of humor and firsthand experience - proof that the best stories often come with paws and purrs.
BOAS - breathing problems in flat-faced dogs. (n.d.). PDSA. https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/pet-health-hub/conditions/boas-breathing-problems-in-flat-faced-dogs
Average cost of BOAS surgery for dogs | Expert Q&A. (2024, December 28). JustAnswer. https://www.justanswer.com/dog-health/7tqdw-average-cost-surgery-brachycephalic-airway-syndrome.html
