BOAS, BREATHING & FUNCTION
Welcome to the Bullbreeds United health hub for BOAS (Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome). Our mission is to provide clear, evidence-based education focused on the function and longevity of our beloved bullbreeds. Understanding the respiratory health of these breeds is essential for every responsible owner and breeder. Breathing is the most fundamental function of life, and preserving it is our highest priority.
WHAT CAN CONTRIBUTE TO BOAS?
BOAS is a complex syndrome involving multiple anatomical factors. While nostril shape is highly visible, it is only one part of the upper airway. Factors such as a long soft palate (overlong soft palate), narrow windpipe (tracheal hypoplasia), and excess tissue in the larynx (everted laryngeal saccules) all contribute to respiratory obstruction. Focusing solely on nostrils ignores the internal airway health that defines true respiratory function.
SIGNS OWNERS SHOULD RECOGNISE
- Loud breathing or snoring while awake.
- Excessive panting even in mild conditions.
- Reluctance to exercise or rapid exhaustion.
- Regurgitation or digestive issues related to heavy breathing.
- Sleep apnea (stopping breathing during sleep).
EMERGENCY WARNING
If your dog collapses, has blue/purple gums, or shows extreme respiratory distress, seek immediate veterinary attention. BOAS-related heatstroke can be fatal.
OPEN NOSTRILS MATTER
Open nostrils (stenotic nares vs. open nares) are the gateway to the respiratory system. Selecting for wider, more open nostrils is a critical step in breeding for better breathing. However, it is vital to understand that open nostrils alone do not prove a dog is BOAS-free; they must be combined with a sound internal airway.
"A dog should be able to be a dog."
Everyday function—exercise, play, and quick recovery—is the ultimate measure of health. A dog's ability to live an active life without respiratory impairment is the goal of every responsible breeder. Formal veterinary assessment plays a key role in objectively measuring this function under controlled conditions.
FORMAL BOAS ASSESSMENT
We recognize established, formal grading schemes provided by veterinary specialists. BBU avoids promoting any invented universal grading; instead, we provide the platform to record the scheme name, date, and result of recognized tests to build a profile of health evidence for your dog.
BOAS IS NOT JUST SNORING
For too long, obstructive breathing sounds have been dismissed as 'normal for the breed.' Snoring, grunting, and noisy breathing are not breed characteristics; they are signs of airway struggle. Assessment should be evidence-led, moving away from assumptions and towards functional reality.
BREEDING FOR BETTER BREATHING
Responsible selection means pairing dogs with proven respiratory function. The principle is clear: improvement is measured across generations. By selecting for open nostrils, good neck length, and active lifestyles, we protect the future of our breeds.
BBU OPEN NOSTRILS RECOGNITION
This scheme highlights visual evidence of open respiratory gateways. While a helpful indicator, it does not replace a veterinary BOAS certification. It serves to encourage and recognize selection for better anatomy in our breeds.
THE BBU REGISTRY – RECORD THE EVIDENCE
Respiratory Grading
Visual Nostril Checks
EVIDENCE OVER ASSUMPTIONS.
Preserving the past. Protecting the future.
OPEN NOSTRILS AWARDS AT BARBIEBULLS SHOWS
In-person awards at Barbiebulls Shows recognize dogs with excellent external respiratory anatomy. These achievements are recorded on your dog's registry profile to build a history of recognized quality. Note: These awards are educational and anatomical acknowledgments, not BOAS-free medical certifications.