Caring For A Brachycephalic Dog

Do you have a brachy? Brachycephalic dogs are those pooches with cute, pushed in faces, like pugs and bulldogs. These lovable pooches make great pets! However, they do have a few specific care requirements that you should be aware of. Read on as a Lakeville, MN vet discusses caring for a brachy.

Respiration

One thing that is very important for people with brachys to understand is that these cute pooches have very short nasal passages and airways. This makes them very susceptible to respiratory issues. We recommend getting a harness, rather than a collar, for your furry buddy, especially if he is a small dog.

Grooming

Many brachys have short, smooth coats that only need occasional baths. It is important to take care of Fido’s teeth, and give him regular nail trims. If your pooch has ‘wrinkles,’ you’ll need to take care to keep those skin folds clean. Otherwise, they can harbor harmful bacteria, which can cause skin problems. Many shorter brachys, like other small dogs, are somewhat prone to getting tearstains, in part because it’s so easy for them to get dust in their eyes. Use doggy facial wipes, or a facecloth with warm water, to keep your pup’s eyes clean. Ear care is also important. If your pooch has floppy ears, you’ll need to clean them regularly, as otherwise Fido could develop painful infections. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Exercise

Because of the shape and size of their nasal passages, brachys get out of breath very easily. This puts them at great risk of losing their breath, sometimes with only mild exertion. You should never encourage your furry friend to run, jump, or swim. A short walk is often sufficient for these guys. Ask your vet for more information.

Heat

Heat is another concern for brachys. Hot weather can be very dangerous for these pooches! Fido will have a hard time cooling off if he overheats, as panting isn’t as effective for him as it is for other pooches. In hot weather, make sure that your four-legged buddy always has lots of fresh, cold water and a cool, shaded area to hang out. Your canine pal may appreciate a kiddie pool to splash around in.

Please do not hesitate to contact us, your local Lakeville, MN vet clinic, for all of your dog’s veterinary care needs. We are always happy to help!