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Pattern of breathing in brachycephalic dogs
American Journal of Veterinary Research
|October 1, 1986
Summary
Brachycephalic dogs exhibit abnormal breathing patterns, with many showing signs of upper airway obstruction. Even those with seemingly normal respiratory tracts display unusual breathing loop shapes, suggesting a predisposition to breathing disorders.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Respiratory Physiology
Background:
- Brachycephalic dogs are predisposed to upper airway issues.
- Breathing pattern abnormalities are common in these breeds.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess breathing patterns in brachycephalic dogs using tidal breathing flow-volume loop (TBFVL) analysis.
- To compare TBFVL in brachycephalic dogs with and without clinical signs of airway obstruction.
Main Methods:
- Tidal breathing flow-volume loop (TBFVL) analysis was performed on 19 brachycephalic dogs.
- Breathing patterns were monitored in a subset of dogs during rest.
Main Results:
- 15 dogs showed TBFVL consistent with fixed upper airway obstruction; 4 showed nonfixed obstruction.
- TBFVL in brachycephalic dogs, even those with normal respiratory tracts, differed from healthy non-brachycephalic dogs.
- Periodic breathing patterns with hypopnea and arousal were observed in 2 of 3 dogs monitored during rest.
Conclusions:
- Brachycephalic dogs exhibit distinct breathing patterns compared to non-brachycephalic dogs.
- Abnormalities in TBFVL are prevalent, irrespective of clinical signs of airway obstruction.
- Brachycephalic dogs may be at increased risk for sleep-disordered breathing.