Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome Surgeries

At Two Rivers Veterinary Hospital, we understand the unique health challenges that come with brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds such as French Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, and English Bulldogs. One of the most serious issues affecting these beloved breeds is Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS)—a condition that can significantly impact a dog’s ability to breathe, especially in warm weather or during physical activity.

BOAS occurs due to anatomical abnormalities like elongated soft palates, narrowed nostrils (stenotic nares), and other upper airway restrictions that reduce airflow. Left unaddressed, this condition can worsen over time and lead to heat stroke, collapse, or chronic respiratory distress.

If your dog does the following, it likely has BOAS:

Labored and loud breathing
Snoring or snorting
Low interest in activity
Gagging or collapse
Positional sleep or rest preferences (on back and/or head propped up — watch for an extended neck)
Digestive issues like frequent regurgitation

Corrective surgery can dramatically improve the quality of life for these beloved breeds.

Surgeries We Perform

Soft Palate Resection

Staphylectomy
This procedure trims the excess tissue at the back of the throat, allowing more space for airflow and making breathing easier, especially during exercise or warm weather.
Stenotic Nares Correction

Alarplasty
By widening the narrow nostrils, this surgery helps your pet breathe more comfortably through their nose, reducing snorting and improving overall oxygen flow.

Why Timing Matters

Early surgical intervention is key. We strongly recommend BOAS corrective surgery at the time of your dog’s spay or neuter, when possible. This proactive approach can help improve quality of life from an early age and prevent long-term complications. It’s important to note, however, that some dogs may require a second surgery later in life as tissues continue to change with age.

Surgical Expertise You Can Trust

Dr. Tracie Hoggarth has developed a trusted reputation across the region as one of the most experienced BOAS surgeons—particularly for French Bulldogs, a breed she knows intimately (and adores—every Frenchie featured on this page is one of her own!). Her surgical expertise includes preventative soft palate resections and stenotic nares corrections, both of which help significantly improve airflow and comfort for these short-nosed breeds.

Note that dogs with advanced symptoms, complications like laryngeal disease, or higher anesthetic risk factors are referred to a boarded surgeon with 24-hour observation and critical care support.

Thinking of buying a French bulldog?

Here’s what I tell my clients first.

By Dr. Tracie Hoggarth, DVM

French bulldogs are undeniably charming—those big eyes, smooshy faces, and snorting little personalities make them irresistible. But as a veterinarian with a special interest in brachycephalic health, I always encourage prospective owners to slow down and do their homework before purchasing a Frenchie puppy.

Unfortunately, the breed’s popularity has fueled irresponsible breeding practices. That means more puppies with health issues, and more heartache (and vet bills) down the road. If you're considering adding a French bulldog to your family, here are my top 10 tips for finding an ethical breeder and choosing a healthy, happy puppy.

How to Tell If a Breeder Is Ethical

I always purchase from breeders that love the breed as much as I do … focus on quality over quantity of litters. Breeders that select to “improve the breed long term” and seek to understand and collaborate on their care. They are not in denial about the health issues associated with brachycephalic conformation but are also striving to improve their life quality via familial and medical means.

1. They prioritize health over profit.
Ethical breeders select for structure and form over fads. They perform genetic health testing on their breeding dogs and can provide you with documentation. For Frenchies, this should include screening for brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), spinal abnormalities (like hemivertebrae), and other common issues.

2. They are transparent and happy to answer questions.
A reputable breeder welcomes your curiosity. They’ll answer questions openly, provide references from past puppy buyers, and are proud to share details about their breeding program.

3. They don’t always have puppies available.
Good breeders limit how often their dogs are bred and often have waitlists. If a breeder has litters available year-round or always has puppies “ready to go,” that’s a red flag.

4. Puppies are raised in the home—not in a kennel.
Puppies should be exposed to normal household sounds, people, and routines. Early socialization is critical for development—and backyard or commercial breeders often miss this window.

5. They require a contract and will take the dog back at any time.
An ethical breeder is invested in their dogs for life. Most use contracts that prevent rehoming without contacting them first, and they’re committed to finding solutions if things don’t work out.

What to Look For in a Healthy Puppy

6. Look for good nostril and muzzle structure.
Frenchies are prone to breathing issues. Choose a puppy with open nostrils, wider nasal passages, and a slightly longer muzzle—these traits reduce the likelihood of needing corrective BOAS surgery down the road.

7. Observe their energy and breathing.
A healthy puppy shouldn’t snore excessively while awake, gasp for air during play, or struggle in warm temperatures. If they’re already showing signs of respiratory distress, walk away.

8. Check the eyes, skin, and ears.
Healthy Frenchie puppies should have clear eyes without discharge, clean ears, and skin free of rashes or irritation. The skin folds should be kept clean, but excessive inflammation can be a sign of poor breeding.

9. Ask to meet both parents (or at least the dam).
You can learn a lot by meeting the parents. Do they move comfortably? Can they breathe normally? Are they friendly and social? Temperament and structure are often inherited.

10. Trust your instincts.
If something feels “off,” it probably is. A good breeder will make you feel welcome, informed, and comfortable. If you’re rushed, discouraged from asking questions, or pressured to buy quickly—move on.

Final Thoughts

French bulldogs can make amazing companions, but they deserve to start life on the right paw. As a veterinarian, I’ve seen what poor breeding can do—and I want you and your future Frenchie to thrive together.

Have questions? The team at Two Rivers Vet Hospital is here to support you at every step of your journey—from choosing a puppy to navigating their lifelong health needs.

Frenchy Spotlight