Every Frenchie owner knows the soundtrack — the snorts, the snores, the little grunts. Most of it is just the breed being the breed. But the same flat face that makes those sounds cute can also make breathing genuinely hard, and the line between charming and concerning isn't always obvious.
Background snoring while asleep is usually fine. What's worth attention: noisy, labored breathing while just resting; gums or tongue turning bluish or grey; gagging or retching during normal activity; or your dog tiring out fast on a gentle walk. Heat and excitement make all of it worse.
The condition behind the worst cases has a name — BOAS, or brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome — and it ranges from mild to serious. The good news is a lot can be managed, and some cases improve with surgery. The first step is just getting it looked at instead of assuming the noise is normal.
This article isn't a substitute for a vet exam. If you're unsure, call us: (817) 555-0142.
