Health pillar / Respiratory function
BOAS, breathing & functional assessment
BOAS is a clinical syndrome, not a judgement made from appearance alone. Responsible assessment combines history, breathing at rest, a controlled exercise test and recovery under a trained veterinarian.
What can be observed
Open nostrils matter, but visible nostrils do not describe the entire airway. Soft palate, larynx, tongue, trachea, body condition and heat all influence function.
- Quiet breathing at rest and light activity is an important welfare signal.
- Heat intolerance, disturbed sleep, gagging or prolonged recovery deserve veterinary attention.
What breeding can and cannot claim
Selection for functional breathing, moderate anatomy and healthy body condition can reduce risk. It cannot guarantee prevention of an elongated soft palate, a narrow trachea or BOAS in every descendant.
- Ask for the assessment method, date, age and identity of the tested dog.
- Interpret grades with a veterinarian and alongside the complete dog.
Educational information only. Discuss an individual dog’s health with your veterinarian and review its own veterinary and laboratory records.
How parent records are shared →