Breathe Easier Together: Protecting Flat-Faced Breeds from BOAS and Heat in the Aussie Summer

When the mercury climbs, our beloved flat-faced friends—Pugs, French Bulldogs, and Shih Tzus—face battles we can’t always see.

Their short snouts and narrow airways turn a sunny day into a silent struggle for breath, making Australia’s summer not just uncomfortable but potentially deadly.

Understanding BOAS: Why Breathing Is Hard Work

Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) is a structural disorder that narrows a dog’s airways, forcing them to work harder just to breathe.

Because dogs don’t sweat, they depend on panting to cool down—exhaling hot air and evaporating moisture from their tongues.

But when temperatures rise above 24°C and humidity increases, their cooling system fails. Body heat rises fast, risking heatstroke within minutes.

Why Australian Summers Are a Nightmare for BOAS Dogs

Even shaded backyards can become dangerous when humidity rises above 60%. Every laboured breath generates more internal heat, which these dogs can’t release efficiently.

Research shows brachycephalic breeds are up to ten times more likely to suffer heat-related illness. The risk increases further if they’re overweight or weigh more than 15 kilograms.

Why Fans Won’t Help—and What Actually Does

Fans move air, but they don’t cool dogs who rely on moisture evaporation to shed heat. The only truly safe space for these breeds during summer is indoors in an air-conditioned environment.

Outdoor time should be brief, supervised, and ideally before 8 AM or after 8 PM.

Surgery Helps, But It’s Not a Cure

Airway surgery—such as widening nostrils or shortening the soft palate—can improve airflow and quality of life, but BOAS is progressive.

Early intervention, ideally before the age of two, offers better long-term outcomes, yet these dogs will always remain heat-sensitive. Pet families must continue lifelong management to protect them through every summer.

Discover how our advanced laser-assisted BOAS surgeries are helping flat-faced breeds breathe easier, recover faster, and enjoy more comfortable lives—especially through the Aussie heat.

Spot the Signs of Heat Distress Early

Early warning signs include heavy panting, drooling, red gums, or restlessness.

If your dog weakens, collapses, vomits, or seizes, act fast: move them to a cool area, apply tepid (not icy) water to their groin and armpits, and get immediate veterinary care.

Summer Survival Strategies for Flat-Faced Companions

Walks should happen only in the coolest parts of the day, with access to water at all times. Keep homes air-conditioned, use cooling mats or vests, and skip outings when humidity exceeds 50%.

Never rely on fans alone—they simply don’t work for BOAS dogs.

Here’s a quick guide to the biggest summer risk factors and how to manage them safely.

Empowering Pet Parents in Australia

Australian vets are seeing alarming spikes in BOAS-related heatstroke, with dozens of emergency cases each summer.

Early assessment—through a BOAS grading exam or exercise test—can guide interventions that save lives.

Weight control, nutritional advice, and responsible breeding are the keys to helping these dogs breathe easier for years to come.

Partner with Your Vet for a Safer Summer

If your flat-faced friend struggles with the heat, don’t wait.



Help your flat-faced friend breathe easier this summer — schedule a visit with your Vetland Hospital & Emergency team today.