The short faces of Pugs, Boston Terriers, Pekingese, Boxers, Bulldogs and other breeds are cute, but can cause problems. Its called brachycephalic (short head) syndrome. Essentially years of breeding have compacted the anatomy of the nose and mouth of these breeds into a smaller area making it difficult for them to breathe.
What Are Stenotic Nares?
Stenotic nares is a fancy term for narrowed nostrils. In breeds with short heads, the nasal passage opening is abnormally narrow. If it is severe, then it needs surgical correction to help the dog breathe normally. Think of trying to breath through a coffee stirrer vs. a large straw. In this procedure, the surgeon simply makes a small incision in the nostril and sutures it into a more open position.
