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The Hidden Health Crisis Affecting Flat-Faced Dogs
Flat-faced breeds—including French Bulldogs, Pugs, English Bulldogs, Boxers, Shih Tzus, Boston Terriers, Pekingese, Lhasa Apsos, Bullmastiffs, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, just to mention a few—have become some of the most popular but also the most health-challenged.
In fact, flat-faced breeds now make up 20% of all UK dogs, with over 1 million flat-faced dogs registered with The Kennel Club. That means 1 in 5 pet parents have one of the above breeds.
But behind their adorable faces lies an underlying and serious health crisis that few people are talking about — until now.
BOAS - More Than Just a Breathing Problem
Many flat-faced dogs suffer from Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) — a condition caused by their shortened skulls, compressed airways, and restricted breathing passages.
Common Signs of BOAS:
Snoring and snorting
(even when awake)
Noisy or laboured
breathing
Regurgitation or
digestive issues
Low energy levels and reluctance to exercise
Overheating easily
(especially in warm weather)
BOAS is often seen as just a structural breathing issue, but new research confirms it affects far more than just airflow. It also impacts:
1
Heat regulation
2
Digestion
3
Cardiovascular health
4
Sleep quality
5
Overall oxygenation
Restricted airways make it harder for these dogs to cool down, leading to heat exhaustion. Many also suffer from acid reflux, and low oxygen levels contribute to chronic fatigue and organ strain.
This means BOAS is a multi-systemic issue — not just a breathing problem — requiring a more complete approach to care, beyond surgery alone.
The Missing Link
Did you know?
All flat-faced breeds naturally have fewer red blood cells than other dogs — even those with no obvious breathing problems.
This isn’t just about flat faces and bone structure. It’s also about their bodies working harder from birth to carry enough oxygen to their muscles, organs, and tissues.
The Science Behind It
– What No One’s Talking About
A 2023 study confirmed that flat-faced breeds have:
Lower red blood cell counts
(less oxygen transported around the body)
Higher reticulocyte counts
(immature red blood cells, showing their body is constantly struggling to meet oxygen demands)
Increased plasma lactate levels
(a sign of oxygen deprivation, contributing to fatigue, heat intolerance, and slower recovery)
This means every flat-faced dog — whether they show signs or not — has a built-in oxygen disadvantage. Surgery alone cannot solve it.
Oxygen is vital for every system, including the brain, heart, muscles, skin, and immune system. These systems all rely on a good oxygen supply, which stems from healthy red blood cells.
Chronic low cellular oxygen (even mild) can have both short- and long-term health impacts, including:
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Heart strain (leading to heart disease)
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Poor skin and coat health (oxygen supports skin repair)
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Weaker muscles and lower exercise tolerance
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Increased inflammation and slower healing after injuries or illness
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It also affects the eyes, ears, mouth, and all vital organs.
Join This Heart-Led Mission & Receive The Latest Pet Health Wellness Guide + Bonuses.
When you join our mission to support 10,000 flat-faced dogs, you’ll receive a bundle of innovative, science-backed resources, professional guidance, and natural health tools to help your dog breathe easier and live healthier — with or without surgery.
1
The Flat-Faced Dog Breathing & Wellness Guide (Supported by Industry Professionals)
Uncover the key to better breathing and overall wellness for your dog, backed by science.
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2
Puff, Pant or Play energy personality test
Find out where your dog stands today and recommend ways to improve their health.
3
Top 10 Natural Pet Healthcare Tips
Simple, practical ways to naturally improve your pet’s health.
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4
The inspiring flat-faced stories behind this mission
Real testimonials from others in our community.
5
eBook worth £9.99
A real-life story discovering the underlying root causes of chronic disease, which affects 1 in 2 dogs.
6
Learn new, innovative, non-invasive solutions and receive discounts
Help your flat-faced dog breathe easier and stay healthier — with or without surgery.
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7
Learn the cellular health building blocks for your dog’s energy, recovery, immunity
Uncover the key to better breathing and overall wellness for your dog, backed by science.
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8
Community Support
Effortlessly connect with other caring pet parents and a supportive community
In Collaboration with
This collaboration is committed to continuously improve dogs' health and well-being by leveraging collective knowledge and support.
Some of The Industry Recommendations About This Mission
We are proud to have the support and contributions of professionals across veterinary care, pet nutrition, and natural health:
Vicki J Adams
BSc DVM MSc PhD MRCVS
Veterinary Epidemiology Consultant & Chief Executive, Animal Cancer Trust
Penny Wood
("Dr Zoolittle")
Longevity Zoologist, Cognitive Ethologist & Animal Welfare Consultant
Alison Daniel
Co-Founder, My Pet Nutritionist Nutrition (Applied Science) Ad Dip, BSc Hons, Animal Nutrition PD Cert
Rowan Sanderson
Former Chief Nutritional Officer of Bella & Duke Practitioner of Functional Medicine & Nutrition Founder, Hormone Balance Clinic
What Other Flat-Faced Dog Parents Say
“I am so grateful to have found this wonderful community.
It has changed my bulldog's life.”
– Verified Trustpilot Review
"It’s such a refreshing experience to know that they are dedicated to helping both pets and their owners… and highly recommend it to anyone looking to improve their pet’s health."
– Verified Trustpilot Review
Caroline Louise
"BOAS surgery was just the start — OxyPet has been the real game changer.
Easier breathing, calmer sleep, and her energy is better than ever."
– Verified Trustpilot Review
KagsStar
"I never knew about oxygen and red blood cells until OxyPet explained it.
The changes I’ve seen in my Frenchie’s breathing and energy are incredible.
Every flat-faced dog parent needs to know this."
– Verified Trustpilot Review
Candice Badham
See Real Dogs & Real Results
"I'm Amazed"
Main Changes Observed:
(After 30 days)
Improved Breathing
Reduced recovery time
Improved stamina on walks
"His whole life has changed so much"
Main Changes Observed:
(After 14 days)
Breathing no longer rattly
More affectionate / less reactive
Can go for longer walks
"Never seen a set of bloods like it"
Main Changes Observed:
(After 60 days)
Amazing blood results
Improved Energy Levels
Healthier Skin & Coat
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