Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Breathing problems and sleep issues in flat-faced dogs compared
By Barker, David A et al.·Published in The Veterinary record·2021·Paragon Veterinary Referrals, United Kingdom·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Owner reported breathing scores, accelerometry and sleep disturbances in brachycephalic and control dogs: A pilot study.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A study found that brachycephalic dogs, like Bulldogs and Pugs, often have more trouble sleeping and may breathe poorly during the night compared to other dogs. Owners reported that these breeds were less active and had higher breathing scores, indicating potential breathing issues. While the total amount of sleep and activity was similar between brachycephalic and control dogs, the brachycephalic dogs experienced more sleep disturbances. This suggests that breathing problems in these breeds can affect their sleep quality, which may impact their overall well-being.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES: To compare physical activity and length and quality of sleep between brachycephalic dogs and a control population. METHODS: Brachycephalic and control dogs were prospectively enrolled. Length of activity and sleep were determined via accelerometer use. Owners completed a questionnaire regarding typical daily activity, sleep patterns and an 'owner reported breathing score (ORBS)'. One hour of normal home sleep was recorded for each dog, and a veterinary observer subjectively scored the dogs' sleep quality. RESULTS: Twenty brachycephalic and 15 control dogs were included. There were no differences between age and weight. Owners reported brachycephalic dogs to be less active (p = 0.022) and have higher ORBS (p < 0.001) compared to control dogs. Brachycephalic dogs had increased sleep disturbances compared to control dogs (p = 0.001), and video sleep score was positively correlated with increased sleep disturbances (r= 0.47, p = 0.007). There were no differences in active and sleep times based on accelerometry between groups. CONCLUSION: Brachycephalic dogs have more disturbed sleep, which may have negative implications on welfare, but there were no differences in activity or length of sleep between groups. There is evidence that signs suggestive of brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) as assessed by ORBS is correlated with poorer sleep quality, indicating that reduced sleep quality is part of BOAS. Owners may underestimate disturbed sleep or may perceive disturbed sleep to be normal.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34403514/