16 Brachycephalic Dogs With Flat Faces

Brachycephalic dogs typically have a more compact skull and shorter snout, giving them a flat-faced appearance. Though cute, this anatomy can pose some challenges.

“While their bones are shorter, the soft tissues inside, like the tongue and soft palate, are not reduced in size,” says Mike Dugan, DVM, a veterinarian at Small Door Veterinary in Washington D.C. “This creates a crowded airway where the same amount of tissue is packed into a much smaller space.”

This often impacts a dog’s breathing, especially during exercise or in extreme heat and cold. Because of this, flat-faced dogs are at higher risk for various health conditions.

Brachycephalic dogs might also be affected by several health conditions, says Carly Fox, DVM, senior veterinarian at the Schwarzman Animal Medical Center in New York City. Common health considerations include:

• Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)
• Aspiration pneumonia
• Heatstroke
• Eye problems
• Gastrointestinal diseases, like chronic regurgitation or hiatal hernias
• Dental disease

Here are some popular flat-faced dog breeds.

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Inquisitive, loyal, spunky

The Affenpinscher has a bushy mustache and brows that give these flat-faced dogs a serious expression. But the reality is that this breed is a lively and comedic little dog that will keep you on your toes.

Though these dogs are small, don’t overlook their need for exercise—aim for 30 minutes every day. When the temperature rises outside, you can keep your Affen cool while satisfying this need with indoor games.

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 11–13 years
• Temperament: Bubbly, happy-go-lucky, outgoing

Boston Terriers are known for being sociable, playful, and sturdy enough for most outdoor adventures (as long as the weather doesn’t get too hot). Like many dogs with a squished face, Bostons don’t do well in hot weather.

• Size: Large
• Lifespan: 10–12 years
• Temperament: Active, easygoing, silly

The bouncy Boxer is an energetic pup, but their broad, short nose means caution should be taken in extreme temperatures. Their playful nature makes them a good family dog who loves going on neighborhood walks and playing in the backyard.

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Clever, sidekick, silly

This brachycephalic dog breed might look like it has a permanent pout, but don’t let that fool you. The Brussels Griffon breed is a good-natured pup who enjoys spending time with their human family members, despite their grumpy appearance.

These small dogs can have a smooth, flat coat or a rougher, wirier coat that gives them an expressive beard. Rough-coated Brussels Griffons will need more grooming upkeep.

• Size: Medium
• Lifespan: 8–10 years
• Temperament: Charming, cuddly, silly

Commonly called English Bulldogs, the Bulldog is an iconic breed known for their stout frame and wrinkly, flat face.

It’s a well-known fact that these dogs are couch potatoes. And while they still need some daily exercise, make sure it’s not too hot out for them. You’ll also need to frequently wipe those face wrinkles clean to prevent infection. 

• Size: Extra-large
• Lifespan: 7–9 years
• Temperament: Affectionate, confident, loyal

The Bullmastiff is a giant dog breed with a short, square nose. As a result, these dogs don’t do well in very hot weather, and they’re not well-suited as jogging companions.

But if you need a large and loyal companion to join you for daily strolls around the block, this flat-faced dog breed will gladly accompany you. When you return home, don’t be surprised if your supersized friend wants to lean against you—or even tries to sit in your lap.

• Size: Large
• Lifespan: 9–12 years
• Temperament: Loyal, serious, smart

The majestic Cane Corso has a sleek coat and muscular build. This Italian breed often exhibits a strong guardian instinct and is very loyal to human family members.

While the breed’s shortened muzzle isn’t as drastic as some other brachycephalic dog breeds, Cani Corsi can still be prone to overheating in hot and humid weather, so take caution during the summer.

• Size: Medium
• Lifespan: 8–12 years
• Temperament: Bright, loyal, stoic

Life with a Chow Chow means you’ll spend a lot of time grooming your dog, since this breed needs to be thoroughly brushed at least a couple of times each week (though daily brushing is best). But that’s a small price to pay for having this fuzzy buddy at your side. Their snout isn’t as flat as some other breeds on this list, but it’s shorter than a typical pup’s.

This breed can be aloof around new people, so pet parents need to make early and consistent socialization a top priority.

• Size: Extra-large
• Lifespan: 5–8 years
• Temperament: Loyal, quiet, aloof

The Dogue de Bordeaux’s short nose, wrinkly face, and droopy jowls give off serious vibes, but the truth is that these dogs are big softies … who also happen to drool quite a bit. Keep a towel close by and wipe their face down after they eat to keep their skin folds healthy.

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 10–12 years
• Temperament: Affectionate, eager to please, bright

The English Toy Spaniel isn’t turning their nose up at you, at least not if you’re in their inner circle. These companion dogs bond tightly to their people but do tend to be more reserved with strangers.

But once you’ve won over an English Toy Spaniel with a few belly rubs or some playtime, these good-natured dogs won’t give you the cold shoulder anymore.

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 10–12 years
• Temperament: Quirky, bubbly, BFF

Adaptability is the superpower of the French Bulldog—that’s part of what makes them the most popular dog breed in the U.S. These good-natured pups are agreeable to just about anything, and they’re super cute, too.

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 10–12 years
• Temperament: Strong-willed, bright, amusing

The Japanese Chin is a tiny dog with a bright personality. These lapdogs have a silky coat and delicate features, including an itty bitty upturned nose and short snout.

Your Chin will appreciate a daily walk or two, but it’s OK if most of your time together is inside. These dogs are quick learners, and they love to impress an audience, especially for a treat.

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Bright, loyal, playful

A lapdog with a luscious coat, the Lhasa Apso is a gentle companion who doesn’t demand much in the way of exercise. These small-breed dogs are content with a short walk once or twice a day. The biggest commitment you’ll have is brushing your dog’s double coat every day to prevent tangles.

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 12–14 years
• Temperament: Bold, charming, noble

The Pekingese is covered in a dense, long coat of fur. As if that’s not reason enough to keep these pups out of hot weather, the breed has a squished face that makes it hard for them to breathe when the temperature rises. Make sure they have easy access to AC in the summer.

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 13–15 years
• Temperament: BFF, friendly, optimistic

With their big bug eyes, flat face, and curly tail, the Pug is instantly recognizable. Another popular companion, these pups are known for being smart, easy-to-train, and playful. However, expect your furry friend to snort and snore—a result of the breed’s short airway and flat face.

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 10–18 years
• Temperament: Affectionate, charming, playful

A true lapdog at heart, a Shih Tzu will be happy to cuddle up with you on the couch any time of the day. These dogs don’t require much in the way of rigorous exercise (one or two daily walks is usually plenty) but do need daily brushing or regular trips to the groomer to keep their long, silky coat looking its best. 

Like any other breed, flat-faced dogs need sufficient exercise, mental enrichment, positive reinforcement training, regular grooming, and veterinary care. But because these dogs have shorter airways and are at greater risk for some health concerns, you’ll need to take special precautions regarding their care. 

Brachycephalic dogs have short airways, so breathing can become labored very easily. Because of this, “Brachycephalic dogs are typically unable to exercise or walk for extended periods of time, even in normal temperatures,” Dr. Fox says.

Be conscious of clues that your dog has reached their limit: heavy breathing, panting, or lying down are clear signs that your doggy needs a break ASAP.

Extreme weather can exacerbate the breathing problems experienced by flat-faced dogs. With that in mind, Dr. Dugan points out that pet parents should avoid outdoor activity during peak heat and prioritize air conditioning for their furry friends.

Obesity puts any dog at risk for greater health complications. But it’s especially important that brachycephalic dogs don’t pack on the pounds from inactivity or overfeeding.

“Maintaining a lean body weight is the most impactful way to support these dogs, as extra weight puts more pressure on their breathing,” says Dr. Dugan. 

Instead of walking your dog with a leash attached to a collar, Dr. Dugan suggests using a harness to reduce strain on your dog’s windpipe, which might already be narrow for a brachycephalic breed. This can be especially important if your dog pulls on the leash.

Flat-faced dogs with a lot of wrinkles—Pugs, Bulldogs, and Bullmastiffs, for example—might develop skin infections if you don’t regularly wipe their folds clean.

It’s also important to regularly brush your dog’s teeth. Dogs with a squished face often have a small mouth with crowded teeth that are susceptible to plaque and tartar build-up. Left unchecked, dental problems can result. 

Always use a dog-safe toothpaste and toothbrush. Other tools, like dental chews, water additives, and powders, can also help prevent dental disease.

Your veterinarian might recommend surgery for brachycephalic dogs before serious complications arise.

“The cost of preventative BOAS correction is always less than if needed on an emergency basis,” Dr. Fox says. Talk to your veterinarian about your dog’s specific condition and the benefits and risks associated with surgery.