Expert BOAS Assessments
What is BOAS and why does it matter?
Brachycephalic dogs are loving, playful companions but many struggle more than their owners realise. Snoring, noisy breathing or getting tired quickly aren’t just quirks of the breed. They can be signs of BOAS (Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome), a condition that affects how well your dog can breathe.
Flat-faced breeds such as Pugs, French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, Shih Tzus and Boston Terriers can have narrow airways that make breathing harder than it should be. Over time, this can lead to serious health issues including heatstroke, collapse during exercise, and long-term airway damage.
Early diagnosis gives your dog the best chance of staying safe and active and overall improving their quality of life. BOAS surgery is commonly performed and most dogs experience significant improvement, but outcomes vary depending on the individual case.
What’s included in a BOAS Assessment
Your appointment includes a full clinical evaluation carried out gently and calmly by one of our experienced veterinary surgeons. Our team has extensive experience helping brachycephalic dogs improve their breathing and quality of life, with advanced training in small animal surgery and BOAS management.
- Detailed clinical examination
Assessment of the nose, mouth, throat and breathing patterns at rest and after a little activity. All examinations are supervised by clinical staff and stopped immediately if any signs of distress are observed. - Cambridge Functional BOAS Grading
A short, standardised test to determine whether BOAS is mild, moderate or severe. - Respiratory noise and airflow evaluation
Checking airflow through each nostril and listening for snoring, snorting or abnormal breathing sounds. - Gastrointestinal screening
Many BOAS dogs experience reflux or regurgitation that can worsen breathing, so we assess this too. - Discussion of treatment options
If BOAS surgery could help, Celia will talk you through the procedures, expected outcomes and risks so you can make an informed decision. - Individual risk assessment
Every dog is different, so we consider your dog’s breed, symptoms, clinical findings and overall health when discussing the best next steps. - Advice on ongoing management
Where appropriate, we can offer practical advice on weight management, exercise, temperature control and lifestyle adjustments to help reduce BOAS-related symptoms. - Clear explanation of findings
We take the time to explain what we have found in straightforward language, so you feel confident about what it means for your dog.
Early signs your dog may have BOAS
BOAS Assessments and Grading Clinics are ideal for puppies, newly adopted brachycephalic dogs and any flat-faced dog showing breathing or exercise difficulties. If you notice any of the following, a BOAS assessment is highly recommended:
Frequently Asked Questions about BOAS Grading
Does my dog really need a BOAS assessment?
If your dog snores, breathes noisily, gets tired quickly, struggles with heat, or has episodes of gagging or regurgitation, a BOAS assessment is strongly recommended. Even mild signs can indicate that breathing is harder than it should be.
Is the exercise test safe?
Yes, it is short, controlled and designed specifically for brachycephalic dogs. Our clinical staff monitor your dog closely throughout to ensure they stay safe and comfortable and stopped immediately if any signs of distress are observed. Also, it is not performed in severe cases.
How long does the BOAS consultation take?
Most assessments take around 30 – 45 minutes, depending on the dog and the clinical findings.
Do I need to book a consultation before my BOAS Grading Assessment?
No, your BOAS Grading Assessment will cover the consultation and all findings will be documented in the patient’s clinical record.
Is my dog too young for a BOAS assessment?
BOAS assessments can be carried out from around 6 months of age, but younger puppies showing symptoms can also be assessed at the vet’s discretion.
Can lifestyle changes help my dog if they have BOAS?
Yes. Weight management, controlled exercise, avoiding heat and using a harness instead of a collar can all support better breathing. Your vet will give personalised advice based on your dog’s grade.
Will my dog be in pain after BOAS surgery?
If surgery is recommended, modern anaesthesia and pain relief protocols keep your dog comfortable. Most dogs recover quickly and often show noticeable improvements in breathing shortly afterwards.
How soon will I see improvements if surgery is needed?
Whilst most dogs experience significant improvement within days or weeks, outcomes vary depending on the individual case.
How long is the recovery period after BOAS surgery?
Most dogs need around two weeks of rest and controlled activity. Full recovery typically takes 4 – 6 weeks, depending on the procedures performed however this will vary on each individual case.
Is BOAS surgery safe?
As with any surgical procedure, BOAS surgery carries risks, especially as it involves vital airway structures. These risks, the expected benefits and the full perioperative plan will be discussed in detail during your consultation.
What if my dog is nervous at the vets?
Our team work gently and patiently with every dog. The assessment is calm, low-stress and designed to keep your pet comfortable throughout.
Can I stay with my dog during the assessment?
In most cases, you can stay with them for examinations and discussions. For the short exercise test, your dog may go with the vet team depending on safety and your dog’s temperament.
How often should my dog be reassessed?
If your dog has mild BOAS, your vet may recommend yearly reassessments or sooner if new symptoms develop.
