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flag 12 dog breeds, including Pekingese and Chihuahuas, face high risk of breathing issues due to flat faces, study finds.

flag A new study of nearly 900 dogs identifies 12 breeds, including Chihuahuas, Pekingese, Shih Tzus, and Boston terriers, as being at high or moderate risk for brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), a breathing disorder linked to short snouts, narrow nostrils, and flat faces. flag Over 80% of Pekingese and Japanese Chin showed signs of BOAS, while other breeds had rates between 25% and 75%. flag The condition, worsened by obesity and extreme physical traits, can cause breathing issues during exercise, sleep, and in heat. flag Researchers urge owners to choose puppies from health-tested parents and support breeding reforms to reduce extreme features. flag The Kennel Club is expanding its BOAS testing program to include these breeds.

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