Breeding has given brachycephalic dogs shorter skulls, leading to narrow nostrils and a narrow pharynx, making breathing difficult. Some of these dogs have such severe breathing problems that they require surgery. Now, Australian researchers have developed an injection treatment that helps open the airways, major media report.
The treatment uses a modified tetanus toxin that strengthens the muscles in the dog's mouth floor and helps keep the airways open. In an initial study, six bulldogs with such severe problems that they could barely manage a three-minute walk participated. After treatment, all dogs showed improvement and could manage a brisk walk, which had previously been difficult for them.
The study is published in The Veterinary Journal. The long-term effectiveness and safety of the injection treatment remain unknown, as does the cost and availability. It is also unclear whether there are any side effects of the modified tetanus toxin.