Morphometric assessment and body condition scoring as predictors of brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome in dogs

Abstract

Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) results from extreme craniofacial conformation and obesity in brachycephalic dogs. This study assessed morphometrics and body condition in 60 dogs, including Pugs, Boxers, Shih Tzus, Lhasa Apsos, Bulldogs, and Pekingese. Measurements included Craniofacial Ratio (CFR), eye width ratio (EWR), skull index (SI), neck girth ratio (NGR), and neck length ratio (NLR), using soft tape and radiographs. The mean CFR and NGR indicated high BOAS risk, especially in Pugs, while skull indices confirmed brachycephalic conformation (SI: 0.937±0.01). Most dogs had elevated BCS (7-8), further increasing risk. Results highlight that craniofacial conformation and body condition are key predictors of BOAS, supporting targeted weight management and selective breeding to improve respiratory health.