Pekingese Dogs & Brachycephaly

The Head of a Pekingese

In humans, brachycephaly is often called "flat-head syndrome." In dogs, it is better known as a bulldog or pug face. There are several other breeds exhibiting this facial feature to varying degrees. Among them are the Boston Terrier, boxer, shih tzu, and of course the Pekingese. Illustrating this disorder in no uncertain way, the figure to the left is a depiction of the skull of a normal Pekingese dog.

While the outward result is certainly endearing and amusing, this structure is the cause of a multitude of health concerns for the affected breeds. The primary concerns pertain to the eyes and the nose, and impingements on other aspects of the animal's health will also occur, such as facial skin disorders, compromised physical endurance, and trouble with the regulation of body temperature.

We have put together an article discussing the general health problems of Pekingese dogs, which includes the issues posed by their inherent brachycephaly. Read this information at Pekingese Health Problems.

Return to: Pekingese Information