Flat-faced dogs, also known as “Brachycephalic dogs,” have a reduced snout and skull, giving them a distinct appearance. They’re the squishy dogs. Many breeds of Brachycephalic are becoming favorite pets for people. Flat-faced breeds are ‘lazy’ and require little activity is ideal for sedentary lifestyles with limited space.

Different Types of Flat-Faced Dogs

We can not deny that these flat-faced dogs are cute and loyal. Check out these 17 Adorable Flat-Faced dogs that will melt your heart! 

1. French Bulldog 

French Bulldog is one the most popular breed in the world, originating in France in the mid-1800s. These flat-faced dogs are intelligent, affectionate, and very cute. These small dog breeds hate to exercise, and if allowed, they will always lie around and take rest.

2. Bulldog

The Bulldog is a type of Mastiff breed created in England in the 13th century for dog fighting. They are friendly and pleasant canines who make excellent companions and cuddle buddies. They are usually quiet, lounging around under the dining room table.

These flat-faced dogs can grow up to 50 pounds. Because of their short muzzles and small height, they prefer cooler temperatures and should always be supervised by stairs or marine areas.

3. Boxer

Boxer is a mastiff-type breed with short hair, a smooth coat, normally white, brindle, or fawn. These athletic, affectionate, intelligent flat-faced dogs may look scary but are friendly and kind. Boxers require lots of exercise and playtime daily. 

4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a cross between several toy spaniel breeds. These small, flat-faced dogs are cute, loyal, gentle, and elegant. When fully matured, they are as athletic as other real sporting breeds and enjoy hiking, beach running, and dog sports like flyball. 

5. Cane Corso

Cane Corsos are alert, powerful, and incredibly trainable dogs. They are unsuitable for living with little children because of their size and healthy energy levels. Because this huge guardian breed is naturally protective of its home and family, early training and socialization are essential. 

6. Shih Tzu

Shih Tzu is a cute, low-maintenance small dog that originated in Tibet. Being flat-faced dogs, they have big round eyes, long coats, and big floppy ears. These loyal dogs are also hypoallergenic, making them an excellent choice for those with delicate skin or allergies. 

They stand 10 inches tall and, weigh 9 to 16 pounds, are most happy curled up at your feet or on your lap. They’re fantastic with children and offer gorgeous coats that will have strangers stopping you on the street to admire you.  

7. Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers came from Boston, in the USA, and were previously known as ‘Bullet Heads’ or ‘Round Heads’! These popular flat-faced dogs in the UK are known for their friendly and lively dispositions. They have a calm attitude. 

They like to relax around the house and need a little exercise. The puppies, a mix between the Bulldog and the now-extinct English terrier, are little (up to 17 inches tall and 25 pounds) but full of personality.

8. Pomeranian

The pomeranian is everyone’s favorite happy lapdog. It is a little Spitz breed with a petite, rounded body and square proportions. Little ears, double coats, and curled tails are characteristics shared by this breed and the Spitz. 

9. Pugs

Who could resist these little, flat-faced dogs? These dogs are best known for their wrinkly faces, short muzzles, and fine coat on their small square body. In addition, they can grow up to 13 inches tall and weigh 18 pounds. 

Pugs’ wrinkly features and fun-loving attitudes quickly attract people everywhere they go. Because they have short snouts, they are more prone to health problems such as overheating and breathing difficulty. These adorable dogs have instinct, intelligence, loyalty, and affection.

10. Bullmastiff

Bullmastiff is a huge mastiff-type dog from the United Kingdom, with a strong physique and a short muzzle. They were developed as exceptionally effective guard dogs by crossing the Old English Bulldog and the English Mastiff. 

Bullmastiff is one of the most popular flat-faced dogs in the UK. They are loyal, trainable, alert, confident, and loving. Socialize early, and you’ll have a devoted companion who will serve as your steadfast protector till the end.

11. Dogue de Bordeaux

The Dogue de Bordeaux is a huge breed of French mastiff. These flat-faced dogs are the Bordeaux, powerful dogs with very muscular bodies. This strong breed has been used to pull wagons, transport heavy loads, and protect flocks.

Nowadays, these alert and devoted dogs are becoming pets for many people. This breed has high energy levels; however, if you want to keep it as a pet in your home, you must give them plenty of exercises. 

12. Chow Chow

Do you want a huge, lion-like dog? Then again, who doesn’t? Chow Chow may be perfect for you. Chows form strong bonds with their favorite humans; nevertheless, they are unsuitable for homes with small children or other pets and can be aloof with strangers. 

13. Lhasa Apso

The Lhasa Apso breed originated in Tibet, where they guarded Buddhist monasteries and palaces! They are great playful little companions and are easy to train. They love fast walks and mentally stimulating games. It weighs about 14 pounds and can grow up to 11 inches. 

14. Pekingese

The Pekingese may be the ideal match if your family seeks a small, sweet, fluffy, cuddly breed with less-than-stellar athletic ability. These flat-faced dogs are loving and loyal. They might become highly hostile to strangers and other dogs if they are not properly socialized as puppies.

15. Brussels Griffon

Brussels Griffons are cute flat-faced dogs with intelligent and sensitive natures. These are loyal, alert, and smart dogs. These little puppies can weigh up to 6 kg and make excellent companion dogs for elderly owners and gentle family pets.

16. Japanese Chin

Have you ever met a dog that the AKC describes as “distinctively feline-like”? The dog is the Japanese Chin. With their expressive black eyes and loving nature, they will wiggle their way into your heart. They are low-maintenance pets who don’t require a lot of walking. 

17. English Toy Spaniel

English Toy Spaniels are uncommon in the United States but more frequent in the United Kingdom. They were originally bred to be English Royalty companion dogs. Being flat-faced dogs, they are a friendly dog breed that is easy to teach. 

These lovely, long-haired toy dogs are excellent pets and can be trusted with other animals and children of all ages. Don’t be startled if they nuzzle or lick your face as a reminder to keep going when you’re snuggled up close and patting it. 

Watch this video: 17 Adorable Flat-Faced Dogs That Will Melt Your Heart!

Health Considerations for Flat-Faced Dogs

Many flat-faced dogs suffer from Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome or BOAS. Not every individual will suffer from the worst symptoms of BOAS, but Brachycephalic dog breed owners should be aware of their dogs’ potential symptoms.

Brachycephalic Syndrome

Brachycephalic Syndrome is also known as Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome (BAS). A brachycephalic airway syndrome is a group of upper airway disorders that occur in brachycephalic dogs. 

While we commonly associate BAS with dogs with short noses or “squashed faces” (English Bulldog, Pug, Boston Terrier, and Pekingese), cats such as (Persian) can be affected as well. 

BAS is characterized by stenotic nares (narrow nostrils), elongated soft palate, everted laryngeal saccules, laryngeal collapse, and hypoplastic trachea, with affected dogs and cats having any combination of these abnormalities.

A simple clinical examination, complete oral examination (sedation is required), and chest X-rays can all be used to identify any of these disorders. 

Respiratory Issues 

The respiratory distress that dogs with flat faces might have is known as brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome, sometimes known as a brachycephalic syndrome. 

These dogs frequently have small nostrils, an extended soft palate, excess tissue in the larynx, and a narrower-than-average windpipe, all of which can cause breathing problems. Signs of brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome include: 

• Snorting or snoring
• Propping their mouths open with toys to try to sleep more comfortably
• Difficulty in breathing, even wheezing 
• Sleeping or lying in odd positions

Eye Problems 

One of the most common issues with flat-faced dogs’ eyes is caused by their eyelid architecture. The eyelids can move inwards (entropion) or outwards (ectropion), causing corneal injury or damage from eyelash contact. These dogs are also susceptible to tear stains.

Training and Care Tips

Let’s discuss some important aspects of flat-faced dogs.

Feeding

Choking is a problem with these Brachycephalic dogs, especially puppies; thus, they should always be observed when chewing bones. Pick larger bones, especially if your dog is greedy. You can use a mallet/mincer to break up soft bones if you can’t get your breed to eat bones.

Soft bones are like chicken bones, so they can still get calcium. Determining what works best for your dog may take some trial and error. 

Grooming

Flat-faced dogs need some grooming techniques not typical of other breeds. Let’s look at some grooming tips for your flat-faced dogs. 

• Face skin folds must be cleaned regularly since they are an ideal breeding ground for germs and yeast, which can lead to skin fold dermatitis. 
• Cleaning with a medicated shampoo to remove dirt from the skin creases. 
• Cleaning your pet’s ears with a cotton ball or gauze and distilled water once or twice a week should be enough.

Exercise

Here are some exercise tips for your flat-faced dogs. 

• Walk in the shade. 
• Rather than doing one big workout, spread it out throughout the day.
• Plan outings for the morning or evening. 
• Take pauses between sessions. 
• A playdate with another dog lasting 20-30 minutes

Conclusion

Flat-faced dogs, the scientific name Brachycephalic, have muzzles that appear flattened or squished inwards. There are dozens of Brachycephalic breeds, but some are becoming popular as pets. They were thought to be suitable for families with children. 

Take care of your dog’s health as described above. Grooming, exercise, and proper feeding are necessary to keep your dog healthy. Visit allourcreatures to learn more.