20/08/2026
We have lots of frenchie customers that come and visit us in the salon. Please make sure you’re aware how your baby is breathing. With owning frenchies myself and knowing any extra help with their breathing is crucial to them having a happy life.
I got both my frenchies nares widened at time of their de-sexing, as recommend by my veterinarian. It’s a simple operation and helps them considerably.
Remember frenchies are a unique (expensive) and high maintenance dog and if you’re looking at getting one, please do research (like any dog) and ensure your baby can breathe and have a happy life. 💖 (see comments for a cute photo of my babies- any excuse 🤭)
HOW OPEN ARE YOUR FRENCHIE’S NARES?
A French Bulldog’s nostrils, known as nares, can give you an important first indication of how freely air can enter their nose.
Healthy nares should be visibly open and have a rounded or kidney-shaped opening. When the nostrils are narrow, pinched or almost closed, the dog must work harder to draw air through its nose. This narrowing is called stenotic nares and can contribute to Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome, commonly known as BOAS.
The middle column in the original guide shows French Bulldog nares progressing from open through to severe stenosis.
Nares are one part of the Respiratory Function Testing performed by Dr Arthur House. The assessment also considers the dog’s breathing sounds and respiratory function before and after exercise. A lovely open nose does not guarantee that a Frenchie is free from BOAS, because obstruction can also occur further inside the airway, but it is still an important feature to look for.
When choosing a French Bulldog, look closely at both parents. Ask whether they have undergone respiratory function testing and whether either parent has ever required BOAS surgery. The Royal Kennel Club also advises puppy buyers to look for parents with open, kidney-shaped nostrils and recommends respiratory function grading for breeding dogs.
At Unique French Bulldogs, we have spent many years selecting for longer noses, visibly open nares and better respiratory health. We do not breed from dogs that have required BOAS surgery. Health must be considered before colour, fashion or an extremely flat face.
Choose the breeder carefully, because your Frenchie will live with that breeder’s decisions for life.
Read more about Respiratory Function Grading and what to look for when choosing a flat-faced puppy.
https://www.uniquefrenchbulldogs.com
Phone: 0432185833
Victorian Breeder Source Number: BR101372