Ever wondered if the air your dog breathes at high altitudes impacts their health? A groundbreaking study focusing on dogs living approximately 1,535 meters above sea level has revealed surprising differences in blood gas levels between brachycephalic (short-nosed) and nonbrachycephalic (long-nosed and medium-nosed) breeds.

Researchers embarked on a mission to define the normal ranges for arterial blood gas (aBG) measurements in healthy, nonsedated dogs of different head shapes living at high altitudes. The study, involving 120 nonbrachycephalic and 20 brachycephalic dogs, aimed to understand how altitude affects these canine companions.

The findings were eye-opening. While establishing the normal aBG values for nonbrachycephalic dogs, such as the pH, oxygen and carbon dioxide levels, and blood pressure, it became clear that dogs with shorter noses faced more challenges in oxygenation at high elevations. Brachycephalic dogs showed significantly lower oxygen levels in their blood and higher total hemoglobin concentrations, indicating a strain in their ability to breathe and oxygenate their blood effectively compared to their long-nosed counterparts.

This study not only provides invaluable data for pet owners living in higher altitudes but also raises a red flag for the owners of brachycephalic breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boston Terriers. The message is clear: the air up here affects our furry friends differently, and understanding these differences is crucial for their health and well-being. As we dive deeper into the needs of our pets based on their breed and living conditions, this research underscores the importance of tailored veterinary care that considers the unique challenges faced by our canine companions at altitude.

Read full article here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38320399/