New injection offers hope for flat-faced dogs struggling to breathe
Flat-faced dog breeds like pugs, bulldogs, and French bulldogs often face serious breathing challenges due to their unique anatomy. A condition called Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) affects nearly half of these dogs, making everyday activities like walking, eating, and sleeping difficult. In severe cases, BOAS can shorten a dog’s life by up to four years.
Traditional treatment for BOAS has relied on surgery to widen nostrils and remove excess throat tissue. While helpful, surgery is invasive, carries risks, and doesn’t always fully resolve breathing issues. Many dogs continue to struggle even after procedures.
Australian scientists have developed a promising alternative: an injectable therapy called Snoretox-1. Created through a collaboration between Melbourne-based biotech company Snoretox and RMIT University, Snoretox-1 is designed to target the muscles involved in breathing obstruction.
In an early clinical trial, six dogs diagnosed with BOAS received two injections of Snoretox-1 under the tongue while sedated. Owners reported noticeable improvements within just 10 days, including reduced breathing noise and less effort during walks. One pug named Pugtato, who had lost weight and struggled to breathe despite prior surgery, showed significant improvement after receiving the treatment.
The therapy works as a targeted neuromuscular stimulant, helping to improve muscle function in the floor of the mouth to support better airflow. Researchers emphasize that Snoretox-1 is not a cure but offers a less-invasive option for managing BOAS symptoms, particularly for dogs who are poor surgical candidates or have not responded well to traditional procedures.
Snoretox has shared findings from the pilot study in The Veterinary Journal and plans to present the research at major veterinary conferences in 2026, including the ACVIM Forum in Seattle and the ECVS Annual Scientific Meeting in Liverpool. The company also received the 2025 Innovation Award at the Animal Health Summit in Kansas City for its work on BOAS treatment.
While further studies are needed to confirm long-term effectiveness and safety, Snoretox-1 represents a significant step forward in improving quality of life for flat-faced dogs. For owners watching their pets struggle to breathe, this injectable therapy offers new hope for easier, more comfortable days ahead.