The Sleep Struggles of Flat-Faced Dogs: Study Reveals Harmful Effects

A study conducted by researchers from Hungary's Eötvös Loránd University found that the distinctive facial features of flat-faced dogs, such as French bulldogs, may be affecting their sleep quality. Due to their narrow nostrils and smaller airways, these dogs are prone to breathing difficulties. The study revealed that flat-faced dogs slept more during the day, possibly compensating for insufficient sleep at night. However, EEG patterns showed decreased beta waves and increased delta waves during REM sleep, which have been associated with poorer learning in dogs and loss of white matter in humans. The researchers suggested that breeding for brachycephalic heads may lead to potentially harmful changes in brain function.