Flatfaced

Flatfaced is a descriptive term used to identify a facial profile in which the muzzle is shortened and the face appears broadly flat relative to the skull. In veterinary and breeding contexts, flatfaced describes brachycephalic animals, whose skulls have a compressed shape.

The term is most commonly applied to domestic dogs and cats. Well-known flatfaced dog breeds include pugs, English and French bulldogs, Shih Tzu, Pekingese, and Boston terriers; flatfaced cat varieties include Persian and Exotic Shorthair. The trait has been shaped by selective breeding for a compact muzzle and certain aesthetic standards.

Anatomically, flatfaced individuals have a skull morphology that shortens the maxilla and nasal bones, reducing muzzle length. This can be accompanied by shallow orbits, a broad cranial base, and dental crowding. The overall effect is a face that appears flat when viewed from the front.

Health and welfare considerations: Many flatfaced breeds are prone to brachycephalic syndrome, which can cause breathing difficulties, noisy respiration, heat intolerance, and increased anesthesia risk. Other issues include dental crowding, tear overflow, ocular irritation, and skin-fold problems. Critics argue that welfare concerns should guide breeding practices and breed standards.

See also: brachycephaly, brachycephalic syndrome, selective breeding.