flatnosed

Flatnosed is an adjective used to describe a nose that appears flattened or shortened in profile, often with a broader nasal bridge and a shortened nasal length relative to typical morphology. The term is descriptive rather than diagnostic and is used across disciplines such as medicine, anatomy, and veterinary science to characterize facial structure.

In veterinary contexts, flatnosed or brachycephalic breeds include bulldogs, pugs, Pekingese, Shih Tzu, and Boxers; these dogs commonly exhibit a shortened muzzle and flattened nasal passages. The trait is associated with health issues such as reduced airway efficiency, heat sensitivity, dental crowding, and ocular problems. Welfare groups emphasize health and welfare considerations when discussing breeding standards and breed characteristics.

When describing humans, the term can raise concerns about stigma and is generally avoided in medical descriptions except as a neutral descriptor in anthropological or forensic contexts. Modern usage favors precise measurements and nonjudgmental terminology rather than subjective labels.

Related terms include brachycephaly and nasal flattening; the concept is discussed in anatomy, veterinary medicine, and design where nasal form influences airflow and acoustics. The term flatnosed appears mainly in descriptive literature and breed guides rather than formal medical classifications.