So what can you do to make sure Claybourne is breathing easy. These three characteristics make it more difficult for these dogs to breathe, especially in hot weather. If you own or are thinking about owning one of these breeds, their short faces give them some specific health concerns and needs; ones that a potential owner must be aware of in order to keep their new friend keely and healthy. In other words, they have a flat face, which gives them that characteristic smooshed look. What do breeds such as the English bulldog, Boston Terrier, Pekinese and Pug have in com besides their small size and cute factor.

This is also what causes the snorting sound that breeds like the pug have become famous for. Of the first things a potential owner should be aware is the breathing problems these breeds can have. While this face has people split over calling it "ugly" or "irresistibly cute", one thing that isn't under debate.

They are all what is known as brachycephalic, which means "short headed" in Greek.

This is due to their flat face, which can cause them to have small nostrils, a small windpipe and an elongated soft palate.