Dog external nares resection is a surgery removing a triangle-shaped slice of tissue and cartilage from the nostrils.
For your darling pooch, this means removing breathing restrictions for better airflow.
What Is the External Nares in Dogs? 
The two external nares are the dog’s nostrils that extend from the nasal cavity to the outside.
Air also enters from these openings. Sometimes, these airways are obstructed and some dogs may need medical intervention.
What Is a Dog External Nares Resection?
Specifically, dog external nares resection involves the removal of a portion of each nostril’s outer fold. This procedure lessens the obstructed airflow. It will widen the nostril opening, allowing your dog to breathe more easily through their nose.
Why Do Dogs Need External Nares Resections?
This surgery is needed when the dog has stenotic nares.
This means that the dog has narrowed or constricted nostrils which makes breathing more challenging, leading to excessive panting and open-mouth breathing.
This condition is genetic.
Stenotic nares are malformations present at birth due to the selective breeding of dogs with short noses. Because of the inherent form of their face, nose, and muzzle, certain dog breeds are more likely to experience breathing obstructions.
Commonly, these breeds include:
Boston terrier - Pekingese
- Shih Tzu
- Boxer
- French bulldog
- English bulldog
- Pug
Although some other breeds may also be afflicted by such conditions, these dogs’ breeding has resulted in their naturally short wrinkled noses and muzzles.
These short passages frequently make it challenging for these breeds to breathe normally.
Bacteria, skin diseases, eye irritations, or infections caused by the skin folds forcing fur or eyelashes into your dog’s eyes are further issues with these nasal folds.
Stenotic nares are problematic in the long run. Higher breathing effort may result from increased resistance.
Eventually, the airway may collapse, often resulting in death.
Is External Nares Resection Safe and Effective?
Yes. Dog external nares resection is safe if done by an experienced veterinarian.
If your primary care practice is not equipped to do a nasal fold resection, your veterinarian should be able to recommend a surgeon.
Removing the nasal folds is an invasive surgery.
General anesthesia will be administered to your dog.
Nasal fold resections in dogs are typically quite successful and highly effective as well.
After surgery, there may still be a few folds, but they will be minor and easy to clean. Your veterinarian can offer skin-safe anti-bacterial wipes or prescription cleaning wipes to keep the surfaces between the folds clean and free of germs.
Since the nasal folds are in a sensitive location, your dog may experience pain and fatigue following the surgery. However, your veterinarian will provide you with detailed aftercare recommendations.
Within two weeks, the resection should be healed.
How Much Does a Dog External Nares Resection Cost?
The price for a dog external nares resection depends on multiple factors. Please contact us for an estimate. 
X-rays may be required before surgery for an additional cost.
Final Thoughts
Before getting a dog, it is recommended that you research the breed thoroughly so you are prepared to care for your canine companion.
You can also know it well beforehand and have the confidence to care for the dog.
Remember! Your pets depend on you to give them proper care. We’re here to help guide you on how to do just that.
If you need more info about dog external nares resection or would like an estimate, contact us now.
