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Soft palate disorders are usually congenital defects of the fleshy tissue at the back of the throat that separates the oral and nasal cavities. Dogs with elongated palates frequently do not have clinical signs until 2 or 3 years of age. Elongated soft palate are predominantly seen in brachycephalic, short-faced breeds of dog such as English bulldogs, Boston Terriers and Pugs.

Signs to watch for:

• Puppies that dribble milk from their noses when feeding
• Thin and poorly nourished pups
• Coughing and gagging

Treatment:
Young dogs with elongated soft palates should be treated surgically between 4 and 24 months of age, by shortening the palate to a more normal length. This can be achieved using a scalpel or a laser. Traumatic injuries to the palate should be repaired shortly after the injury, ensuring that any perforating material is not left behind in the throat or neck to cause future problems.