Respiratory Function Grading (RFG)
Respiratory Function Grading (RFG) is a non-invasive assessment of respiratory function in brachycephalic dogs.
It provides an objective way to understand how well an individual dog is breathing and the presence and severity of BOAS.
The dog is examined at rest, completes a three-minute trot at 6.5–8 km/h, then is examined again before an RFG grade is assigned.
Why RFG matters
Dr Arthur House on improving respiratory health for dogs today and future generations.
Australia’s Chief Assessor for the RFG Scheme
In 2021, with the support of Dogs Australia, Dr Arthur House introduced the Respiratory Function Grading Scheme in Australia and is now Australia’s Chief Assessor.
Arthur trains veterinarians to become RFG assessors and conducts RFG testing days for breeders and the public, supporting better respiratory health and reducing the prevalence of BOAS in future generations of brachycephalic dogs.
Understanding RFG grades
The Respiratory Function Grading (RFG) Scheme was developed by the University of Cambridge in collaboration with The Kennel Club in the UK. It provides a clinical tool to estimate the severity of Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS).
In a clinical setting, RFG can be used alongside a thorough history, physical examination and diagnostic imaging to help guide clinical decision-making.
For breeding dogs, the RFG Scheme is operated and administered by Dogs Australia, using the assessment protocol developed by the University of Cambridge and breeding guidelines provided by The Kennel Club, UK.
The Scheme is used to support better breeding practices by removing affected dogs from the breeding population.
Following assessment, dogs are assigned an RFG grade from 0–3. Grade 3 dogs should not be used for breeding. Grade 2 dogs should be bred with caution and only with Grade 0 or Grade 1 dogs.
Grade definitions
Grade 0
Your dog is clinically unaffected and is currently free of respiratory signs of BOAS. If your dog is under 2 years old we suggest they have an annual veterinary assessment, as BOAS can develop later in life.
Grade 1
Your dog is clinically unaffected but does have mild respiratory signs linked to BOAS. If your dog is under 2 years old we suggest they have an annual health check as progression of BOAS signs can occur. If your dog develops audible respiratory noise or has a change in ability to exercise you should seek a veterinary assessment.
Grade 2
Your dog is clinically affected (moderate) and has moderate respiratory signs of BOAS. Your dog should be assessed for veterinary treatment.
Grade 3
Your dog is clinically affected (severe) and has severe respiratory signs of BOAS. Your dog should be assessed for veterinary treatment and potentially has life threatening disease.
RFG education with Dr Arthur House
As Australia’s Chief Assessor, Arthur provides RFG education for veterinarians and breeders, covering Respiratory Function Grading, its assessment and its role in identifying BOAS.
How is it Done?
An introduction to how Respiratory Function Grading is carried out and what is assessed during the process.
Mythbusters
Arthur addresses some of the common misconceptions around Respiratory Function Grading in brachycephalic dogs.
BOAS assessment and surgery
Explore Arthur’s approach to brachycephalic airway assessment and surgery.
Official RFG Scheme
Further information for dog owners, breeders and veterinarians, including assessor training and professional resources, is available through ORCHID (Officially Registered Canine Health Information Database).