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Are you a new English Bulldog pet parent? If you’ve recently adopted an English Bulldog, you may have many questions about him! Many pet parents, and people, often wonder if English Bulldogs are born with tails or whether their tails are docked.
We’ll take a look at that question in this article, along with other information about your English Bulldog’s tail! Let’s get started!
Are English Bulldogs Born with Tails, or are Their Tails Docked?
The answer is that, yes, English Bulldogs are born with tails. However, the tail type will depend on the dog’s genetics. English Bulldogs do not have their tails docked, which is very good news!
English Bulldogs can have various types of tails. Some dogs have short, bobtails, while others may have straight or curvy tails. And there are even some English Bulldogs that have a wavy tail, though these are not very common.
So, English Bulldogs naturally have short tails. However, you can understand why some people wonder if the dogs have docked tails. The English Bulldogs who have short, stubby tails do look as if their tails were docked.
Do Some English Bulldogs Have Long Tails?
The answer to this question is yes! Some English Bulldogs do have long tails. So, if your English Bulldog has a long tail, it could have been the result of his breeding. But that doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong! It only means that your dog’s ancestors probably had long tails, too. While this could be a sign of cross-breeding, it may not be the reason for the dog’s long tail. He may just have it naturally due to genetics.
So, if your English Bulldog has a longer tail, don’t worry! It doesn’t mean he was badly bred. It could be a natural genetic trait.
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Ask a Vet Live NowWhat Is Tail Docking?
Now, you may be wondering what tail docking is. We’ll explain this, too. Tail docking is a medical procedure that is done to cut the tail short or even to remove the entire tail. This procedure is sometimes done for medical reasons. However, there are some who practice tail docking as a way to meet certain fashionable criteria for their dog.
What many people may not realize is that tail docking is illegal in many states and countries around the world. In the US, there are 21 states that make it illegal to dock a dog’s tail. In some states, the procedure may be done but only for medical reasons.
The problem with tail docking is that the procedure can be quite stressful and painful for the dog. Remove or drastically shortening a tail can affect the dog’s mood, sense of balance, and more.
English Bulldogs & Tail Docking
There are some medical problems that may lead an English Bulldog to require tail docking. For instance, in older English Bulldogs, a corkscrew tail may become stiff and tighten up into a bun shape. This causes the tail to pull hard up to the dog’s rear end. If this “bun” is too tight, it can lead to skin infections and other problems. It’s also not comfortable for the dog. For these reasons, a vet may decide it’s essential to dock the tail to improve the dog’s health and comfort.
Other tail issues in English Bulldogs can include difficulty breathing, skin problems, hip dysplasia, and more. What’s more, an English Bulldog can also develop problems with the anal glands due to a problematic tail. A tail that sits too close to the skin can cause the glands to become compacted, which can lead to pain, odor, and other problems. This can only be treated by a vet.
Another problem with English Bulldog tails involves a flap of skin under the tail. This can collect dirt and debris and then become infected if not cleaned out regularly and properly.
In addition, an English Bulldog’s tail can become ingrown, develop tail fold dermatitis, and more.
So, it is true that some English Bulldogs have their tails docked; however, this is only done for medical purposes, not cosmetic reasons.
Are English Bulldogs Born Without Tails?
Just like other dogs, English Bulldogs are born with tails. As noted earlier, the dogs’ tails will vary, depending on their genetics. In most cases, however, English Bulldogs are born with short tails.
What Types of Tails are Common in English Bulldogs?
Here are some of the most common tail-types in English Bulldogs:
Straight tails: this is the most common and most desirable tail type in English Bulldogs. You may even hear this type of tail referred to as the “pump-handle tail.” This tail hangs down straight, tapering to a point at the end. These tails are usually short.
Corkscrew tails: this tail type looks very much like a corkscrew, which is somewhat coiled. When puppies are born, they may have a straight tail; however, as they grow up, the tail may turn into a corkscrew tail.
Long, wavy tails: English Bulldogs may also be born with a long, wavy tail. This is rarer, however. These tails may be long and slender, with a bit of a wave to them. This is seen as a problem in the breed by the American Kennel Club. However, many breeders say this type of tail is healthier than the corkscrew tail.
How to Care for Your English Bulldog’s Tail
Your English Bulldog’s tail area must be kept clean on a regular basis. This is especially true for dogs that have a corkscrew tail. If these areas are not kept clean, the dog can develop skin problems, infections, and more. This is not comfortable or healthy for your fur baby.
So, be sure to always wipe off debris and other stuff with baby wipes or a warm, damp washcloth. When you’re done cleaning the area, be sure to wipe it dry with a towel.
If you ever notice any foul odors coming from your dog’s tail end, then it’s time to see if the vet. Your dog may have developed irritation, an infection, or another medical problem.
So, there you have it! English Bulldogs are born with tails, which are usually short and can come in a variety of types. And remember to always keep your dog’s tail end clean. If your fur baby does develop any problem in the tail area, then be sure to see the vet right away. You and your dog will feel much better and be happier, too!
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Kyoko
Kyoko is from a family of 3 and moved to New York with her parents and siblings when she was 13. Kyoko is fond of spending a great amount of time with pets, specifically her beagle Luna and cat Missy. Her boyfriend often complains that she spends too much time giving attention to their animals. Kyoko has written dozens of articles concerning pets and is aiming at owning a pet shop one day!
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