Are English Bulldogs naturally tailless?

As proud caretakers of an English Bulldog, we’ve been frequently asked if we’ve docked and trimmed our pup’s tail. Let me clarify: we didn’t have our furry companion’s tail surgically docked. Not only is it unlawful in both the United States and the United Kingdom, but it’s also excruciatingly painful for the dog. Now, curious minds may wonder whether or not our English Bulldog was born sans tail. Fear not, for I’m here to provide the answer to this frequently posed question.

So, can you tell if a newborn English Bulldog comes equipped with a tail or not? Well, similar to other members of the canine family, ancient English Bulldogs were born with tails. Some may have short, bobbed tails that hang low and wrap around the spine to the base of their bodies. Occasionally, English Bulldog tails will curl in a small corkscrew shape or be straight at other times. In rare cases, their tails may even be longer and wavy.

However, if you come across a dog that resembles an English Bulldog but sports a curly or wavy tail, it may be a result of crossbreeding.

✨ Are English Bulldogs subjected to tail docking or cutting?

The answer is a resounding no. In fact, these lovable canines come equipped with a small, curly tail that adds to their distinct charm.

It’s a widespread misconception that English Bulldogs are naturally born with truncated tails, leading many to believe that their stumpy bodies are a result of such cosmetic surgeries. However, let me put an end to this fallacy once and for all: English Bulldog tails are not amputated for aesthetic purposes.

✨ Let’s talk about English Bulldog tails, shall we?

Although every English Bulldog has a tail, the appearance of said tail varies significantly from one pooch to another. Some may have very short “bobs” of tail, while others may not have much of a tail at all.

While it’s true that canines of all breeds come equipped with tails, the prominence of said tail varies. Some Old English Bulldogs may have tails on the shorter side, while others, depending on their build, may have tails of medium-length. However, it’s also possible to come across an English Bulldog without a tail, which may be the result of a medically required tail docking procedure.

✨ Are all English Bulldogs born tailless?

Absolutely not! However, most English Bulldogs are born with a tail that varies in length, depending on the type of tail they were born with.

In fact, there are three distinct tail shapes that an English Bulldog pup may possess at birth. The first is the straight tail, also known as a pump-handle tail, which is a short, drooping tail with a pointed tip. The American Kennel Association recognizes the rounded appearance of this tail, which is quite common among bulldogs. Although some tails may have an excessively high set and upward profile, it’s still a typical and acceptable variation despite being seen as a “defect.”

The second unique tail shape is the corkscrew curl, which perfectly mimics the breed’s name. While a puppy’s tail is more malleable than an adult dog’s tail, it becomes more rigid and takes on a bun-like shape as the dog grows older.

Lastly, while wavy or long tails may be less common and sometimes considered “defective” by breeders, studies show that they can actually be beneficial for the dog’s health and make wagging easier.

It’s important to note that variations in tail length and thickness are to be expected because no two English Bulldogs are alike.

✨ What about English Bulldogs with long tails, you may ask?

Well, it’s not uncommon to come across an English Bulldog with a longer tail. These lengthy tails may be a result of selective breeding, although hybridization is typically not the reason behind it.

Now, let’s delve into the topic of tail docking, which is a subject near and dear to my heart. Tail docking is a surgical procedure that involves shortening or removing a dog’s tail (although it is now illegal in many countries for cosmetic purposes).

Overbreeding has resulted in a slew of issues for English Bulldogs, one of which is a predisposition to health problems due to their short tails. As elderly English Bulldogs age, their corkscrew tail stiffens into a bun-like shape that can sit flat on the top of their rump. Veterinarians may recommend docking to prevent future health problems and discomfort for the dog if this bun becomes too tight and infections develop, leading to sores and other skin issues.

✨ How common is it to see English Bulldog tails docked?

While it does happen on occasion, tail docking is only performed for medical reasons and never for cosmetic purposes.

If you’re considering having your English Bulldog’s tail docked, it’s important to first consult with your veterinarian about the potential benefits and risks. The procedure can be uncomfortable and stressful for your furry friend, potentially affecting their mood and even their sense of balance.

❂ Why would anyone consider amputating their beloved dog’s tail?

I was taken aback to discover that tail docking is not a modern practice. The earliest recorded instance of this procedure dates back to the time of the Ancient Romans. According to my research, shepherds used to dock their dogs’ tails as a means of preventing the spread of rabies, although I can’t quite understand why.

In more recent times, hunting dogs’ tails were docked to prevent injury while chasing and catching prey. This rationale makes more sense to me, as approximately 14% of working dogs suffer tail injuries each year (source).

Furthermore, some breeders believe that removing a dog’s tail enhances their appearance. A veterinarian can perform the procedure, or an elastic band can be used to cut off the artery at the base of the tail. However, it’s important to remember that tail docking is now illegal in many countries and should only be performed for medical reasons, never for cosmetic purposes.

❂ Is tail docking a painful experience for dogs?

Those in favor of tail docking often argue that young puppies’ nervous systems aren’t developed enough for them to feel any pain during the procedure. However, the ethical implications of this argument are up for debate.

Legal restrictions in the United Kingdom and the United States prohibit tail docking, except for certain working breeds. It’s important to note that tail docking should never be performed solely for aesthetic purposes, such as making an English Bulldog look more appealing.

Due to their inbreeding history, Old English Bulldogs are prone to a variety of health issues, including respiratory problems, skin diseases, and hip dysplasia. English Bulldogs’ tails can also cause complications, with the curls in their tails becoming rigid and immobile due to their short length. This can leave them more susceptible to infections in the skin folds, which can be difficult to clean.

Additionally, English Bulldogs are prone to anal gland problems, which can cause discomfort and foul odors that may require medical treatment. A “tail pocket” behind the tail is another common problem area that often goes unnoticed.

Screw tail (infection around the skin folds of the tail), ingrown tails, tail fold dermatitis, and intertrigo are all issues that Bulldogs may experience due to tight skin folds trapping dirt and sweat, leading to infections and fungal growth.

While antiseptic creams may temporarily treat these conditions, they are likely to recur unless the affected portions of the tail are surgically removed.

❂ What exactly is an English Bulldog’s tail pocket?

While not all English Bulldogs have them, a “tail pocket” is a skin fold that exists directly under their tail and usually develops during the first few months of a dog’s life. Once present, it will remain for the rest of their life.

Due to its discreet location, it’s not uncommon for the tail pocket to collect dead skin, dirt, and other debris, potentially leading to infection and discomfort.

If your English Bulldog has a tail pocket, it’s important to keep it clean. Since your dog may not be able to reach it, it’s recommended to wash it with soap and water once a week. Use a disinfectant wipe to remove any excess moisture.

If your dog is unable to reach its tail, be sure to wipe the underside of their tail as well. It’s important to inform your groomer to clean the tail pocket during regular grooming appointments.

If your dog develops an infection in their tail pocket, your veterinarian can provide appropriate treatments and recommendations to prevent future occurrences.

✨ Have you ever encountered an American Bulldog?

Let me share some interesting facts about the American Bulldog with you. While the breed shares ancestry with the English Bulldog, it is notably larger and more towering in stature. Compared to the stockier, shorter English Bulldog, American Bulldogs have longer legs and muzzles, resembling Pit Bull Terriers in appearance.

American Bulldogs can be further categorized into two types: Scott bulldogs (also known as “performance” or “standard” bulldogs), which have longer muzzles like Pit Bull Terriers, and Johnson Bulldogs (often referred to as “classic” or “bully” types), which resemble traditional English Bulldogs but with shorter noses.

The tail of an American Bulldog differs greatly from that of an English Bulldog. It’s thicker at the base and tapers to a point, making it considerably longer and stronger. While it typically hangs down, it may be lifted when the dog is happy or excited and often takes on the shape of a pump handle.

Curly or kinked tails are common in American Bulldogs, with severe cases resulting in the tail twisting over the dog’s back. However, such tails are generally considered unappealing in the show ring, despite being a typical and healthy variation of the straight tail.

✨ Conclusion

So, do English Bulldogs have tails or not?

The answer is yes, all Old English Bulldogs have tails, but the length and shape can vary significantly between individual dogs.

While some breeds have tails as long as a person’s arm, others have tails so small that they are concealed by their fur. Some owners prefer a naturally bobbed tail, while others may opt for tail trimming for medical reasons. Short-tailed dogs are also becoming more popular.

Regardless of tail length, it’s important to keep your English Bulldog’s tail clean and check for any signs of infection or discomfort. If you have any concerns about your dog’s tail, consult with your veterinarian for proper care and treatment.