Do English Bulldogs have tails? Well…If you’ve ever looked at an English Bulldog and wondered whether they have tails – you’re not alone. A lot of people assume these chunky dogs are completely tail-less. But here’s the thing: English Bulldogs do have tails. They’re just a lot smaller and often kind of hidden in all that adorable wrinkly bulk.
In this post, we’ll cover what kind of tails English Bulldogs actually have, how they compare to breeds like French Bulldogs and Boston Terriers, why bulldog tails can be a health concern, and how to properly clean and care for them.
So, Do English Bulldogs Have Tails?
Yep, they absolutely do.
But they’re not your standard dog tails. English Bulldogs usually have one of three types:
- Screw tail (also called corkscrew tail)
- Straight tail (short and stubby)
- Wavy tail
Most commonly, you’ll see a screw tail—that tight, twisted little nub that sort of looks like a cinnamon roll squished into their backside. Some bulldogs have a straight tail that points down, and it’s so close to their body that it’s barely noticeable.
None of these tails are docked (as in surgically removed). They’re naturally that way, which is just part of the breed standard for English Bulldogs. But while they may be cute, those little tails can actually cause big problems if you’re not careful.
What About French Bulldogs? Do They Have Tails?
French Bulldogs are another breed that often makes people ask the same question. And just like their English cousins, French Bulldogs do have tails—they’re just very short, usually straight or slightly screwed, and naturally stubby.
Other breeds that are often born with tiny, almost invisible tails include:
- Boston Terriers
- Pembroke Welsh Corgis
- Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dogs
- French Bulldogs
- Brittany Spaniels (sometimes)
Again, these dogs aren’t missing tails because of docking. They’re just genetically built that way. But just like with English Bulldogs, the compact size and structure of the tail area can cause health issues if you don’t keep an eye on it.
Why Bulldog Tails Can Be a Problem
Now here’s the part a lot of new bulldog owners don’t expect: bulldog tails—especially screw tails—can get super gross if you don’t clean them regularly. They represent perfect spots for bacterial growth. The feces can easily stay stuck in the pocket which can become infected and smelly.
Why? Because their tails are often tucked into deep folds of skin. Moisture, dirt, and bacteria love to hide out in there, turning that tail pocket into a breeding ground for infections. The area can become:
- Red
- Smelly
- Itchy
- Painful
In some cases, their tail pocket can become so painful that your dog would refuse going to the toilet. As you may guess, this triggers other problems such as constipation, or nervousness.
And once it gets infected, it’s tough to treat. Some bulldogs even need surgery to remove their tail if the infections get too severe. It’s called a tail amputation, and it sounds dramatic—but sometimes it’s the only solution for chronic tail pocket infections.
What’s a Tail Pocket on English Bulldogs?
Good question. A tail pocket is basically a wrinkle or indentation under the tail, especially common in bulldogs with screw tails. It’s kind of like a belly button, but on their butt—and you need to treat it with the same kind of hygiene.
Not all English Bulldogs have deep tail pockets, but many do. Some are born with a shallow one, and it gets deeper as they age. Others might have no pocket at all.
If your bulldog has one, you’ll need to clean it regularly, because if you don’t, it’s only a matter of time before you’re dealing with irritation, infection, or a full-on trip to the vet.
How to Clean an English Bulldog’s Tail (And Tail Pocket)
Tail care might not sound glamorous, but it’s part of being a bulldog parent. And it’s not hard—just needs consistency.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Bulldog’s Tail:
- Check it daily.
Lift the tail gently and peek underneath. Look for redness, gunk, or a bad smell. That’s a sign it’s cleaning time. - Use dog-safe wipes or a soft cloth.
Go for unscented baby wipes, or vet-approved pet wipes. Gently clean the tail area and tail pocket if one’s present. - Dry thoroughly.
Moisture = bacteria. Always dry the area with a soft towel or cotton pad. - Apply a soothing balm (if needed).
If the skin looks irritated, you can use a vet-recommended balm or ointment. Some people use coconut oil or diaper rash creams, but always check with your vet first. - Repeat a few times a week (or daily, if needed).
Some bulldogs need daily cleaning. Others are fine with 2-3 times a week. It depends on your dog’s tail type and skin sensitivity.
Signs of a Tail Infection in Bulldogs
If you’re not sure whether your bulldog’s tail is healthy or not, watch for these warning signs:
- A foul odor coming from under the tail
- Red, inflamed skin around the tail pocket
- Your dog scooting their butt on the floor
- Excessive licking or biting at the tail
- Pus or discharge in the area
- Crying or whining when you touch the tail
Any of these signs mean it’s time for a vet visit. Don’t try to fix a full-blown infection on your own—some need antibiotics or medicated ointments to clear up.
Are Some Bulldogs More Prone to Tail Problems?
Yes—bulldogs with screw tails and deep tail pockets are definitely more prone to infections. The tighter and more curled the tail, the more it traps dirt and moisture.
Also, overweight bulldogs are more likely to develop skin folds and pocket issues. Extra rolls mean extra spots for bacteria to hang out. Keeping your bulldog at a healthy weight helps prevent a lot of skin and tail issues.
Need Bulldog Tail Care Products?
Check out pet-safe wipes, skin balms, and cleaning solutions made for sensitive areas. Always pick gentle, fragrance-free options—and when in doubt, ask your vet.
Here is the list of health and care products for bulldogs we recommend you to check:
1- “Silky Paws” balm by English Bulldog Shop. This dog paw balm is perfect for daily use. You can apply it through all seasons.
2- English Bulldog Wrinkle Cleaning Wipes. These wipes are must-have. They represent an ideal product for cleaning their tail pocket area especially when your dog goes to the potty.
3- Ear Cleansing Solution for English Bulldogs. Since English bulldogs have sensitive ears, you need to weekly clean them with this solution.
4- 2-in-1 Shampoo and Conditioner for English Bulldogs. Great for washing the irritated tail area. Since it contains a Coconut oil, your dog will get an antibacterial effect as well.
Can a Bulldog’s Tail Be Removed?
In some severe cases, yes. If a bulldog suffers from chronic infections that don’t respond to treatment, vets might recommend tail amputation surgery. It’s not common, but it does happen.
Most vets try every other option first—cleaning, antibiotics, medicated wipes, ointments, etc. But if the tail is so tightly screwed that it causes constant pain and infection, removing it can actually improve your dog’s quality of life.
Don’t stress too much though—most bulldogs never need this. With regular cleaning and good hygiene, you can avoid it.
Yes, Bulldogs Have Tails—And They Need Your Help
So, to answer the question once and for all: Yes, English Bulldogs have tails. They might be small, they might be curly, but they’re definitely there.
And just like the rest of your pup, those tails need care. Especially if they’ve got a deep tail pocket or a tight screw tail that makes cleaning tricky. Take a few minutes a week to clean under the tail, keep the area dry, and stay on the lookout for signs of irritation or infection.
French Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, and other short-tailed breeds face the same issues. Their little nubs may look harmless, but they can be high-maintenance if you don’t stay on top of hygiene.
