French Bulldogs are one of the most popular breeds of domestic dogs in the world.
Even if you’ve seen one of these adorable canines before, you may still be wondering: “do French Bulldogs have tails?” Well, the answer is yes, French bulldogs do have tails!
In this blog post, we’ll dig deeper into French Bulldog tails. We’ll examine tail pocket infections, itchy skin caused by a tail infection, tail shapes, and much more!
We’ll also cover what types of care and attention a French Bulldog’s tail needs so that Frenchie owners can give their babies everything they need to stay happy and healthy.
Read on to learn more about these lovable pooches!
Table of Contents
What Do French Bulldog Tails Look Like?
French Bulldog’s tails are naturally short, and they come in three shapes:
- A straight tail (straight tails were more common in the 1800s)
- Screw-shaped/screw tails
- Thick tail with a very fine tip
The screw-shaped tail is more prone to certain health issues such as hemivertebrae.
Interestingly enough, French Bulldogs used to have a short-drop tail that was straight back in the 19th century. Their tails were also longer. Therefore, in the 1890s, French Bulldogs did not have some of the health concerns they do now.
In 2010 the National Kennel Club launched a scheme in the UK to shift from screw tails to straight tails.
The American Kennel Club breed standard is that they have a straight tail or a screw tail. The tail should be set low on the rear, and it should be short.
What was the reason for the shift in tail length?
French Bulldogs were bred for ratting, meaning they used to be rat catchers.
People then decided to make their tails shorter through selective breeding to prevent rat bites to their tails. The short tails also gave French Bulldogs an increase in speed.
Although French Bulldogs are no longer bred for ratting, you might notice that your French Bulldog goes a little crazy when they see or smell a rat.
These days the reason for the short tails is purely cosmetic.
What Health Issues Are Related To A Frenchie’s Tail?
You might be thinking that a shorter tail means fewer issues. Well….NO.
Many French Bulldogs have health issues related to their tails and tail pockets.
What is a tail pocket exactly? It’s a little wrinkle under the tail, like the wrinkles people get on their faces.
Frenchie puppies usually develop a tail pocket around six months old. Some French Bulldogs don’t develop one at all, but this is rare.
The most common problems are tail injuries, sunburn (mainly in French Bulldogs with white tails), and tail infections.
Tail injuries can occur when the dog’s tail is pulled or hit.
This can cause the tail to bleed or become infected.
Tail infections are often caused by bacteria that live on the skin, such as in a dirty tail pocket. This is common when a pooch’s pocket is hard to clean.
These bacteria can cause the tail to become red, swollen, and painful. If your French Bulldog has a tail injury or infection, it’s important to see a veterinarian right away.
Symptoms of tail pocket infections are swelling of the area, oozing pus, and usually a foul odor. You might see your French Bulldog trying to rub or scoot its backside along the floor as the skin will probably be very itchy.
Hemivertebrae
This is a genetic condition, and it’s caused by the vertebrae of the spine being pushed together in order to get that short tail French Bulldogs are known for.
This health condition can cause issues with walking, incontinence, and limb paralysis. hemivertebrae is more common in older French Bulldogs. The best way of checking for it is via an x-ray.
If you have any other Frenchie queries, like ‘are French Bulldogs good family dogs?’, then be sure to check out our full collection of guides. We can tell you everything you need to know about this loveable pooch.
What Are The Treatments For A Frenchie’s Tail Issues?
Treating hemivertebrae often involves surgery. However, your vet may suggest other options, such as anti-inflammatory painkillers.
This condition is not preventable, so there is nothing pet owners can do to stop this from happening- SAD FACE.
If your French Bulldog has an infected tail pocket, you’ll need a veterinarian to treat the area. Your pooch will also be put on antibiotics.
You need to clean the pocket and dry it frequently. Fragrance-free and mild baby wipes are the best- or you can ask your vet for their opinion. You can use a wet cloth too.
Tail infections are a completely preventable condition.
To prevent sunburns, pet owners should dab a little sunblock with zinc oxide on the area.
Maintaining A Frenchie’s Tail
If you are thinking of getting a French Bulldog, be aware that their short tails require some special care.
Here are some tips on how to keep your French Bulldog’s tail healthy and looking its best:
- Check for any signs of irritation or discomfort around the base of the tail.
- Keep the area around the tail clean and free from debris or dirt.
- Keep the tail pocket dry.
- If you notice any unusual bumps or growths on the tail, have them examined by a vet.
- Baths with medical shampoo will help irritated tails.
Can A French Bulldog Tail Wag?
Unfortunately, the tail of the French Bulldog is just way too short to wag. I know! Tail wagging is how you tell if they’re happy or not. You’ll just have to rely on their behavior as a way to tell how they’re feeling. There are a few French Bulldogs that have tails that can wag a little, but it is rare.
FAQs
Is a French bulldog born with no tail?
No. French bulldogs are born with tails. They are born with short and stumpy tails. They don’t need their tails docked as they already have very short tails.
Why do they cut French Bulldogs’ tails off?
Some breeders cut the tails off French Bulldogs for cosmetic reasons which is now usually regarded as being cruel. Tail docking is mostly done by people who like to show their dogs.
They consider it as “tidying up” the tail. There are laws on tail docking for cosmetic reasons, so it should be completely avoided.
Why does my French Bulldog have a tail?
Like all other dogs, French Bulldogs have tails to help them maintain their balance. French Bulldogs’ tails may be short, but they still come in handy!
Frenchie Tail Conclusion
In conclusion, French Bulldogs are born with tails, but they are much shorter than the tails of other dog breeds.
Their short tails contribute to their unique physical appearance and cute personalities. While French Bulldogs can be difficult to care for due to their delicate health needs and strong-willed natures, many owners find them incredibly lovable companions who bring joy and laughter into their lives every day.
If you’re wondering whether or not a French Bulldog would be a good fit for your home, visit our website to research the breed further before deciding if this pup is right for you!