Bulldogs are well-known for their permanently grumpy expressions, stocky and strong builds, and snubbed noses. However, the Bulldog's tail is still another bodily component that is very recognized. So, let us discuss all about bulldog tails and their types.
Usually, Bulldogs have four types of tails, including curly, corkscrew, wavy, and straight/long tails. Bulldogs with straight and curly tails are most common and most admired by the Bulldog community.
There is no denying that English Bulldogs have tails, but those tails can come in a few distinct varieties, and some of those variations have a more pronounced appearance than others. Unfortunately, certain types of tails have also been linked to major health concerns.
4 Most Common Bulldog Tail Types
1. Curly Tail
This bulldog tail swirls loosely like a pig's tail. People have the misconception that it also curls back on itself as Basenji does. This particular tail form is becoming less desirable for breeders. They will avoid mating litters with dogs who have this sort of tail, and as a result, it is possible that you will never see a bulldog with a tail like that, although it is not impossible.
2. Corkscrew Tail
Corkscrew tails appear wrapped at birth, but they are still flexible. As the Bulldog puppies mature, their tails will become permanently entangled in the same position, giving them the appearance of cinnamon rolls that have been affixed to the rear ends of Bulldogs.
3. Wavy Tails
The American Kennel Club disapproves of bulldogs having tails that are too long or wavy in their appearance. There is no connection between the form of a Bulldog's tail and the outstanding personality they possess, which is fantastic news. Long-tailed Bulldogs, much like other varieties of Bulldogs, may be beautiful pets and loyal friends as long as their owners do not intend to enter them in conformation dog competitions.
4. Straight And Long Tails
Bulldog puppies are born with a tail that is already beginning to resemble its mature form. The American Kennel Club states that the most attractive types of tails are those that are either straight and long or twisted into a corkscrew form. The tail of a young Bulldog puppy is straight and very flexible. It is broadest at its base and narrows to the point that is both pointed and triangular in shape.
As you may have seen, a bulldog with a long tail is a highly unusual sight. Some individuals think they're hilarious, but others in the breeding industry consider them defective. Long tails are considered anomalies by some individuals when it comes to bulldogs. However, this particular tail is just as natural as any other tail. It's possible that a bulldog's long tail was caused by a combination of genetic and environmental influences. These are the following:
Through Hybridization
If a bulldog were to be mated with another type of dog that has a long tail, there is a possibility that the offspring might have bulldogs with a longer tail. Numerous research studies involving crossbreeding have been performed on bulldogs to bring forth various characteristics. During this procedure, some of them grow incredibly long tails. This circumstance does not diminish these bulldogs in any way. If a gene for a long tail existed at some point in the pedigree of a bulldog, then it is possible that this gene might become active later in the life cycle of a bulldog. You will end up with a dog that resembles a bulldog but has a long tail. The Bulldogs, on the other hand, haven't benefited all that much from the interbreeding. Instead, it has changed their genetic variability, producing a less robust generation than the original Bulldog. This particular gene variant contributes to the extensive list of health problems connected with the contemporary Bulldog.
Bulldog Tail Docking/Amputation
Tails on Bulldogs can be amputated if advised to do so by a trained practitioner, such as your veterinarian.
No one who owns a dog has the right to determine that their pet's tail is excessive and should be cut off. If a dog's tail has to be removed for health reasons, a veterinary surgeon may recommend that the procedure be performed.
The tail can get infected, making it difficult for the dog to defecate. This is something that is often observed in bulldogs who have corkscrew tails.
Bulldog Tail Care
The Bulldog's tail and the region immediately surrounding it must be maintained clean at all times, particularly in the case of bulldogs with corkscrew/wavy tails. Regarding Bulldog's health, ignoring the tail and the back part might lead to issues in the future, such as illnesses and irritation.
To prevent this from happening, you should ensure that the region under your Bulldog's dimpled tail is kept clean. Remove dust and grime with a moist washcloth or baby wipes that do not contain fragrance. After that, wipe the area with a gentle and absorbent tissue or cloth.
It's also a good idea to rinse the bulldog tails and the space around them with warm water in order to maintain a clean environment. If you notice an abnormally unpleasant smell emanating from the rear end of your Bulldog, particularly if the region feels sore and sensitive, then a trip to the veterinarian may be required.
When They Are Born, Do Bulldogs Have Tails?
Bulldog puppies are born with tails, much like puppies of other famous and less well-known dog breeds. However, their tails are not very long.
Because of how small their tails are, many people mistakenly assume that they were born without tails. However, this is not the case at all. There is a high incidence of bulldogs being born with tails that look like this.
Is Bulldog Tail Docking/Amputation Necessary?
Particular Bulldogs do not require their tails to be amputated. Furthermore, this requires a costly, major surgery. In addition, throughout this surgery, your Bulldog will be given anesthesia, which is a very risky choice in and of itself. Amputation of the Bulldog's tail is only advised in cases when the animal continues to have painful sores and infections in the region even after getting proper medicinal treatment.
Is It Possible For A Bulldog To Have A Long Tail?
The Bulldog can, in fact, have a relatively long tail. This is usually associated with breeding (as discussed above).
Although some authorities on dogs assert that this is due to the practice of crossbreeding, this is not necessarily the case.
There is a high incidence of Bulldogs being born with a tail that is regarded to be lengthy. On the other hand, it is essential to point out that the tail is not as long as the one on a GSD or an Alaskan Malamute; instead, it is something that is more analogous to the tails of Corgis, which can be smaller.
The most important thing to remember is that there is no cause to be concerned about your Bulldog having a longer tail if it is born with a long tail.
What Is Meant By The Term "Screw Tail Bulldog"?
The corkscrew tail with deviation in Bulldog is referred to as a "screw tail." The term "ingrown tail" has also been used to refer to this condition. This condition is rarely observed in Frenchies, pugs, and terriers.
Do Bulldogs Have The Ability To Wag Their Tails?
No. Most Bulldogs do not have the ability to wag their tails. It's possible that particular bulldogs will be able to wiggle their stumpy tails somewhat. Still, a happy bulldog would generally have a wagging bottom since their tails are generally too short to move rapidly.
Conclusion
When it comes to beautiful Bulldogs, there are many things to adore about them. What is there not to enjoy about this pup, whether it is their delightfully squashed face, gigantic body type, or confident and pleasant personality.
Having a tail that is typically stubby and small from birth is just another lovable quality to add to the list.
This canine companion is born with a naturally short tail, which is accomplished by genetics and natural breeding to achieve this attribute. As the number of nations that outlaw cosmetic tail docking and tail cropping treatments increases, these practices are being done for the right reasons.

As a freelance pet writer and blogger, Shannon is passionate about crafting knowledge-based, science-supported articles that foster healthy bonds of love and respect between people and animals. But her first and very most important job is as a dog auntie and cockatiel, tortoise, and box turtle mama.