Why Do Some Dog Breeds Have Short Tails?
For many dog owners, their pup’s tail is one of the cutest and most endearing parts of their pet. But for some breeds like English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, and Pugs, a short tail or “bobtail” is part of their unique look. In this article, we’ll discuss why some dogs have short tails and how to care for them properly.
Understanding Why Some Dogs Have Short Tails
The short tails that are seen in certain breeds of dogs didn't happen naturally; they were actually bred into them by humans over time. This happened as a result of what's called "artificial selection" where specific traits are carefully selected through breeding in order to get the desired outcome. In this case, a shorter tail length was desired to achieve a certain look and breed standard for these particular doggos.
Common Short Tail Issues in Dogs
Even though short tails are adorable, it’s important to be aware of the issues that can sometimes accompany them:
- Rectal prolapse: Short-tailed breeds like Pugs and English Bulldogs are at a higher risk of rectal prolapse, which is when the inner lining of the rectum passes through the anus. This can be caused by excessive straining due to constipation or other digestive issues.
- Anal gland impaction: Short-tailed breeds can also be more prone to anal gland impaction. This occurs when the glands become blocked, preventing the dog from being able to express them naturally.
- Skin problems: Dogs with short tails are more prone to developing skin irritations because of the increased friction between their tail and the ground as they move around. This can also cause increased shedding in that area as well. It’s important to keep an eye on your pup’s skin to make sure it stays healthy and moisturized if you have a dog with a short tail.
- Broken tail: A broken tail is usually the result of an injury and can cause your dog a lot of pain. If you think your dog has a broken tail, it's important to take them to the vet as soon as possible.
- Tail pocket Infection: Tail pockets are the skin folds that bulldogs and other short tail breeds have at the base of their tails. These skin folds can trap moisture, dirt, and bacteria. If not cleaned regularly, tail pockets can become infected.
Caring For Your Pup's Short Tail
While there are no special health concerns that come with having a short tail, it is important to be aware of how best to care for them. First and foremost, it's essential that you regularly check their tails for any signs of injury or infection as they can sometimes be more susceptible due to their limited range of motion.
To avoid a tail pocket infection, keep the area clean and free of debris and moisture which can easily be trapped in the pocket and cause bacteria to build up and form an infection. Use Squishface Wrinkle Wipes to clean in and around the area until all the dirt and debris have been removed. Be gentle when cleaning this area as it can easily become irritated and sensitive. Follow up with Squishface Wrinkle Paste in the area. Wrinkle Paste forms a water-repellent barrier on the skin surface which keeps moisture, yeast, fungus, and other bacteria away.
That said, if your pup’s tail does appear irritated or infected at any point, seek medical attention immediately as this can cause serious health issues.
The Bottom Line
Some breeds like English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, and Pugs may have short tails, but that doesn’t mean their care should be any different than other breeds of dogs. With regular checks and proper grooming, you can ensure your pup is living a happy and healthy life – no matter what the length of their tail!
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