How To Clean A Bulldogs Tail Pocket

Bulldog Tail Pocket

Bulldogs have a unique body structure in the canine world and are covered with both wrinkles and folds from head to toe. Their scrunched faces and body type makes them stand out from other breeds. But one of its more prominent features is a tail pocket, which if not cleaned well can become a breeding avenue for bacteria.

What is a tail pocket on an English bulldog?The tail pocket is a hollowed out area formed underneath the hard, stiff tail of a bulldog. The tail pocket requires frequent cleaning as it can easily collect dirt and dust. If not washed, infections can commonly occur from the bacteria growth.

It's worth noting that not all English bulldogs have tail pockets, and tail pockets usually form around 6 months of age. But those bulldog owners lucky enough to have a bully with a tail pocket will need to regularly and thoroughly clean it out to avoid any type of infection.

How to Locate the Tail Pocket

By gently lifting your bulldog's tail or running your hand underneath their tail you can observe the hollowed out area. If you find a shallow dent, then the bulldog has a tail pocket.

This indentation can easily be passed over by the owner when cleaning and may go unnoticed. However, it is important not to skip over this area while you groom your bulldog. Bacteria love to breed in these these warm spots.

4 Reasons Why its Important to Clean the Tail Pocket

There has been some light reference of why you, the bulldog owner, should make the tail pocket a top priority when bathing or for a frequent wipe down. But here are 4 specific reasons why this step to take care of your beloved pet really matters.

Cleaning the tail pocket prevents the accumulation of filth and moisture. This guards the English bulldog tail pocket of your dog from irritations and infections caused by bacteria. Not only should the cleaning be regular, but be sure to dry this indentation well.
An irritated tail pocket can result in the following reactions from your bully. There may be excessive scratching or biting near the rear end. My English bulldog Daisy is not that flexible to reach her behind but she does scoot her bottom on the ground as a means to clean her behind.
Some symptoms may develop such as sensitivity to the touch around this area, swelling, infection, dryness and more. It is likely that a vet may need to be consulted if their is an infection to receive guidance on how to properly treat the area.
English bulldogs can already smell if not well cared for. But a clean tail pocket ensures that any smells will be kept at bay.

Cleaning the tail pocket helps your bully live the carefree life it deserves, without discomfort or pain.

4 Steps on How to Carefully Clean an English Bulldog Tail Pocket

If your bulldog has a tail pocket, it will start to collect dirt and dust over time. This will be manifested by dryness of the skin around the tail. These simple steps will be sure to help clean out the muck from your fur pet.

Using wipes or a washrag soaked in a mild soap solution and water that's lukewarm, clean the area around the tail. Wipe out any visible dirt. If you notice that there are colors like dark red, green, or anything other than dirt, it means bacteria has been growing in your pups tail pocket and you may need to take extra measures to ensure this area stays dry and clean. Rinse off the washrag or grab a new wipe if area is excessively dirty and repeat the process until clean.
Using a soft, clean towel, dry the English bulldog's tail pocket and surrounding area. A dryer set at low heat can also be used to dry off any moisture to remove any dampness. A well dried tail pocket will be sure to ward off further bacteria or fungus growth.
Once clean and dry, you can apply a wrinkle paste cream if necessary. Even if the tail pocket doesn't appear irritated in any manner, this step can be a welcome relief.

Treating Infections of the English Bulldog Tail Pocket at Home

If the infection is mild, the following are valuable tips you can follow to treat the English bulldog tail pocket.

Carefully trim the hair around the infected region.
Using an antibiotic soap, wash the region and dry with a towel or a blow dryer.
For an open wound with pus, gently squeeze the pus out using a cloth.
Soak a washing towel in warm water and gently apply around the infected area. Now using a hot towel, place it on the skin of your dog for roughly 3 to 6 minutes. This procedure should be done at least 3 times a per day until the infection starts to heal.

If redness, swelling, or pus continues or appears to worsen, seek the assistance of your local vet.

Products that Can Help Clean and Treat Mild Irritations

The following products can be generously applied around the infected parts of bulldog's tail pocket. They are simple remedies that have been tested and proven to relieve irritation and foster faster healing and prevention of infections.

Wrinkle balm
Skin soother
Vaseline
Medicated Pet shampoo

When applying any ointment be sure that this is done after the area is clean and dry.

Wash the area with dog shampoo and warm water. Scrub well and rinse with water.
Dry with a towel or dryer.
Apply ointment to the area. Balm, skin soother, or Vaseline can heal dryness and irritations. They also act as a barrier from any potential bacterial infestation or wounds forming from overt dryness.

How to Prevent Tail Pocket Infections from Occurring

It is better to prevent a potential infection than combat the infection once it has set in. Some measures that bulldog owners take to help support the well-being of their pooch are:

Amputating the tail of their bulldog through a professional veterinarian. This is only recommended if your bully has recurring and severe bacterial infections. Before making this decision, talk with your vet to understand the cost and benefit of such a drastic step.
Regularly clean the bulldog tail pocket to remove any dirt build-up. Make it a dust-free zone. Dry well to prevent bacteria growth after cleaning.

If the infection is serious, always seek help from your vet on best practices to treat your English bulldog's condition.

Other English Bulldog Related Care

A bulldog's personal care should always be a top priority. Knowing how to bathe and groom properly can go a long way to maintain your bully's health. A well care for bulldog is a happy bulldog. To learn more about best care practices read the following related articles:

Best Grooming Brush for Bulldogs Plus 9 Grooming Essentials!
How Often Do I Need to Groom My Bulldog? Plus 7 Grooming Benefits!
How to Wash a Bulldog in 6 EASY Steps!
How to Treat Tear Stains in Bulldogs? 4 Must Know Tips!

My English bulldog Daisy doesn't like baths, having her face cleaned, or just general grooming but you can tell it is appreciated after care is given. It is a hassle but one that is essential for her overall health.

Conclusion

It is easy for a new owner to miss the tail pocket and the importance of cleaning it well. Its best to understand good care practices early on before a significant issue arises.

If your pet has a tail pocket, clean it regularly. If your bulldog displays symptoms of irritation like excessive itching, redness, dryness, etc. apply an approved pet cream or Vaseline to quickly treat early symptoms. If it worsens, go to your vet.

Bacteria build-up and discomfort are common with tail pockets but any pet parent is capable of giving your English bulldog proper care so it may live a comfortable, healthy life.