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By Judyvein Cheng, CPCN, BRNC
Certified pet nutritionist in Singapore
QUICK ANSWER
Bulldogs, Frenchies, pugs and Boston terriers with short, screw-shaped tails often have a deep skin fold around the tail, called a tail pocket. It's warm, dark and damp, the perfect place for yeast and bacteria. Keeping it clean and completely dry is the best way to prevent infection.
What is a tail pocket?
Many flat-faced breeds have a short, tightly curled "screw" tail. The skin around it can form a deep pocket, either under the tail or around it. Some are shallow and easy to clean, while others are so deep you can barely see inside.
Why tail pockets get infected
✓ Moisture: the fold traps sweat, bath water and humidity, and air can't get in to dry it.
✓ Faeces and anal gland fluid: the pocket sits right next to the bottom, so bits of poo and anal gland fluid can collect there. Read more in what scooting means.
✓ Yeast and bacteria: both love warm, damp, dark places.
✓ Extra weight: overweight dogs have deeper, tighter folds. Read more in helping your dog reach a healthy weight.
Signs of a tail pocket infection
✓ Scooting, or licking and chewing at the tail area
✓ Redness or swelling
✓ A bad smell
✓ Discharge or moisture in the fold
✓ Your dog pulls away or seems sore when you touch the tail
How to clean a tail pocket
Lift the tail gently so you can see into the fold.
Clean it: spray JOOF Hygiene Water into the fold, or soak a cotton pad with it, and wipe all the way into the pocket.
Dry it completely: pat the fold dry with a clean, soft cloth or cotton pad. This is the most important step, as any moisture left behind can feed yeast.
Soothe if needed: if the skin looks red or irritated, apply a thin layer of Farm Dog Naturals Restore Salve or Natural Dog Company Skin Soother.
FROM MY EXPERIENCE
Wangcai had a tail pocket too. I kept it clean with Hygiene Water.
When it got irritated, I used Natural Dog Company Skin Soother. After I found Farm Dog Naturals Restore, I used Restore more.
If the tail pocket is already infected
Trim the fur around the area, if there is any, so it's easier to keep clean and dry.
Clean the fold with Hygiene Water, pat it completely dry, then apply Restore Salve or Skin Soother.
Don't squeeze or try to drain it. If an abscess has already burst open, let it drain and keep the area clean.
Use a warm compress: hold a warm, damp cloth on the area for 5 minutes, then remove it for 5 minutes. Repeat a few times, 2 to 5 times a day. This helps bring blood flow to the area and helps it heal.
See your vet if there's a lot of swelling, pus, bleeding or a lump, your dog is in pain or has a fever, or it doesn't improve within a few days. Some very deep tail pockets keep getting infected, and your vet may talk to you about other options.
Preventing tail pocket infections
✓ Clean and dry the fold regularly, daily if your dog is prone to infections, then apply a thin layer of Natural Dog Company Wrinkle Balm to protect the skin.
✓ Always dry it after baths and after your dog gets wet.
✓ Keep your dog at a healthy weight so the fold stays shallow.
✓ Look after the anal glands, so less fluid ends up in the pocket.
✓ Support from the inside: if your dog keeps getting yeast infections, look at their diet and gut health. Read more in dog ear yeast infections.
Frequently asked questions
Do all bulldogs have a tail pocket?
No. It depends on the shape of the tail and the depth of the fold. Some have a deep pocket, some a shallow one, and some none at all.
Can I use baby wipes?
It's best not to. Many contain fragrance and chemicals that can irritate the skin, and they leave the fold damp. Use a pet-safe cleanser and dry it well.
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This article is for educational purposes and isn't a substitute for veterinary care. If you're concerned about your pet's health, please seek professional advice.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Judyvein Cheng, CPCN, BRNC
Judyvein is a Certified Professional Canine Nutritionist and Certified Raw Nutrition Coach for Cats & Dogs, and the founder of JOOF Holistic Pet. Her journey began with her Frenchie, Wangcai, and today she helps pet parents in Singapore take a root-cause approach to their pets' health.
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