Because of certain anatomical features (such as having a squat, wrinkled body), some dogs have something called “tail pockets.” These indentations are generally three to five centimeters deep. They’re generally located beneath or on top of a dog’s tail, and they’re generally hidden beneath skin folds, making them difficult to immediately identify in some dogs.
While a normal part of a dog’s body, these pockets need regular cleaning to prevent moisture and debris buildup. Read on to learn more about tail pockets and how to keep them clean.
The Tail Pocket Is Located on the Hindquarters
To see if your dog has a tail pocket, run your fingers alongside their hindquarters near the tail. If your dog has one, you’ll feel a small gap that you could fit a finger inside. Keep in mind that despite its proximity, a dog’s tail pocket is not the anus.
Upon finding your dog’s tail pocket, you may notice that it’s filled with dirt, loose hair, and even some dried fecal matter. If that’s the case, you need to clean out your dog’s tail pocket. As we’ll explain later, this is a simple process that you can easily accomplish at home. Of course, you may choose to have a professional groomer do it if you’re not comfortable.
Many Flat-Faced Dog Breeds Have Tail Pockets
Because of their squat, low-to-the-ground bodies, many brachycephalic dogs have tail pockets. Dogs with long, wagging tails, like Labrador Retrievers, don’t have tail pockets. However, dogs with corkscrew tails generally do. If your dog has a stubby tail or skin folds, they might have a tail pocket. Breeds that also have this feature include:
- Shar-Pei
- Pugs
- English Bulldogs
- American Bulldogs
- French Bulldogs
Still, every individual dog is different, so not every breed on this list may have a tail pocket. So, it is important to check your dog to see if it has one.
Regular Grooming Prevents Common Issues with Tail Pockets
The good news is that a tail pocket is not an open wound or orifice. It just happens to be a small dimple with an inconvenient location. Unfortunately, because it’s located on the dog’s rear end, it’s prone to filling with fecal matter, moisture, and hair. It can also accumulate yeast, which can, in the right conditions, cause an array of skin issues. If you notice itching, redness, a musty odor, and crusty, flaky skin in the area of the tail pocket, then your dog likely has yeast dermatitis.
You don’t want to take any gambles when it comes to your dog’s health. If you notice any signs of infection or other health issues impairing your dog’s life, consult their vet.
How to Clean a Tail Pocket
The first thing to keep in mind is that the tail pocket is a sensitive area for your dog. So, during the cleaning process, they might squirm a bit. Use positive reinforcement and high value treats to make cleaning as stress-free as possible.
To clean a dog’s tail pocket, first decide whether to use a dog-friendly medicated wipe or a damp cotton ball. Medicated wipes are ideal, as they can also help treat and prevent mild infections.
Next, take your cleaning material and clean the tail pocket, being sure to get inside each crevice. Afterward, take special care to make sure the tail pocket is dry. Remember: if a tail pocket remains moist, it becomes a hotspot for yeast and bacteria to grow. Finally, you should practice preventative care by applying a moisturizing balm or antibacterial spray to prevent itching, irritation, and dryness.
In severe cases of tail pocket infections, the area may be too tight to clean, or the infection may become too recurrent and problematic. In these cases, the tail may need to be amputated to keep the dog free from infection.
When Do Tail Pockets Require Surgery?
If your dog suffers from recurrent infections that cause extreme pain and itching, your dog may need surgery. Surgery is always only performed if there are no other options, and the tail pocket is causing your dog significant harm.
Some signs that your dog may need a tail amputation are the following:
- Frequent infections
- Constant pain and itching
- Foul odor
- Brown discharge
- Aggression due to pain
This surgery works to cut off the abnormal tail vertebrae and remove the crease or fold, leaving behind a flat area instead of the tail pocket. It’s a delicate procedure that you can learn more about by asking your vet specific questions about your dog’s health.
Other Anatomical Features Some Dogs Have
Tail pockets aren’t the only unique anatomical feature some dogs have. For example:
- The Komondor, a Hungarian dog breed, has corded locks, kind of like dreads. These canines were bred to guard livestock and property.
- Bull Terriers have a unique crest on their heads for no reason other than aesthetics.
- Bloodhounds are bred to have wrinkly jowls. Believe it or not, these skin folds allow these scent hounds to retain smells longer than some other breeds.
- Corgis and Dachshunds are low-to-the-ground dogs because their stature helped with chasing rodents. This genetic trait is a form of dwarfism that affects these breeds. Basset Hounds have this characteristic, too.
Tail Pockets Are No Cause of Concern
Tail pockets are common in dogs with corkscrew, small, or short tails such as Bulldogs, Pugs, and Shar-Pei. These indentions beneath the tail can pick up debris that can cause your dog to develop yeast or bacterial infections. As a responsible owner, it is important to regularly clean this tail pocket. If it gets infected, you should take your dog to the vet for evaluation.
