Their cute short-muzzled faces, glossy cuddly coat, and affectionate nature are just some of the many attributes that make pugs irresistible. But it is their curly tail that is most desirable.
But why do pugs have curly tails? Well, the curly nature of their tails is due to a spinal deviation. And since the tail consists of the same vertebra and cartilages from the spine, it curls naturally.
Read on to learn more about why pugs have curly tails.
When Do Pugs Develop Curly Tails?
Pugs are not born with curly tails. However, they begin to curl up somewhere between the first few weeks and two months after birth.
With that being said, let’s take a look at the different types of curly tails in pugs.
The Single Curled Tail
This is the most common type of curly tail in pugs. It is developed when the tail naturally lifts itself and rests on the dog’s back.
The Double Curled Tail
These tails are considered to be the perfect curly tail in pugs. In fact, the American and UK Kennel Club state that a pug has to have this type of curly tail for them to recognize it. Double curled tails are tightly curled over the dog’s hip.
Mostly, pugs with a double curled tail are a breed of two pugs with that type of curly tail. This is the same case with dogs with single curled tails. So, it is quite rare to find two pugs with double curled tails producing a single curled tail dog and vise versa.
Do Pugs Lose Their Curl as They Mature?
No. As pups grow older, their tail will naturally tighten up and will curl. However, pugs will curl and uncurl their tail throughout the day for several reasons. The following are some of them.
When They Are Expressing Their Emotions
Dogs mostly use their tails to express their emotions, and pugs are no exception. For example, a curly pug tail may straighten up when your pet is sad, stressed, or anxious. This is often accompanied by whining or whimpering instead of barking.
When They Are in a Relaxed Mood
Interestingly, a curly pug tail may become straight when your dog is in a relaxed mood, such as when it’s sleeping or lazing around. To signal contentment, you’ll notice its tail moving slowly from side to side.
When it Faces Disapproval
A dog may uncurl its tail and sometimes place it in between its legs as a sign of feeling ashamed or guilty, especially after being scolded. Of course, no one wants to see their furry little friend act that way, so it’s never okay to scold a dog.
When Eating
Pugs also uncurl their tails when concentrating on a task such as eating. Your pup may also wag its tail in excitement as it eats.
What Are Some of the Health Problems Related to Curly Pug Tails?
While curly pugs tails are the most desirable features in this dog breed, they also come with their fair share of health issues. Here are a couple of health problems your pup’s curly tail may bring about and how to deal with them.
Bacterial Infections
The curly nature of your dog’s tail may cause it to retain moisture and dirt. This can encourage the growth of fungus or bacteria, leading to extreme itchiness. As you might expect, your dog will begin rubbing its tail against surfaces or objects in the house. Doing so may result in hot spots that are prone to bacterial infections when not treated early enough.
If you notice your pet showing signs of itchiness in its tail, spray it with an apple cider vinegar and water mixture. The antiseptic and anti-fungal properties of vinegar make it an excellent remedy. You can also bathe it with a medicated or hypoallergenic shampoo to eliminate bacteria between the tail.
Flea Infestation
Your dog’s curly tail may also be a hiding spot for fleas, and once they bite into your pup’s skin, their saliva can cause severe itchiness. Here are some valuable tips for getting rid of fleas in your pug’s tail.
- Give oral flea medications. These will kill the parasites on your dog’s tail within an hour after being administered
- Apply flea shampoos
- Spray your dog with an apple cider vinegar and water mixture
Getting rid of fleas on your dog isn’t enough. It is also essential to wash its beddings and kennel with lukewarm water and soap to kill the fleas’ larvae and eggs. Also, don’t forget to spray your home with an environmental-friendly flea spray to kill those that may be around the house.
Injuries Or Trauma
Since a pug’s tail is curly, it is more prone to injuries or internal trauma. The injury may result from accidentally being hurt by another dog while playing, falling, or the tail being slammed by a shutting door.
It could also happen when someone tries to stretch the tail, causing the muscles and nerves to tear. That is why it is crucial to warn your kids not to try extending your pug’s tail.
Infections in Your Pug’s Tail Pocket
A tail pocket is a kind of indentation under a dog’s tail caused by wrinkly skin. It is quite common in pugs because of the curly nature of their tails.
Tail pockets often collect dirt and moisture, which can result in itchiness. This may lead to your dog rubbing its tail excessively, leading to ulceration.
Therefore, it is important to clean that area regularly using a damp towel or baby wipes to get rid of the moisture and dirt build-up. Be sure to dry the pocket because moisture can encourage the growth of bacterial, leading to discomfort.
Conclusion – Why Do Pugs Have Curly Tails?
These curls are a cartilage appendage of the spine. This means that they don’t form by accident and should not be corrected because it can lead to injuries. While this curled tail is a thing of beauty, it predisposes the pug to a host of issues that can affect its wellbeing. Therefore, make sure that you can provide proper care to the dog before adopting one.
About the author
Rachael is the co-founder and editor at Pug Facts. Owner of one elderly Pug, she’s dedicated to helping other Pug owners create healthy, happy, lives with their furry best friends.
