THE BODY narrows slightly towards the loins, which are short. The length, withers to tail, is approximately equal to the height at the withers THUS, A COMPACT, BALANCED, SQUARE BODIED DOG. The top line rises progressively from the withers to the level of the loin, and descends rapidly towards the tail (roach back). A low set short tail, and there should be a tail, positioned correctly cannot be carried above the level of the back. Straight or kinked tails are acceptable, but in length should not reach the groin area. And ideally should just cover the anal orifice. The roach and tuck-up of the belly, should follow similar lines. The longer hind legs raise the hindquarters, setting the loin above the height of the withers. Stifles are only moderately angulated. When moving a Frenchie, I prefer a triangle, and I am looking for parallel movement, fore and aft, with the hind legs visible between the front with the dog coming forward. Movement is described as fine in our standard. This comprises of short, quick steps on the tips of the toes. The steep angulation of the pelvis restricts the normal drive from the hindquarters creating fine movement, but this is also a result of too straight a stifle and a more free movement is not a disadvantage. There is a balance between forequarters and hindquarters both contributing towards the dog’s momentum. The required conformation can produce a skip step to synchronize front with rear, as there is a natural tendency to pace, due to roach back and longer hind legs. Changing to the correct gait can produce this shuffle step. It should not be pronounced and only evident occasionally when changing pace and must not be confused with a hop, which can indicate unsoundness. This statement is not to condone this action, just explain it. There is a slight roll to the hindquarters, more a gentle sway, not near as exaggerated as the Bulldog. The movement has been described as a jaunty clown dancing, having a discernable spring in the step. While this is the typical, ideal movement, a Frenchie that has more drive from the rear should still be in consideration, as it is the soundness of the hindquarters that are of prime importance. Feet however should not extend far behind, showing vast amounts of pad or the flying trot of the Gundog is totally incorrect. A brisk walk is the best way of assessing a Frenchies gait accurately. When standing at a natural stance, the rump and the front surface of the rear pastern should be in a vertical line Just bear in mind that the French Bulldog was initially a small lap dog, and our standard calls for 24lb (10.9 kg.) bitch and 28lb (12.7 kgs) dog, but although soundness must not be sacrificed to smallness, this does not mean that the Frenchie should develop into a small British Bulldog. Finally, Frenchies are not a head or front on breed, and Judges should not request exhibits be set up as per a British. This immediately indicates to the exhibitor that breed knowledge is limited. The best over-all picture is obtained with an oblique stance, with left shoulder forward.
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