The primary signs that a French Bulldog is not experiencing the typical "bulking up" of its head include a lack of widening of the body, no increase in head circumference, no thickening of the neck, no changes in the eyes, no arching of the neck and back, a flat forehead without growth, and no noticeable stop (the angle between the forehead and muzzle).
What Does "Bulking Up" in French Bulldogs Mean?
A French Bulldog's head is normally short and large. Due to genetics, some may experience what’s often referred to as "bulking up" of the head. This term refers to the rapid development and increase in head size, almost like the transition from an egg to a goose egg. This usually occurs in French Bulldogs between 8-12 months of age. The head’s proportions, relative to the body, shifts, becoming more square rather than just rounded.
Signs of a French Bulldog Not "Bulking Up" in the Head
1. If a French Bulldog is experiencing the typical "bulking up" of their head, the body will grow sideways. The absence of this horizontal growth is a sign of not bulking up. Additionally, if a French Bulldog reaches a certain age and its head doesn't change in size, the head circumference doesn't increase or expand outwards, and the body proportions remain the same with a disproportionately small head, it means they are not "bulking up".
2. If a French Bulldog is "bulking up" its neck will become thicker to support the larger head. A thin neck can be dangerous. Therefore, a French Bulldog's neck not thickening is an indication it’s not "bulking up".
3. When a French Bulldog is "bulking up" their eyes may become larger and protrude or recess. If there is no change in the appearance of the eyes this is an indication that they are not "bulking up".
4. If a French Bulldog is experiencing the "bulking up" process, the area where the neck meets the back will arch upwards, becoming stronger and more compact. If this is not observed it indicates that the dog is not "bulking up".
5. A French Bulldog that is not "bulking up" will not have a forehead that grows flatly and will also not have a pronounced stop. The stop is the angle formed between the front of the forehead and the top of the muzzle. When a dog is "bulking up" the area below the forehead should appear concave.