37Behavioural AuditBonnieFemale Lurcher, aged four at assessment. Chase behaviour and social excitement.
Bonnie's plan aimed to give her chase drive an appropriate outlet while building calmer responses around dogs and people.
Case stageBehavioural Audit
ProfileFemale Lurcher, aged four at assessment. Chase behaviour and social excitement.
01 · The presenting picture
Bonnie was highly active but could still struggle to settle. Barking, jumping and repeated approaches towards other dogs were reported, alongside strong interest in wildlife.
At home, she frequently sought interaction and could growl when another dog approached a resting space. One household altercation was reported without injury.
02 · What the audit identified
The assessment considered excitement, sensitivity and inconsistent communication together. More exercise alone was not the proposed answer. The plan needed to support recovery, reduce competition and teach a reliable response before freedom increased.
03 · The Canine UK strategy
- Develop a consistent recall and disengagement system with physical backup.
- Manage feeding, resting areas and valuable spaces separately where needed.
- Introduce predictable rest and gradual independence alongside suitable activity.
- Build dog neutrality through controlled exposure rather than repeated approaches.
04 · Recommended pathway
- Professional recall training and residential support were offered as possible routes, supported by a household management plan.
- The reviewed document does not show that either programme began or establish a later outcome.
05 · Owner transfer and maintenance
Owner work focused on consistent cues, preventing wildlife chasing and recognising when excitement was rising. Comfortable crate travel was not treated as proof that indoor crate rest was already established.