44Behavioural AuditHollyFemale Boerboel and English Mastiff cross, approximately two at assessment.
Holly's assessment combined dog reactivity work with the practical needs of a powerful, sensitive dog and her household.
Case stageBehavioural Audit
ProfileFemale Boerboel and English Mastiff cross, approximately two at assessment.
01 · The presenting picture
Holly could scan, stiffen, bark or lunge around dogs and unfamiliar situations, then take time to recover. Reliable lead handling and confidence outside familiar routines were key goals.
The household also included another dog, making individual training, separate resources and manageable activity important parts of the plan.
02 · What the audit identified
Walking improved during assessment, providing a useful starting point. Physical sensitivity was also observed and needed consideration before more intensive work. Neither the brief handling response nor the absence of reported bites established safety in every setting.
03 · The Canine UK strategy
- Build calm exposure at distances where Holly could respond and recover.
- Develop clear walking cues and consistent owner handling.
- Train household dogs individually before adding combined challenges.
- Protect rest and consider comfort when choosing activity and progression.
04 · Recommended pathway
- Residential rehabilitation and an owner led training route were discussed as alternatives. The reviewed sources do not establish which route was chosen.
- No completed programme, later owner handover or lasting outcome is confirmed.
05 · Owner transfer and maintenance
Owners would record trigger distance, recovery and physical comfort, while maintaining separate feeding and suitable resting spaces. Family outings and greater freedom depended on dependable adult handling.