46Behavioural AuditMabelFemale American Staffy and Boxer type, aged three at assessment.
Mabel's assessment focused on managing arousal before it turned into conflict with the people handling her.
Case stageBehavioural Audit
ProfileFemale American Staffy and Boxer type, aged three at assessment.
01 · The presenting picture
High energy dogs could trigger barking and lunging, followed by slow recovery. The history included teeth contact and bruising during redirection, which remained important even where the report used different language for bite history.
Mabel also showed strong chase interest and unreliable recall around distraction. Calmer dogs were easier for her than more animated encounters.
02 · What the audit identified
The audit considered trigger intensity, movement, play and recovery together. Good walking away from triggers did not establish control during escalation. Reported stiffness also mattered when selecting suitable activity.
03 · The Canine UK strategy
- Recognise rising arousal early and keep encounters manageable.
- Use physical backup for recall and prevent access to wildlife or livestock.
- Provide structured play with clear pauses and opportunities to recover.
- Teach consistent responses that owners can use before behaviour escalates.
04 · Recommended pathway
- Residential work was recommended, with an owner led course and individual support discussed as alternatives.
- A preference for residential support and a possible availability date do not establish a booking, attendance or outcome.
05 · Owner transfer and maintenance
Owner work centred on recording triggers, contact incidents and recovery, while avoiding uncontrolled encounters designed to test progress. The plan aimed to create repeatable responses within practical safety limits.