49Behavioural AuditNovaFemale dog, aged three at assessment. Breed remains unconfirmed.
Nova's assessment focused on rebuilding manageable experiences without losing sight of defensive behaviour and owner confidence.
Case stageBehavioural Audit
ProfileFemale dog, aged three at assessment. Breed remains unconfirmed.
01 · The presenting picture
The report described difficulty with close approaches, visitors and ordinary public environments. Much of her activity took place in private exercise settings rather than routine walks.
The owners wanted calmer lead behaviour, greater confidence and dependable responses around people and dogs. The source did not document an actual bite, but identified defensive risk.
02 · What the audit identified
The audit considered limited exposure, physical comfort and handling confidence together. Safe progression would depend on Nova's response and recovery, rather than simply increasing time in busy places.
03 · The Canine UK strategy
- Keep visitor and public exposure within a manageable safety plan.
- Develop clear walking cues and predictable household routines.
- Provide appropriate fulfilment alongside opportunities to settle.
- Use gradual exposure and professional feedback to guide progression.
04 · Recommended pathway
- Residential support was proposed, with an owner led route also discussed. Neither recommendation establishes a selected or completed programme.
- The reviewed evidence does not confirm a later improvement, reliable recall or public freedom.
05 · Owner transfer and maintenance
Owners would record the situations Nova found difficult, the distance she needed and how quickly she recovered. Further decisions depended on clearer information and responses that could be maintained consistently.