53Behavioural AuditRonnieMale working line Labrador, aged three at assessment.
Ronnie's assessment showed useful responses to clearer handling while identifying the work still needed around excitement and distraction.
Case stageBehavioural Audit
ProfileMale working line Labrador, aged three at assessment.
01 · The presenting picture
Strong pulling made walks difficult to manage. Recall could end in an arc past the handler, and Ronnie struggled to maintain positions when excited.
Play and environmental interests were strong motivators. Repeated verbal input and unstructured access to toys could make it harder to settle into the task.
02 · What the audit identified
Ronnie worked more successfully during lead exercises in the training area. He remained calm with one suitable dog and recovered after a more difficult interaction with another. These observations were limited to the session.
03 · The Canine UK strategy
- Use clear walking and recall cues with a consistent release.
- Practise short, manageable exercises before increasing distraction.
- Give play a predictable start, pause and finish.
- Build dog exposure around distance, responsiveness and recovery.
04 · Recommended pathway
- Further professional recall and control training was recommended, with residential support discussed as an alternative.
- A proposed follow up was not evidence of a booked appointment. No later programme attendance or completed outcome is established by the source.
05 · Owner transfer and maintenance
Owners would practise complete returns, quieter handling and controlled play, while recording the situations in which Ronnie needed extra help. Progress had to become reliable beyond the training area.