56Behavioural AuditWoodyMale Golden Retriever, aged four at assessment.
Woody's assessment focused on calmer walking and visitor behaviour while taking previous experiences and routine changes into account.
Case stageBehavioural Audit
ProfileMale Golden Retriever, aged four at assessment.
01 · The presenting picture
The report described barking at visitors, particularly unfamiliar men, and difficulty settling around some dogs. Pulling was strongest at the start of walks.
A previous attack by another dog was reported. Woody also showed retrieving and wildlife interest, which required sensible management alongside the walking goals.
02 · What the audit identified
The assessment described good food motivation and familiar cues that could support training. No bite history was reported, but handling and exposure still needed to reflect Woody's response in each setting.
03 · The Canine UK strategy
- Build consistent walking cues and quieter communication.
- Use manageable exposure around dogs with space for recovery.
- Prepare calm, controlled visitor routines.
- Provide structured play and practise settling between activities.
04 · Recommended pathway
- Individual follow up, a recall and control course and residential support were discussed as possible routes.
- The sources describe expected improvements and proposed work. They do not establish attendance, a completed programme or a later behavioural outcome.
05 · Owner transfer and maintenance
Owner work centred on recognising rising attention early, using the same recall and release cues and recording responses around visitors and dogs. Progress needed to become repeatable in everyday settings.