Canine Behaviour & Temperament Assessments
We provide independent behaviour and temperament assessments for dogs where clear, evidence-based information is needed to support decisions about risk, welfare and management.
Who requests assessments?
These assessments are most commonly requested for:
Dangerous & Menacing Dog Matters
Supporting declarations, reviews and management decisions with independent evidence.
Shelters & Rescues
Assessing suitability for adoption, transfer or placement in specific types of homes.
Councils & Rangers
Managing community safety and legislative requirements with structured assessment data.
Legal Professionals
Independent expert opinion for hearings, tribunals, insurance and dispute resolution.
When is an assessment recommended?
A formal behaviour or temperament assessment is often recommended when:
- A dog has caused injury to a person or another animal
- A dog has been declared dangerous, menacing or restricted and further information is needed
- There is ongoing concern about risk but limited clarity about triggers or prognosis
- A shelter or rescue is unsure whether a dog is suitable for adoption or specific types of homes
- A legal dispute, tribunal or court matter involves questions about a dog's behaviour, risk or management options
What our assessments include
Structured behavioural testing
Standardised tasks designed to evaluate responses across a range of contexts and stimuli.
History & records review
Review of incident reports, veterinary notes, environmental factors and council correspondence.
Risk analysis & prognosis
Likelihood × impact assessment, mitigations and practical management recommendations.
Detailed written report
Clear, balanced recommendations suitable for council decision-making, hearings and tribunals.
Expert opinion (where required)
Independent expert input for proceedings, briefings and supplementary evidence.
Not sure if a full assessment is needed?
If you're uncertain whether a full assessment is appropriate, we can help you work through what is actually needed — whether that's a risk review, file review, full assessment, or expert opinion based on existing records.
Discuss Your CaseEnquire about an assessment
To discuss a potential behaviour or temperament assessment, please email us with a brief outline of the case and attach any key documents. We'll review the information and advise on the most appropriate assessment option and next steps.
[email protected]