Behavior taxonomy

Dog assumes and holds a sit position on cue, in front of or beside handler, on flat surface, without additional cues.

Dog assumes and holds a down position on cue, prone with elbows to ground, without additional cues.

Dog assumes and holds a standing position on cue, on all four legs, without moving or shifting into sit or down.

Dog returns to handler on cue from short distance, no formal position required at delivery.

Dog offers sustained visual attention to handler on cue, held through minor environmental variables.

Dog holds heel position at handler's left side, shoulder aligned with handler's leg, on cue, without handler movement.

Dog remains in a declared position (sit, down, stand) with handler present, brief duration (5-15 seconds), no distractions.

Dog walks in proximity to handler on a slack leash without pulling, on cue or in casual movement between exercises.

Dog transitions between sit, down, and stand positions on cue, in immediate proximity to handler.

Dog engages positively with primary rewards (food or toy) or with bite work depending on discipline. Foundation of dog's willingness to work.

Dog picks up an object with mouth on cue, without excessive mouthing, dropping, or chewing.

Dog engages a bite target (bite pillow or foundational suit target) with a full-mouth grip, holds without regripping.

Dog demonstrates recognition of one of the five K9 Elements approved odors (Anise, Clove, Vetiver, Birch, or Myrrh) presented in a K9E-standard scent tin.

Dog maintains nose contact with ground/scent trail, working the scent rather than air-scenting or visually tracking.

Dog holds heel position through a handler-navigated pattern including turns, halts, and pace changes on flat surface with minimal environmental variables.