Expert’s view on ‘friendly’ dog Alex

accused of being the owner of a dog which caused death while it was dangerously out of control. He denies the charge.

The trial at Leeds Crown Court heard that Mr Ryan, who has a wealth of experience as a police dog handler, was asked to test the dog’s reactions following the attack.

His conclusion was she behaved very differently in kennels compared with her more confident behaviour on her home turf.

Asked by prosecutor Richard Walters about his first impressions Mr Ryan said he thought “she looked a little anxious.”

Asked what her demeanour was he replied: “Very submissive, very deferential, very friendly towards me. She rolled over on her back.”

Asked what that signified he said: “I’m friendly, don’t hurt me.”

Mr Walters said: “Did she show any aggression during your time with her?” Mr Ryan said: “None whatsoever.”

He was then asked whether what happened was “in any way foreseeable?”

Mr Ryan said: “I’m aware that she had bitten people before. It was entirely foreseeable that if she had done it once or twice she would do it again unless physically prevented from doing so.”

He was cross-examined by defence counsel Katherine Pierpoint who asked him whether “the extent of the attack on Mr Ellam could be foreseen?”

Mr Ryan replied: “No, I don’t believe it could.”

Asked about the extent of the attack he said that, sadly, persistence was an important part of the “bull breed. It’s what they do. They don’t back down.”

The trial continues.