About Me | Active Dogs NZ

Hi, I'm your coach Jane

Hi, I'm Jane. I've been surrounded by dogs my whole life, from growing up in the

English countryside to now helping dogs and their guardians in the Kāpiti and

Horowhenua regions.

My journey into dog training began with my first personal dog as an adult,

Scuba - a giant, sensitive Briard who taught me the power of understanding,

patience, and positive reinforcement. Determined to help him navigate the world, I

immersed myself in training and behaviour, setting the foundation for my career.

Before becoming a full-time dog trainer, I worked for 19 years at Weta Digital as a Computer Animator – Lighting TD, contributing to major films, including The Lord of the Rings trilogy. (25 years in the Film Industry) But my passion for dogs led me to a new adventure, creating a supportive and fun learning environment for both dogs and their humans.

Over the past 20+ years I’ve trained and competed in Agility, Scentwork, Rally-O, and Trick Training with my dogs. My heart dog, Ruku, a Large Münsterländer, was an incredible demo dog and my partner in working with reactive dogs.

I believe every dog is unique, and my training focuses on building confidence, strengthening relationships, and making training enjoyable for both ends of the lead.

Whether you’re looking for solid foundations, advanced skills, or just a fun way to connect with your dog, I’m here to help you and your dog thrive!

Interests

I’m passionate about giving puppies and adolescent dogs the best start in life, building strong foundations that set them up for success.

Dog sports are a big part of my world, especially Agility, Trick Training, and Scentwork, but I also love exploring the Human End of the Lead. Understanding the mechanics of training is key to creating clear, effective communication between dogs and their handlers.

When I’m not training, I’m learning! I’m always expanding my knowledge in dog sports, behaviour, and canine health to ensure I bring the best, science-backed techniques to my clients and their dogs. (see below for my qualifications and training history)

Training History/Qualifications

I am proud to be one of the founding members of both the Association of Pet Dog Trainers NZ (APDTNZ), and the NZ Association of Rally Obedience (NZARO).

I instructed for many years at Central Allbreeds Dog Training School in Wellington, teaching multiple grades of pet dog classes, as well as introducing Rally Obedience classes to the club. I also instructed Agility at Dog Agility Wellington, (DAWG) for a number of seasons.

I am a certified UK Pro Dog Trainer through Absolute Dogs (UK)

I am a certified Trick Dog Instructor through Do More With Your Dog. (USA)

I am a Predation Substitute Certified Instructor (working with High Prey Drive dogs)

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Current & Future Learning - 2025

I regularly attend seminars, work through online training, as well as listen to behaviour podcasts to keep up to date with current training methodologies.

Jan 2025 - IGP Heelwork : A 7 Day Challenge - Corinne Wrend - The School Of Canine Science (SOCS) (UK)
Feb 2025 - Shaping Skills: A 7 Day Challenge - Kamal Fernandez - The School Of Canine Science (SOCS) (UK)
Continued learning through High Performers Membership - The School Of Canine Science (SOCS) (UK)
The Behaviour Bible (3 year behavioural course) - The School Of Canine Science (SOCS) (UK)
Continuing to advance my learning through various FENZI classes, webinars and workshops

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Past Learning

10th March 2025 - 'Puppy Lab' by The School Of Canine Science (SOCS) (UK)
19th Nov 2024 - The Gun Dog Retrieve : A 7 Day Challenge - Jane Adern (SOCS) (UK)
In Feb 2023 - Predation Substitute Certified Instructor (working with High Prey Drive dogs)
In 2020 I completed Scent for Six by The School Of Canine Science (UK)
I was a long term member, of Susan Garrett's H360 and Agility Nation programs and have previously completed her Recallers program, based around training through games. I would consider Susan to be one of my main Mentors!
In 2019 we went on a road trip to the Wairarapa to a fabulous Megan Bell (Epic Agility (AUS)) agility workshop. Working all 3 dogs at their different levels.
I attended a 3 day practical Tracking and Scenting workshop by the amazing Steve White in Auckland (ProActive K9 (USA)).
In 2019 I joined over 3000 other trainers worldwide with the fabulous online 30 Days of Canine Science Challenge through The School Of Canine Science, UK.