My story as a dog trainer
My Story as a Dog Trainer 🐾
Hi, I’m Jasmine (Jaz) — and my journey as a dog trainer began when I was 19 years old with my first dog, Dougle, an English Bull Terrier pup who came home with me at just nine weeks old.
Dougle was a wonderful, happy boy who taught me so much about patience, communication, and joy. We started our training journey together by going to puppy classes, and he eventually achieved his Kennel Club Gold standard. That experience opened my eyes to the world of dog training and sparked a lifelong passion for understanding canine behaviour.
Learning from China 🐕
My real hands-on training began when I adopted China, an English Bull Terrier cross rescue with predatory aggression — meaning she wanted to chase anything that moved quickly.
Working with China taught me more than any course ever could. Through time, consistency, and positive reinforcement, she became a different dog — calmer, more focused, and happier. This type of behaviour is often managed rather than cured, but the transformation I saw in China changed the way I viewed training forever. She was one of my greatest teachers, and we sadly had to say goodbye to her a few years ago.
Not long after, we welcomed Thor, our Belgian Malinois, into the family. He’s nearly two years old now — full of energy, drive, and personality — and he keeps my training skills sharp and definitely keeps me on my toes! Working with him reminds me every day why I fell in love with dog training in the first place.
Building my knowledge 📚
To build on my experience, I completed professional training with the British Institute of Professional Dog Trainers, which gave me the foundation and confidence to help others with their dogs.
Along the way, I’ve also:
- Volunteered with Dogs Trust, working with dogs in need of new homes
- Attended a Victoria Stilwell seminar (“It’s Me or the Dog”) — two inspiring days all about positive, positive, positive!
- Completed a Diploma in Canine Behaviour with the International School for Canine Practitioners
- Achieved a Foundation Degree (FdSc) in Canine Behaviour and Training Science with Bishop Burton College
I’ve seen first-hand how positive reinforcement (+R) training can completely change the way a dog thinks and feels. It’s not just about obedience — it’s about trust, confidence, and communication. My goal is to help owners discover these same tools to bring out the best in their
A new chapter 🦻
I’m now about to begin a new and exciting role with Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, helping to train dogs that change lives. It’s a dream opportunity to continue doing what I love — helping dogs make a difference in people’s worlds.
Every dog has a story, and every story teaches us something new.
I’d love to help you and your dog write the next chapter of yours — together. 🐾
Remembering Dougle ❤️
Dougle wasn’t just my first dog — he was my best friend and the heart behind everything I do. He helped many dogs learn calmer behaviour simply by being his happy, steady self — especially when there was some chicken on offer!
Everyone who met Dougle fell in love with him — he was a cuddle monster who brought laughter wherever he went. I truly believe he’s gone on to bigger and better things, still making tails wag somewhere beyond.
