Helping you make everyday a good dog day

Hi there! I’m Jemma, founder and head trainer at Whistle & Wag Dog Training, based here in beautiful Suffolk. I’m passionate about helping dogs and their people build joyful, trusting, strong relationships — whether you’ve got a lively puppy, a family pet full of energy, a working breed or a rescue dog finding its feet.

My background and what I bring..

My background & what I bring

My training journey has been shaped by a variety of experiences — from horse breeding and training, to working as a police detective, to supporting local government roles. These days, I put all that to work helping you and your dog.
In 2020 I completed my official dog training qualification with the Canine Instructor Academy, followed by a further diploma in canine behaviour training. I now also teach on the Canine Instructor Academy training courses, helping new trainers move up in their careers.
I’m a group expert for the Ladies Working Dog Group and hold the J “Regs” certification from the Kennel Club — which gives me extra experience with working and competing spaniels in gundog disciplines.

Gun Dog Training

At home I have four spaniels of my own:

  • Nuka (5-year-old working cocker spaniel, works and competes and mother to Yara)
  • Red (7 yrs, Nuka’s brother – also works & competes in UK dog sport)
  • Yara (2 yr, Nuka’s daughter – done a bit of competing but not working yet however showing big potential)
  • Jelly (14 yrs, cocker cross – came with me through much of my career journey; now more relaxed but still helps as a “stooge dog” in training sessions)

I love nothing more than being out in the fresh air with my dogs, doing what they were bred for, and sharing that love of the outdoors with both dog and owner.

Happy gundogs

Nuka , Red, Yara

dog on steps

Jelly

Meet Ellie — Junior Trainer

You’ll often see Ellie assisting in our Life Skills and Gundog classes. She’s our enthusiastic Junior Trainer, bringing a fantastic mix of empathy, patience and natural connection with the dogs.

Ellie is currently expanding her knowledge through formal training and hands-on experience, working under my guidance to develop her teaching and handling skills. Her calm energy and attention to detail make her a brilliant part of the Whistle & Wag team — and the dogs absolutely love her!

As she continues to grow in her career, Ellie is already making a big difference to the learning experience in our group sessions, helping ensure every dog (and owner) gets plenty of personal support and encouragement.

My training ethos

Here’s what I believe:

My aim is not just to fix problems, but to build confidence — in you and your dog — so you can enjoy more good days: walks without pulling, calm around distractions, recall you trust, and a stronger partnership.

Dogs are family members. They bring us so much and in return we owe them balanced lives, clear communication, respect and fun.

Training should be backed by evidence, kindness and consistency. I am committed to the PRAMA™ (Positive Reinforcement & Minimally Aversive) approach — using rewards to bring out the best, and minimal-interrupt cues when needed.

Every dog is unique. What worked for “Fluffy” may not work for “Fido”. I’ll adapt to your dog, your lifestyle and your goals.

What we can do together

Choosing Whistle & Wag means you get:

  • Coaching walks and guided sessions that turn everyday outings into confidence-building experiences.
  • Group classes focused on real-world skills — recall, loose-lead walking, calmness, and focus.
  • One-to-one sessions and behaviour consultations tailored to your dog.
  • Gundog and UK Dog Sport training for working breeds or those looking for a new challenge.

Our promise

When you train with Whistle & Wag, you’re choosing more than a course — you’re choosing a partnership. Fewer frustrations. More confidence. More joy. More “good dog” days for you and your best friend.

Let’s make every day a good dog day. [Get in touch] and let’s get started.