Ryan
With over a decade of experience in dog behaviour, training, and rehabilitation, Ryan Kiddell is the founder of Good Dog Training and the driving force behind its clear, structured approach. Known for his calm, confident presence and deep understanding of both canine and human behaviour, Ryan has helped hundreds of owners turn challenges into real, lasting change.
Ryan brings a unique edge to dog training with a background in physiology and behavioural science. This lens shapes the way he approaches every case — taking into account not just the dog’s behaviour, but also the environment, triggers, communication patterns, and nervous system responses that sit underneath it.
His proven framework blends structure, empathy, and leadership, helping both dogs and their owners build trust, confidence, and meaningful connection. Whether working with family pets, rescues, or high-drive working breeds, Ryan’s focus is always progress — not perfection.
At Good Dog Training, Ryan leads a committed team, mentors up-and-coming trainers, and continues to evolve the systems that have made GDT one of New Zealand’s most trusted names in dog training.
Amber
Jarmon
Jarmon, known to many as Jay, has been working professionally with dogs for nearly four years and is one of the lead trainers at Good Dog Training. Having grown up around dogs of all breeds and personalities, Jay brings a calm, confident energy to every training session.
Jay has worked closely alongside GDT founder Ryan and our team behaviour physiologist, deepening his understanding of canine behaviour beyond the surface. This mentorship has shaped his ability to identify the root causes of behavioural issues and apply clear, practical strategies that support both dog and owner.
Specialising in working with reactive, anxious, and nervous dogs, Jay is also highly skilled in shaping general behaviour and helping dogs build confidence. He excels in coaching owners—especially those who are new or unsure—on how to read, understand, and communicate effectively with their dogs. Jay’s passion lies in helping dogs thrive and in supporting owners to build lasting, balanced relationships with their companions.
Ryan
Abigail
Abigail has been part of the Good Dog Training team on and off over the past eight years, balancing her passion for dogs alongside raising her young family. Her work has primarily focused on hands-on involvement with the socialisation dogs, where she thrives in helping dogs develop calm confidence through structured play, training, and guided interactions.
Abigail brings a deep understanding of pack dynamics and group behaviour. She has a natural ability to read and adapt to the needs of each dog, creating an environment where learning and positive behavioural changes flourish. Her calm, observant presence makes her an invaluable part of the team, especially when working with dogs who need clear boundaries, social guidance, and confidence building.
Casey
With over eight years of experience in the animal care industry and nearly two years at Good Dog Training, Casey plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth daily operation of our kennel and care services. Her background includes working in multiple kennels and dog daycares, where she developed a strong foundation in high-standard dog care, prioritising health, safety, and overall well-being.
As Canine Operations Coordinator, Casey is responsible for overseeing the daily care routines, ensuring every dog’s physical, emotional, and social needs are met. Her attention to detail, genuine love for animals, and commitment to excellence help create a space where owners can trust their dogs are not just safe, but truly thriving. Passionate about all aspects of dog welfare, Casey is a calm and reliable presence that both dogs and humans can count on.
Cj
CJ began her journey in the dog world as a dedicated SPCA volunteer for four years, where they developed foundational skills in reading canine body language and basic training techniques. Nearly two years ago, she joined the team at Good Dog Training and have since grown into a skilled trainer with a deep understanding of behaviour, communication, and dog-human relationships.
Working closely alongside our founder, Ryan, CJ has expanded their ability to identify the function behind behaviours and interpret more subtle body language cues. They are passionate about improving the lives of both dogs and their owners, taking pride in guiding progress and creating lasting change. CJ thrives on seeing growth in each dog and supporting owners every step of the way toward building a harmonious life together.
Charne
Charne has spent the past three years immersed in the world of dog training, working with dogs both one-on-one and in group or pack environments. With a natural instinct for reading dog body language and a calm, confident approach, she excels in helping dogs socialise appropriately and thrive in structured group settings.
Charne has developed her skills under the guidance of some of the best in the industry and credits her own dog as one of her greatest teachers. Her passion lies in helping people build stronger, more positive relationships with their dogs by improving understanding and communication.
As part of the Good Dog Training team, Charne brings extensive experience in pack dynamics and socialisation. Her love for dogs shines through in everything she does, and her goal is always to create safe, balanced spaces where dogs can learn, grow, and feel at ease.
Khanna
Khanna brings over nine years of experience in the animal care industry, beginning her career in veterinary care before shifting her focus exclusively to working with dogs in the past three years. Her journey started in indoor doggy daycares, but it was during her time leading off-leash adventure pack walks that her true passion for dog training ignited.
Helping owners understand and connect with their unique dogs became a driving force for Khanna. Since joining the team at Good Dog Training as a Junior Trainer, she has expanded her knowledge of canine behaviour and training in powerful ways. Her open-mindedness and eagerness to grow make her a dedicated and compassionate team member, always striving to bridge the gap between dogs and their humans through thoughtful, balanced guidance.
1452 Dairy Flat Highway, Auckland, NZ.
