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.
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.
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
Casey brings over eight years of experience in the animal care industry and has been an integral part of Good Dog Training for nearly three years. Her background in kennels and dog daycares gave her a strong foundation in understanding both dogs and the people who care for them — experience that now supports her role as Sales and Content Coordinator.
In her current position, Casey manages client communication, supports sales enquiries, creates engaging content, and helps coordinate the day-to-day planning that keeps the team running smoothly. Her organised approach, attention to detail, and ability to stay on top of moving parts ensure both staff and clients have a positive and seamless experience.
Passionate about dogs and committed to exceptional service, Casey helps build meaningful connections with clients while showcasing the values and personality of Good Dog Training. Friendly, reliable, and deeply invested in the wellbeing of every dog, she helps ensure both dogs and their owners feel welcomed, supported, and confident in their journey with us.
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.
Nicole
Khannah
Khannah 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 Khannah. 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.
Del
Pick up and Drop off Specialist
Bio to come …
