Positive Training, Positive Results
About Gundog Training in Kent
We provide ethical gundog training for both pets and working dogs.
Our focus is on training you as the handler/owner and empowering you to develop your dog and build a strong partnership based on trust, fun and the strongest bond.
We do not use labels on our training methods as our approach is entirely flexible to you and your dog, but our training philosophy is around keeping training fun and achieving success through positive experiences.
We do teach and encourage owners to set boundaries with their dogs, but through the lens of actions vs consequences. We do not tolerate any form of harsh handling.
Our Story
The Gundog Coach is a husband-and-wife team dedicated to helping you and your dog thrive, whether you’re heading for the field or just looking for a well-mannered companion.
Based in the heart of Kent, we bring over 18 years of hands-on experience in breeding, training, and working Labradors and Spaniels.
James is an award-winning gundog photographer and a qualified shotgun coach. With a Level 3 certificate in adult vocational learning, his focus is entirely on you—the handler. He believes that by giving owners the confidence and technical skills they need, the dog’s success follows naturally.
Maddi brings a unique perspective from her career as a professional equestrian coach. Currently completing a Masters in Sports Coaching, she holds a Level 3 UK Coaching Certificate and applies elite coaching principles to the world of gundog training.
Together, we provide expert gun dog training in Kent and Sussex, using a variety of secure training grounds—from open fields for puppies to full shoot-day environments for advanced work.
A Positive Approach: Partnership over Power
At The Gundog Coach, we’re redefining what it means to be a gundog trainer. For years, gundog training was dominated by a "tough love" culture and heavy-handed corrections. We believe there’s a better way.
Our philosophy is simple: Partnership over Power.
A dog that works out of joy and trust is faster, more stylish, and far more reliable than one that works out of fear. Whether we’re working on spaniel training or labrador gundog training, our methods are success-based.
This means we set your dog up to win every single time, building their confidence alongside your own.
What Ethical Training Looks Like With Us:
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Success-Based Learning: We break skills down so your dog can’t help but get it right.
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Clear Communication: We teach a "three-language" system using voice, whistle, and hand signals.
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Actions vs. Consequences: We encourage boundaries, but we never tolerate harsh handling.
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Flexible & Fun: We don't stick to rigid labels. Every dog is an individual, and our training adapts to fit their unique personality and your specific goals.
Whether you are looking for gundog training for beginners or advanced remote coaching, our goal is to help you build a bond where your dog wants to work with you, not because they have to, but because they love the game.
Maddi
Maddi has spent most of her career as a professional equestrian coach focussing on dressage and has bred, owned, trained and worked gundogs for over 18 years.
Maddi's expertise is around empowering owners to consider their own training techniques and develop their own style whilst remaining ethical, positive and with a focus on animal welfare.
Maddi holds a level 3 UK Coaching Certificate and is currrently studying a Masters in Sports Coaching at Stirling University.
Meet the Team
James
James has owned, trained and worked labradors and spaniels for over 18 years. He is also a well-renowned award-winning gundog photographer.
James is also a qualified shotgun coach and has worked his dogs on shoots of all sizes.
James holds a level 3 certificate in adult vocational learning and focusses on teaching owners how to train their dogs and giving them the confidence to successfully enjoy and work their dogs.