Hi, I'm Jess
Behaviour & emotion regulation specialist. Founder of Wild at Heart Dogs.
I've been running this wonderful small business since 2019, and I've worked with so many lovely clients over the years to coach their dogs to a happy and healthy life.
Why I Do This Work
I get asked a lot why I work with reactive dogs. The honest answer? Because I've been where you are.
The walks that feel like a warzone. The tears. The "maybe I'm just not cut out for this" thoughts at 2am. I didn't just study this stuff in a textbook. I lived it.
And then I went deep into the science — polyvagal theory, canine neurobiology, nervous system regulation — because I needed to understand WHY. Not just "how do I stop the barking" but "what is actually happening inside my dog right now?"
That understanding changed everything for me. And it's what I want to give to you.
Changing the Way We Understand Reactive Dogs
Wild at Heart Dogs exists to change the way people understand reactive and over-aroused dogs.
For too long, dog training has focused on stopping behaviour rather than understanding it. Barking, lunging, and chaos on walks are often treated as problems to suppress, when in reality they're signs of a nervous system that's overwhelmed.
My work focuses on something deeper. Instead of quick fixes or constant distraction techniques, I teach owners how their dog's nervous system actually works and how to guide it back to regulation. When dogs feel safer and more balanced internally, the behaviour begins to change naturally.
A world where reactive dogs are understood rather than judged, and where owners feel capable, confident, and supported instead of overwhelmed and blamed.
Because calm behaviour isn't something you force. It's something you build.
Experience & Understanding
6+ Years
Working with every breed, personality, and temperament
Science-Based
Polyvagal theory, canine neurobiology, and nervous system regulation
Personal Coaching
1:1 support tailored to you and your dog's specific needs
The REGAIN Method
A complete 6-stage framework built from real experience and real science
Let's Talk About Your Dog
Every dog is different. Book a free call and let's chat about what's going on with yours.