About Annie and Your Whole Dog

Helping Wellington and Hutt Valley dogs thrive with massage, fitness, and behaviour support

At Your Whole Dog, I help dogs feel better in their bodies and more confident in the world. 

Whether you’re puzzled over your dog’s behaviour, managing a senior dog’s mobility, or looking for a fitness plan for your energetic pup, I’m here to help.

Whatever brought you here, I get it - and I can help

I specialise in canine massage therapy, fitness training, and positive behaviour consulting.

I work across Wellington, with dogs in their own homes to keep things as stress-free as possible. By meeting your dog where they feel most comfortable, I can better understand their needs and help both of you thrive.

If you’re looking for holistic, compassionate, and tailored support, I’ve got you covered.

Training minds, healing bodies, strengthening bonds

Hi, I’m Annie.

I’m a canine massage therapist, fitness trainer, and behaviour consultant dedicated to supporting dogs in a way that’s kind, effective, and sustainable.

Dogs with challenges aren’t “problems” to fix. They're living, feeling beings who deserve to feel safe, comfortable and understood. That’s why I look at your whole dog - their physical health, their emotional wellbeing, and their individual needs - in order to create tailored solutions that work for both of you.

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My approach is different, and it's dog-led

I work with your dog. I teach them how to be an active, willing partner. 

Whether it’s massage, fitness exercises, grooming, or vet handling, I prioritise their comfort, ensuring they’re a willing participant rather than being forced into something stressful.

Using an integrated approach to support your dog’s wellbeing

Massage and mobility: Relieving pain, improving movement, and building strength through tailored bodywork and fitness plans.

Training and behaviour: Addressing behaviour challenges by uncovering root causes - often related to unmet needs or health issues - and creating practical, effective plans.

Enrichment plans:  Helping you meet your dog’s physical and emotional needs through activities that bring them joy.

Empowering participation: Teaching your dog to feel safe and confident during training, handling, grooming, and vet visits.

This isn’t about quick fixes or treating dogs like they’re broken. 

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What sets me apart

I have a keen eye for detail and a knack for seeing the bigger picture. I don’t just focus on symptoms. I dig deeper. 

One key tool in my approach is gait and posture analysis. I identify subtle signs of discomfort that may be affecting your dog’s movement, confidence, or behaviour.

By address these underlying issues, I provide sustainable solutions, that support your dog's well-being.

I’m here to guide you without judgment and celebrate every step of progress - big or small. We’re all learning as we go and every improvement is worth celebrating.

Why it matters

Behaviour and health are deeply connected.

A dog in discomfort can’t focus, learn, or feel at ease - it’s just not possible. That’s why I look at the whole picture. Ensuring your dog’s physical and emotional needs are met before diving into training or behaviour work.

Dogs aren’t toasters. They’re not broken machines that need fixing. Instead, they’re complex beings who want to feel safe and understood. My approach is about identifying what they’re worried about, what needs aren’t being met, and how to empower them to navigate the world with confidence.

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It all started with my own dogs 

I needed help, and there was no-one locally who could provide the kind of support I was looking for. So, I went further afield.

As we made progress, with the support of our behaviour consultant, I dove into learning everything I could. And I learned how deeply physical health and behaviour are connected.

I never intended for this to become a career; all I wanted to do was help my dog feel more comfortable at the vet. Today, I use what I’ve learned (and continue to learn!) to help others. There’s no one-size-fits-all.

You can read more about my struggles with vet visits that led me to cooperative care, and how I embraced learning about canine fitness training and canine massage in these blog posts.

Ready to support your dog's well-being?

Let’s create a plan that works for both of you. 

Get in touch to book a session or learn more about how I can help.

Let's work together to create a harmonious household where both you and your canine companion will thrive!

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Getting to know me 

Q: Do you really come to my home? 

A: Yes! Dogs usually feel more at ease in their own environment, which means we can get better results with less stress. Plus, it’s convenient for you!

Q: My dog is scared of strangers. Can you help? 

A: Absolutely! I specialise in working with dogs who are shy, fearful, or anxious. My approach is patient and low-stress, giving your dog the time and space they need to feel comfortable.

Q: Isn’t it just about teaching commands? 

A: Not at all! While teaching skills is part of the process, the real work lies in understanding your dog’s needs and helping them feel safe and comfortable. When we address those foundational issues, everything else gets easier.

Q: My dog has been to other trainers, and nothing worked. Why should I try again? 

A: Many of my clients come to me after feeling frustrated with previous attempts, and using methods they weren’t comfortable with. I take a different approach by addressing health, emotional well-being, and behavior as interconnected pieces of a puzzle. My training is entirely reward-based, kind, and ethical.

Q: Is it too late to help my senior dog? 

A: Never! Senior dogs can benefit hugely from massage, mobility exercises, and a little extra TLC. Whether it’s easing pain or improving their quality of life, there’s always something we can do.

Q: Will you judge me if I’ve made mistakes? 

A: Not a chance! We’ve all been there! My goal is to support you and your dog, not to make you feel bad. Every step forward is a win, and I’m here to cheer you on.

Q: What if my dog hates being touched? 

A: That’s okay! We’ll work on helping your dog feel comfortable and safe first. Everything we do is at their pace, with their consent.

Q: How long does it take to see results? 

A: It depends! On the dog, and the issue. We can get some early wins that build into big, lasting changes over time. Progress isn’t always linear, but it’s always possible. Long-lasting results come with consistency, and I’ll support you every step of the way.

Q: Why should I trust you? 

A: I’ve been in your shoes. I started this journey to help my own dogs when no one else could. Now, with experience, ongoing education, and a deep passion for what I do, I’m here to help you too.

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Your Whole Dog

Cooperative care. Fitness. Enrichment. Massage.

Helping you make your dog's day better