With over forty years of experience owning and working with dogs, with a specialised focus on gundogs, Fiona’s deep love for these intelligent, energetic breeds shines through in her personalised approach. An Accredited Pet Gundog Instructor, she combines her extensive outdoor hobbies, rooted in her lifelong exploration of The New Forest, with a holistic philosophy that emphasises harmony, respect, and positive reinforcement.

Fiona’s journey into dog training was inspired by her early days training her own dogs and latterly her Weimaraner’s, Misty and Merryn. Her experiences fostering effective communication and teamwork with her dogs sparked a desire to help others achieve similar rewarding relationships. Living in Verwood, she draws inspiration from the natural surroundings, integrating the landscapes of The New Forest, and local parks into her training programmes. Whether guiding clients through fieldwork, obedience, or socialisation, Fiona’s approach is grounded in a genuine respect for the land and the animal.

Beyond her work with dogs, Fiona actively contributes to the local gundog community through her involvement with the Christchurch and District Gundog Club. She leads retriever training sessions, organises scurry events, and manages training grounds, fostering a vibrant network of gundog enthusiasts. Her outdoor adventures extend to working her dogs at local shoots during winter and exploring the scenic trails of the New Forest, both on foot and horseback.

Fiona’s diverse background, including event management, equestrian instruction, and nearly three decades in corporate sales and management, enriches her understanding of both animals and people. Her mission is to create a nurturing environment where dogs and their owners can thrive together, building confident, well-mannered companions.

Whether you’re starting with a puppy, refining your gundog’s skills, or seeking to improve everyday manners, Fiona’s expertise and passion are here to guide you every step of the way.

Based on the Dorset and Hampshire border, Forest and Field offers accessible, expert training solutions for dog lovers across the region. Our personalised approach ensures each training journey is uniquely suited to your goals, supported by clear communication and ongoing guidance. We’re committed to creating a nurturing space where both dogs and their owners can flourish.

Fiona conducts training sessions amidst the breathtaking natural landscapes of The New Forest, complemented by visits to local parks in Verwood, Ringwood, and Fordingbridge. These diverse habitats, situated along the beautiful Dorset and Hampshire border, provide an inspiring backdrop for effective canine training.

For added convenience and a truly personalised experience, Fiona also offers a mobile training service. This flexible option brings her expertise directly to your doorstep, back garden, or any outdoor space that suits your needs. Whether at home or in your preferred outdoor environment, these tailored sessions are designed to strengthen the bond between you and your dog while addressing their specific training requirements.

Fiona also has a dedicated training ground at Wedgehill Farm, situated off the Horton Road near Three Legged Cross. Here there are 8 acres of undulating grass field, along with mid to heavy cover plus woodland, which makes it absolutely perfect for all levels from Puppy to Advanced, there is ample parking with easy access from the road. 

Driven by a genuine passion for community and canine development, Fiona’s mission is to foster meaningful relationships and help dogs reach their full potential in inspiring settings. Together, we can embark on a training journey that transforms your relationship and unlocks endless possibilities for your beloved pet.

Our name embodies a profound connection to the breathtaking landscapes that inspire and shape our work. 

Fiona's experiences traversing the serene forest trails and working across the nearby shooting fields have deeply influenced her approach, fostering a philosophy rooted in harmony with nature. Whether wandering through the scenic woods or engaging with the open fields, she is intimately familiar with these landscapes, which serve as the perfect backdrop for nurturing strong, harmonious relationships between dogs and their owners.

Forest and Field is more than just a name; it’s a heartfelt tribute to the community, the natural beauty that surrounds us, and Fiona's enduring love for the outdoors. This connection fuels her dedication to helping dogs and their owners thrive through compassionate, nature-inspired training methods. Our commitment is to create a positive, enriching experience that respects the land, the animals, and the bonds they share.