THE WESTERN Bulldogs have confirmed that Brett Montgomery has joined the club as an assistant coach.

Montgomery played 78 games in two stints at the Bulldogs, and 126 for Port Adelaide, including the 2004 premiership.

He spent the last three seasons as an assistant coach to Brett Ratten at Carlton, and spoke with the Power about the senior role recently filled by Matthew Primus.

Bulldogs general manager of football operations James Fantasia said the club was pleased to secure Montgomery, who will oversee the forward line.

"It is just fantastic for us to be able to lure Brett back to the club and we are very excited," he told westernbulldogs.com.au.

"Brett brings with him not only a wealth of knowledge but a tough and uncompromising approach to the game.

"He also has a personal relationship with many of our players who still hold the deepest respect for him."

Montgomery said he always had a desire to rejoin the Bulldogs in a coaching capacity, which made his decision an easy one.

"This is a group that I believe is on the edge of something very special," he said.

"While I was never able to be part of a premiership as a player here, the next best thing is to be a part of one as a coach."

Following Leon Cameron's cross to Hawthorn last week, Paul Williams has been elevated to senior assistant coach and will look after the Dogs' midfield.

Peter Dean will resume as backline coach.