We recently connected with Madeline Quint and have shared our conversation below.
Madeline, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Risk taking is something we’re really interested in and we’d love to hear the story of a risk you’ve taken.
In 2020, I took a risk that would change my life and the life of a dog named Boots. I first saw his picture posted on the animal shelter website—alone and terrified in his kennel. There was something about his eyes that drew me in, and I couldn’t stop thinking about him. Later, an animal control officer shared that Boots had been abandoned in a dangerous neighborhood on the 4th of July, trapped in sharp wires and terrified by the fireworks. The shelter labeled him as “aggressive” and unadoptable, and they were ready to put him down. But I couldn’t accept that. I called the shelter every single day for three weeks, pushing to meet him, despite their warnings.
Finally, a compassionate shelter worker, who had been involved in rescuing Boots, agreed to meet me. She told me his heartbreaking story, and she gave me the chance to adopt him—without ever meeting him first due to covid restrictions. It was a massive risk, but my gut told me I had to do it. When Boots finally arrived, they wheeled him out in a crate, explaining that even the shelter staff was afraid of him. But when I opened the crate door, Boots didn’t growl or bark. Instead, he jumped into my arms, wrapped his paws around me, and hugged me. In that moment, all my doubts faded. It was worth the risk.
As a dog trainer, I see countless dogs overlooked and misunderstood, just like Boots. This experience reinforced my belief that every dog deserves a second chance. Taking that risk wasn’t just about adopting a dog; it was about giving him the love and trust he so desperately needed, and showing others that the bond between a dog and human is worth fighting for.
Madeline, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I’ve always felt a deep connection to both dogs and acting, two passions that have shaped my journey in unexpected ways. Growing up, I was naturally drawn to animals, and by the time I was in college at the California Institute of the Arts, where I was studying acting, I began to notice how these two worlds were destined to intersect. In my spare time, I found myself volunteering at animal rescues and spending weekends at dog parks, despite not having a dog of my own. This love for dogs gradually evolved into a business as I started offering to help local dog owners by running their dogs, not realizing this would mark the start of something bigger.
After earning my BFA in acting, I deepened my involvement in the dog world. I trained and rehabilitated foster dogs, learned from mentors at local rescues, and immersed myself in everything canine. I was even fortunate enough to represent an online dog company, where I starred in commercials with my rescue pup, hosted events, researched dog products, and created a podcast that brought together dog experts from all walks of life. This podcast was my introduction to the world of service dog training, which eventually led me to VanderPump Dogs, where I became the head rehabilitation and service dog trainer.
The moment my dual passions merged was when I was invited to join the cast of VanderPump Dogs on Peacock as the head trainer. It was surreal to see my love for acting and dogs come together on-screen, and this experience affirmed that the journey I had begun was exactly where I was meant to be.
What sets my work apart is my unwavering commitment to both the dogs I work with and the families I support. I believe in the power of the bond between a dog and its owner, and I make it a priority to help cultivate that relationship. Whether I’m working with a dog that has behavioral issues, training a service dog, or teaching a puppy basic obedience, I always focus on building a strong foundation of trust and communication between the dog and its owner.
I don’t see myself as just a trainer who shows up, provides a session, and leaves. I’m fully invested in each family’s journey, and the relationships I build with my clients go far beyond the training room. I’m available 24/7 to support their ongoing needs—whether that’s helping with health tips, ensuring proper nutrition, or recommending dog-friendly activities. The goal is always to ensure that each dog lives a happy, fulfilling life, and that their owners feel equipped to give them that.
What I’m most proud of is the fact that I’ve been able to blend my passions in such a meaningful way. I’m constantly pushing myself to take risks and try new things, and each step has opened doors to incredible opportunities. My mission is simple: to provide the best care for every dog, to empower their owners, and to continue making a positive impact in the dog community. When people choose to work with me, they’re not just getting a trainer—they’re gaining a friend and ally who’s dedicated to helping them and their dogs thrive together.
Any thoughts, advice, or strategies you can share for fostering brand loyalty?
A key to the success of my business is the deep, lifelong relationships I build with every client. Dog training is so much more than just teaching commands; it’s about trust and connection. Clients invite me into their lives, sharing their personal challenges, triumphs, and hopes for their dogs. I make it a priority to be available to them 24/7, ensuring they feel supported throughout the entire training journey. But I don’t stop there—I actively check in with them weekly, not just to track progress, but to reaffirm their trust in the process and reinforce our commitment to their goals.
This ongoing communication and care create a sense of community and brand loyalty that extends beyond the training sessions. My clients know that I’m invested in their dog’s success and that I’ll be there to offer guidance and encouragement long after the initial training is complete. I truly believe that building this kind of lasting relationship is what sets my brand apart and fosters the kind of loyalty that keeps clients coming back and recommending my services to others.
Building lasting relationships with clients is at the heart of my approach, and it’s one of the main reasons my business has continued to thrive. Dog training is a deeply personal experience for both the owner and the dog, and I take the time to get to know each client on a personal level. By understanding their unique needs, goals, and challenges, I can tailor my approach to ensure real, lasting results.
Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?
Over the years, I’ve found that client referrals and a strong social media presence have been the most effective strategies for growing my clientele. Word-of-mouth recommendations from satisfied clients help build trust and attract new customers, while my social media content—such as photos, reels, and training tips—allows potential clients to connect with my brand and see the real-time impact of my work. This combination of personal referrals and online engagement has been instrumental in expanding my reach and building lasting relationships with dog owners.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://madelineshappyhounds.com
- Instagram: madelinequint_dog_trainer
- Facebook: Madeline’s Happy Hounds
Image Credits
Vanderpump Dogs Show