We were lucky to catch up with Nathalie Schlemer recently and have shared our conversation below.

Nathalie, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Getting that first client is always an exciting milestone. Can you talk to us about how you got your first customer who wasn’t a friend, family, or acquaintance?

My journey into dog training ignited with a Nextdoor post, a plea for help from neighbors struggling with their powerful Malamute/German Shepherd duo. Those two, a bonded pair, were my introduction to the raw, untamed energy that can exist in dogs – and the sheer responsibility that comes with it. Every lunchtime walk became a lesson in control, in understanding the dynamics of aggression, and in recognizing the desperate need for guidance. Their owners, bless their hearts, were lost, handing me a leash and the well-intentioned but misguided ‘let them sniff’ instruction. But something clicked. I loved it. The challenge, the problem-solving, the connection. As I grew more confident, as I learned to read their signals and manage their energy, I knew I had to share this knowledge. I began helping other dog owners, transforming their stressful walks into moments of joy and connection.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

My passion for dogs runs deep, influenced by my French heritage where they’re integral to daily life. This upbringing instilled in me a training approach that prioritizes early, consistent socialization, fostering calm, adaptable companions. I go beyond basic obedience, equipping dogs to thrive in diverse social settings. My methods are shaped by collaborations with international trainers and ongoing education through workshops led by top experts. This, combined with my dedication to understanding breed-specific needs, behavioral issues and individual temperaments, ensures I cultivate well-adjusted dogs, ready for a lifetime of harmonious companionship.
I’m very proud of my commitment to helping dogs and their owners build strong, trusting partnerships, whether navigating a bustling city or enjoying peaceful moments together.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

My first training mentor was a whirlwind, using tough methods. He handled difficult dogs like a pro, but pet dogs weren’t his thing. I admired his skills, but as I learned more, I knew I had to find my own way. I unlearned his approach and built my own, focused on connection, not just control.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

As my business expanded, I sought a partnership to better serve my clients. While initially promising, the collaboration ultimately revealed a misalignment in our client care. It was a challenging, yet valuable, lesson in the importance of shared values. My hope remains to find a trustworthy partner, allowing me to grow and provide even greater support to dogs and their owners

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.lespawtounesdogtraining.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lespawtounes/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lespawtounes
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/les-pawtounes-dog-training-santa-monica-2?uid=mUfbJGhYM4Wk27z-fB5aPQ&utm_source=ishare
• Other: https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=b3b81d1d30ec7baa&kgmid=%2Fg%2F11jmzr4q6g&q=Les%20Pawtounes%20Dog%20Training&shndl=30&shem=lrnole%2Clsde%2Cvslcca&source=sh%2Fx%2Floc%2Fact%2Fm4%2F3

Image Credits

Yoshie Photo