We had the good fortune of connecting with Lauren Harris and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lauren, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Starting Magnolia Dog Academy was a journey fueled by my passion for dogs and the desire to do things differently. After years of working with various training companies, I witnessed firsthand both the effective and ineffective practices in the industry. Each experience taught me valuable lessons about what truly matters in dog training—building trust, ensuring safety, and fostering a genuine bond between dogs and their owners.

Over about ten weeks of careful planning, I poured my heart into every detail. Combing through hundreds of symbols, I crafted my logo to reflect the strength and passion I envisioned for my academy. I chose colors that were my Grandma’s favorite, and spent hours selecting the perfect font that felt friendly yet professional. Each element of my brand was a step towards creating a personal space where dog owners would feel welcomed and supported.

At the core of Magnolia Dog Academy is a commitment to quality. I wanted to ensure that every service we offer is not only effective but also justifies the investment our clients make. Safety and happiness are our priority; a well-trained dog is a joy to have, and that joy extends to their owners. This philosophy drives everything we do, from our training methods to our customer interactions.

Establishing this business wasn’t just about creating a brand; it was about creating a community where dogs thrive and owners find guidance and support. With Magnolia Dog Academy, I hope to foster an environment where every wag of a tail and every satisfied bark reflects the trust and happiness we strive to cultivate.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Building Magnolia Dog Academy over the past six months has been an incredible journey of growth and connection. From the very beginning, my focus was on creating a welcoming environment where every client feels like family. I take great pride in the fact that most of my clients come from referrals—words of encouragement from satisfied dog owners who appreciate the care and dedication we pour into each training session.

A pivotal moment for me came about four months ago when I decided to expand my services to include canine nutrition. I believe that a well-rounded approach is essential for a happy and healthy dog, which led me to obtain my certification in canine nutrition from the NAVC. This training has allowed me to offer valuable insights that have transformed many dogs’ diets, resulting in noticeable improvements in behavior and coat health. It’s rewarding to see my clients’ pets thrive as a result of these changes.

Looking ahead, I’m excited to develop E-Books focused on dog behavior and nutrition to provide even more support for my clients. My vision for Magnolia Dog Academy also includes launching a comprehensive rehabilitation program that covers canine conditioning, behavior rehabilitation, medical rehabilitation, and more. Throughout this journey, I’ve learned to take things one step at a time and not hesitate to ask for help when needed. It can be challenging to grant myself grace, especially when I want my business to be the best it can be. But I know that by nurturing my own growth, I can become the best trainer and business owner for my clients and their beloved dogs.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
As a dog trainer, I’m always on the lookout for dog-friendly places in San Diego that not only allow our furry friends to enjoy themselves but also provide valuable opportunities for socialization and training. Here are some of my favorite spots:

Civita Park is a fantastic option for both you and your dog. With its open spaces and scenic views, it’s perfect for leisurely walks and exposure to new people and dogs, all while keeping your pup safely by your side.

Fiesta Island Dog Park is a must-visit for any dog owner. This expansive area allows dogs to run off-leash and socialize freely, making it a great place for them to burn off energy without it being too busy in one area. This open spaces allows for a casual hike while your dog has gated access to the beach and grassy area.

Mast Park offers a lovely and peaceful environment with plenty of trails and grass for dogs to explore. It’s an excellent spot for practicing recall and enjoying some outdoor training in a safe setting.

Balboa Park is not just for humans—it’s dog-friendly too! With beautiful paths and lush gardens, you can take your pup for a stroll while exposing them to new sights and sounds, which is invaluable for their development.

For dog nutrition, I highly recommend visiting Healthy Pet Pantry, IB Pet, or Dexter’s Deli. These stores are filled with resources for dog owners, offering everything from raw bones and healthy supplements to fresh food options. They’re great places to find nutrition that supports your dog’s overall well-being, and the knowledgeable staff can help guide you in making the best choices for your furry friend.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to take a moment to give a heartfelt shoutout to my amazing friend Courtney at Quality K9 Training! Our journey began when we worked together at a previous training company, and it’s been such a privilege to have her as both a colleague and a friend. Courtney’s dedication to her craft and her passion for helping dogs shine through in everything she does. We love to collaborate, constantly bouncing training ideas off each other and sharing innovative techniques that push us both to improve. It’s truly inspiring to have someone like her in my corner, encouraging me to grow and evolve as a trainer. I’m incredibly proud to know Courtney and grateful for the knowledge and support she brings to our shared mission of making a positive impact in the world of dog training. Keep shining, Courtney!

Website: https://www.magnoliadogacademy.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/magnoliadogacademy/

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/magnolia-dog-academy-el-cajon?osq=magnolia+dog+academy&override_cta=Request+information

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSoCal is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.