Meet Rachel Steinberg | Professional Dog Trainer

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

Hi Rachel, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
Passion is the driving force behind the success of my brand, and at its core lies a lifelong love affair with dogs. Since before I entered this world, dogs have been my constant companions, bringing joy, comfort, and inspiration into every aspect of my life.

My journey with dogs began even before I was born, as my mom fondly recalls an evening during her pregnancy when our family dog, Snickers, rested her head on my mom’s stomach. It was in that moment that I made my presence known with a kick, prompting Snickers to look up at my mom with an expression of curiosity and wonder—an early indication of the bond that would form between me and these beloved animals. I came out of the womb in search of my furry best friend. In fact, my parents humorously claim that they had to prove their dog-parenting abilities before considering having a human child, and almost 27 years later, here I am.

Growing up, Snickers was more than just a pet; she was my furry best friend, my confidante, and my constant companion. From my earliest memories to my major milestones, Snickers was there through it all, her unwavering loyalty and intuitive understanding providing solace and support during both joyous and challenging times.

Dogs have always had a remarkable ability to read me like a book, serving as emotional support animals long before the term became popularized. As an infant, my parents found that nothing could calm me down faster than being in the presence of our family dog. Throughout my childhood and into adulthood, dogs have remained by my side, offering comfort and companionship during moments of distress and uncertainty.

For me, dogs have always been magical beings, capable of healing even the deepest wounds of the heart and soul. Their unconditional love and unwavering loyalty serve as a reminder of the beauty and simplicity of love in its purest form.

My passion for dogs stems from a deep-seated belief that growing up with a dog teaches invaluable lessons in empathy, compassion, and unconditional love—lessons that are essential for navigating the complexities of life. In a world where such qualities can feel scarce, dogs serve as beacons of light, offering a much-needed reminder of the power of love and connection.

As I continue to build my brand, I am guided by my passion for dogs and a commitment to sharing the transformative power of the human-canine bond with others. Through my work, I hope to inspire others to open their hearts to the unconditional love that dogs so effortlessly provide, and to recognize the profound impact that these furry friends can have on our lives.

In essence, my brand’s success is a testament to the enduring power of passion, fueled by the love and inspiration that dogs bring into our lives each and every day.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Reflecting on my journey to this point, I am reminded of the profound truth behind the saying, “everything happens for a reason.” After returning from a transformative semester abroad, I found myself grappling with a lack of direction in my academic pursuits. However, amidst this uncertainty, I discovered a profound sense of motivation in capturing moments through photography and video editing.

Driven by this newfound passion, I made the bold decision to take time off and embark on a journey to pursue film school in Los Angeles. To sustain myself financially during this period, I took on a full-time role at Petco, initially in sales and eventually advancing to become a Dog Trainer. It was during this time that I experienced a rekindling of my passion and a deep sense of purpose in working with animals.

As circumstances shifted, I found myself transitioning between roles and locations, ultimately becoming the head trainer at my local Petco. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic forced me to pivot once again, leading me to take on the role of district trainer. Yet, my hunger for growth and challenge continued to drive me forward.

As I evolved both personally and professionally, I recognized the limitations of my current environment and sought new opportunities to expand my horizons. This quest led me to Peticularly Perfect, where I now serve as an Independent Contractor. Here, I have been able to leverage my passion for animal welfare and my creativity to develop innovative programs, such as “Woof You Found Me a Roof,” a dog matchmaking service.

This endeavor was deeply inspired by two pivotal experiences in my life. Firstly, my involvement in a college club focused on connecting students with shelter animals highlighted the immense joy and fulfillment found in facilitating pet adoptions. Secondly, the adoption of my own service dog, Callie, underscored the profound impact that animals can have on our lives.

Service dogs, in particular, hold a special place in my heart, as Callie serves as a constant source of support and companionship in my own life. Through my work, I aspire to make service dogs more accessible to those in need, recognizing the transformative power they possess.

In essence, my journey has been shaped by a confluence of experiences, passions, and a steadfast commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of animals and the people who love them.

What is my ideal client?
Someone Looking for the perfect dog training adventure. My ideal client is someone who’s eager to learn and laugh, someone ready to shake off those preconceived notions and jump into fun, engaging sessions that bring you closer to your furry family member. I absolutely love working with households with children. I find that it’s important to remember, dog training isn’t just a family affair—it’s a team event! Everyone in the home needs to be involved to help your pet thrive. I’m here to coach every step of the way.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If a friend from out of town comes to visit, I’d take them for a delightful brunch in Pacific Beach, followed by a leisurely walk along the beach to enjoy the sunshine and ocean breeze. If possible, we’d plan our outing to align with a farmers market day, giving my friend the chance to experience both the beautiful beach weather and the vibrant selection of vendors and farm stands at the market.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
In every journey, there are those who shape us, inspire us, and stand by us through thick and thin.From family bonds to professional mentors, their influence resonates in every aspect of our being. Big shoutout to my incredible parents, Dr. Todd Steinberg and Ellen Steinberg.Their decision to bring dogs into our family before I was even born set the stage for a lifetime of companionship and joy. Thank you for understanding the unique connection I have with dogs and fostering an environment where they are not just pets but cherished members of our family.
A heartfelt thank you is extended to my little big brother, Jesse Steinberg, for his unwavering acceptance and protection. In a world that sometimes fails to appreciate the beauty of uniqueness, Jesse has been a steadfast guardian, ensuring that negativity and misunderstanding do not dim the light of individuality. His role transcends that of a younger sibling; he is a defender, an ally, and a source of unconditional support
A heartfelt thank you to my mentor, Allison Weeks of Peticularly Perfect. Your guidance and mentorship have empowered me to embrace entrepreneurship and turn my professional dreams into reality.
Michelle Hartley of Golden State Service Dogs, you are an inspiration beyond words. Your expertise and encouragement have fueled my passion for dog training and service dog training, and your belief in my abilities has been a driving force in my journey. From our first encounter to your ongoing mentorship, you have been a beacon of light and a role model I deeply admire.
To these remarkable individuals, I am forever grateful for the impact you’ve had on my life.
Your love, support, and guidance have shaped me into the person I am today, and for that, I am eternally thankful.

Instagram: rachlovesdogs4life

Image Credits
Sarah Moore