Inspiring Conversations with Natalie Gustafsson of Rock Dog CA

Today we’d like to introduce you to Natalie Gustafsson.

Hi Natalie, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story. 
Hi, I’m Natalie 

I’m a certified dog trainer who has been rocking the industry for over 14 years. My philosophy is straightforward: no two dogs learn alike. That’s why I offer customized, one-on-one training tailored to each dog’s specific needs. My passion for dogs and wolves started when I was a toddler. My parents wouldn’t let me get a dog, so I began training the animals on our family’s urban farm instead! In later years, I volunteered at a wolf Sanctuary and began learning basic obedience training at the age of 12. In my early 20’s, I got a job working at the legendary Cesar Milan’s Dog Psychology Center, which shaped me tremulously. 

Throughout my life, dogs have been constant companions. Training has not only been my passion but also a source of support and salvation. As an adult, I struggled with substance abuse, and it was my work with dogs that offered me the structure, discipline, and love I needed to recover. It’s hard to summarize this in a single paragraph (and let’s be honest- when you’re in the grips of addiction, things can get really messy.) However, I feel like that experience ultimately made me a better trainer. Through addiction, I gained a greater understanding of being misunderstood, of being scared, of being reactive, and perhaps most importantly, the love, patience, and safety dogs really needed to change. 

I work with people from all walks of life; however, I especially love working with folks who have faced their own challenges, whether that be growing up neurodivergent in a neurotypical world or dealing with addiction. I’ve witnessed the benefits and good fortune dogs can bring to folks who face challenges- better emotional regulation, a reduction in stress and anxiety, and improved social and communication skills. My experiences have taught me so much, and when it comes to dogs, I know that there are really no bad boys or girls- just dogs who need a little time, patience, and understanding. I firmly believe that no matter the issue, no dog is beyond help. When I say, ” Every dog is a rockstar,” I mean it! 

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
In world of addiction, things can get pretty bumpy. Besides that, I would say one of my challenges as a business owner is getting out of my comfort zone. Trying new things that seem intimidating is something that I’ve had to work really hard at. 

We’ve been impressed with Rock Dog CA, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Rock Dog Ca is a Certified Dog Training Company based out of Los Angeles where we believe dogs are similar to people in the sense that everyone learns differently. With this philosophy, our one-on-one balanced training services ensure that every dog is set up for success with a special curriculum that meets their individual needs. With over 14 years of experience working with animals, Natalie Gustafsson specializes in helping dogs with various behavioral issues, including anxiety from past traumas and/or aggression. Her mission is to compassionately help owners understand that it is not only about training the dog; it is also about training the human behind the dog. 

Rock Dog is a place where “Every dog is a rock star.” Natalie’s passion for music and dogs has allowed her to combine the two. One day, she plans to have a dog rescue and name all the dogs after famous rock stars and music artists. She has big plans for her future dog world, and as of know her goal is to help as many dogs and owners as possible. 

We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
Great question! Success is a process. Success doesn’t necessarily mean… “Money in the bank.” Even though that is nice! Success is feeling happy about your life in the very moment. Success is being able to look back on your journey and become the best person you can possibly be. Success is being able to count five people on your hand and know that those people love you and want the best for you and see you succeed to be happy in life. Success is being able to relate to others around you no matter how you grew up or how different you are, and make a difference in someone’s life. Success is witnessing the growth in others around you and in yourself. 

Contact Info:

• Website: rockdogca.com
• Instagram: rockdogca
• Facebook: Natalie Gustafsson

Image Credits
Anabel DFlux