Pet Behavior Training
Just like people, our pets have their own personalities. While every dog is unique, some of their behaviors may be problematic - or even dangerous to their health.
Our animal behaviorist at Brentwood Veterinary Clinic brings extensive experience in behavior training for a wide range of pets and can provide advice on your specific requirements.
Your pet’s early months are an impressionable period in their life. Proper training can make all the difference in your relationship. We help teach basic manners, encourage good behavior, prevent problems, and increase socialization. We will show you how to teach your pet what you expect of them through consistent, reward-based training.
What to Expect During Behavior Training
Our team has extensive experience in behavior training with a range of breeds to help them and their owners live harmoniously. Whether it's a private session, group class, or day training, our animal behaviorist Ellen Mahurin can provide tips, practical instruction, and advice that can make a difference.
If you are a veterinary professional looking to refer a patient to our behaviorist, we ask that you fill out the form below:
Behavior Training Rehabilitation Options
Once you and your vet decide whether your pet requires behavior training, it's time to consider which type of training or treatment would be the best fit. Training can take many forms, including:
- Group class
- Private sessions
- Day Training
We would be happy to explain each of these options to you and help you determine which one your pet needs.
The Benefits of Behavior Training
There are a number of potential benefits to behavior training for dogs. Here are a few to consider:
- Correct bad habits or specific behavior problems
Despite our best efforts, our dogs can develop bad habits, unwanted behaviors, or behavior problems that need professional attention and correction.
Behavior training can address potty issues, running out of open doors, jumping up on people, or nipping.
Not only will these behaviors be addressed, but you'll also learn how to redirect your pet's actions to more appropriate behavior.
- Develop a stronger bond with your dog
While part of behavior training focuses on addressing negative or unwanted behaviors in your dog, it will also help you build a solid, trusting relationship and afford opportunities for continued learning - for both you and your pet.
- Help your dog feel fulfilled and confident.
Confident, stimulated, and fulfilled dogs are well-behaved dogs. Behavior training will help both of you feel more fulfilled - and your dog will enjoy showing off their new skills.
Contact us for answers to any training questions you may have.
Meet Our Animal Behaviorist - Ellen Mahurin, MA
Ellen Mahurin grew up on a horse farm in East Tennessee. She attended the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where she received Bachelor’s degrees in Biology and Psychology in 2000 and 2003. She then earned a master’s degree in Experimental Psychology with an emphasis in Animal Behavior from UTK in 2006.
Since 2004, Ellen has worked as a behavior consultant helping pets and their people solve behavior problems. She has also been a Behavior Lead with the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, rehabilitating pets rescued from criminal abuse and neglect cases all over the country. In addition to dogs and cats, Ellen has experience with horses, parrots, and small pet mammals.
In all professional endeavors, Ellen strives to reduce stress for animals and the people who care for them, foster communication between pets and people, and strengthen the human-animal bond. Ellen lives in Franklin with her two exceptional teenagers, one devoted dog, one calm therapy cat, and one incredibly entertaining calico.