Emily Elkins, CBCC-KA

I’m Emily Elkins, your local dog trainer. From a young age, I’ve had a deep love for animals - whether caring for cows or befriending the neighborhood stray cat. My journey into the world of animal behavior began in 2016 when I started as a kennel technician at a veterinary clinic. There, I encountered my first behavioral dog, Angel, which sparked my passion for understanding and rehabilitating dogs with behavioral challenges.

This passion led me to become a Fear Free Certified veterinary technician specializing in animal rescue, where I worked with some of the more challenging dogs often found in these settings. It was during this time that I began my training journey, rehabilitating dogs and learning the ropes of behavior modification. I’ve gained valuable insights through educational resources such as the Aggression in Dogs Conference hosted by Michael Shikashio, which deepened my understanding of canine behavior and intervention techniques.

In 2021, I completed The Pet Connection's Internship Program, where I gained hands-on experience rehabilitating dogs on death row. I was fortunate to be mentored by some of the top canine behavior specialists and trainers in the field, learning from real-life scenarios and applying my behavior modification knowledge in a practical setting. Through this experience, I’ve developed a strong skill set in addressing a wide range of behavioral concerns, including:

Reactivity (leash reactivity, aggression, etc.)

Shyness/fearfulness and phobias

Jumpy or mouthy behavior

Resource guarding

Separation or confinement anxiety

Dog-to-dog relationships

General obedience and more

Previously, I served as the General Manager for a local dog boarding facility, an experience that has significantly contributed to my growth as both a manager and a trainer. During this time, I also passed my Registered Behavioral Technician (RBT) Exam, which utilizes Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) techniques in canine behavior modification. This certification has deepened my understanding of human-dog communication and how to adjust my approach to each individual, whether human or canine.

In 2024, I expanded my knowledge further by pursuing my Canine Behavior Consultant Certification through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers (CCPDT). This specialized certification focuses on fear, phobias, aggression, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, and anxiety. The program involved hundreds of hands-on hours in behavioral consulting and provides me with an in-depth understanding of canine behavior and modification techniques.
At home, I live with my two dogs: Jenny, an American Staffordshire Terrier with a bit of anxiety, and Doby, a German Shepherd/Boxer mix I often use for peer work with reactive or fearful dogs. I also regularly foster dogs with behavioral challenges, giving them a second chance through structure, training, and compassion.

I look forward to the opportunity to meet you and your dog, and together, work towards a happier, more balanced life for both of you!