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Canine Connection Podcast

Canine Connection Podcast

By: Petra Ford & Laurie Winter Strimavicious
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About this listen

Canine Connection is a podcast for dog lovers, by dog lovers—people who are passionate about dog training and the incredible bond it builds between us and our dogs. We believe dog training is all about communication, and we’re here to talk about it in a way that’s approachable and relatable. Whether you're involved in dog sports or just want to better understand your pup, we’ll break down training concepts that apply across the board.

Through honest conversations and inspiring interviews, we’ll explore mindset, motivation, and real-life experiences—plus share practical, actionable tips to help you grow alongside your dog. If you love all things dogs, dog training and dog sports and want to deepen your connection with your canine companion, you’re in the right place.

Episodes
  • Random Reflections: Labels
    Sep 9 2025

    In this episode of Random Reflections, Petra and Laurie discuss the significant impact of labeling dogs on their training and behavior. They explore how labels can create limitations and affect the trainer's perception of the dog. The conversation delves into confirmation bias, the importance of objective training, and managing expectations in dog training. They emphasize the individuality of each dog and the need for patience and understanding in the training process, ultimately advocating for a more compassionate and flexible approach to dog training.

    Chapters:

    00:00 The Impact of Labeling Dogs

    05:18 Understanding Confirmation Bias in Dog Training

    11:35 The Importance of Objective Training

    18:50 Managing Expectations in Dog Training

    26:15 The Role of Genetics and Individual Differences

    30:53 Final Thoughts: Avoiding Labels

    FOLLOW US:

    https://www.youtube.com/@canineconnectionpod

    https://www.facebook.com/canineconnectionpodcast

    PETRA:

    https://www.facebook.com/petrafordtrainer

    www.petrasdogresourcecenter.com

    LAURIE:

    https://www.facebook.com/laurie.strimavicius

    https://www.facebook.com/groups/trainme2025

    Show More Show Less
    31 mins
  • Episode 11: Getting the Most Out of Matches
    Aug 31 2025

    In this episode of the K9 Connection podcast, Petra and Laurie discuss the significance of matches (also known as show-n-goes, run-throughs or a friend acting as judge for a formal run) in dog training, emphasizing their role as practice events that mimic real competitions. They explore how to effectively train young dogs at matches, the importance of reinforcement, and the distinction between matches and trials. The conversation also covers strategies for planning and executing successful training sessions, navigating advice from others, and the value of observing experienced trainers. Ultimately, the hosts encourage listeners to view matches as valuable training tools rather than tests, highlighting the need for a positive and supportive training environment.

    CHAPTERS:

    00:00 Introduction to Matches and Their Importance

    05:07 Training Young Dogs at Matches

    10:08 The Right Mindset for Matches

    15:02 Navigating Advice and Pressure at Matches

    20:19 Planning and Strategy for Success

    28:59 Understanding Dog Stress in Training

    31:40 The Importance of Context in Training Techniques

    33:52 Evaluating Training Methods and Their Impact

    35:41 Finding and Organizing Match Shows

    39:32 Replicating Real Competition Environments

    46:10 Using Matches to Identify Handler Issues

    50:21 Matches as Training Tools, Not Tests

    FOLLOW US:

    https://www.youtube.com/@canineconnectionpod

    https://www.facebook.com/canineconnectionpodcast

    PETRA:

    https://www.facebook.com/petrafordtrainer

    www.petrasdogresourcecenter.com

    LAURIE:

    https://www.facebook.com/laurie.strimavicius

    https://www.facebook.com/groups/trainme2025

    Show More Show Less
    52 mins
  • Impact of Arousal on Training
    Aug 25 2025

    In this episode of the Canine Connection podcast, Petra and Laurie discuss the concept of arousal in dogs, exploring how it affects their performance in various training and competition scenarios. They emphasize the importance of recognizing signs of arousal, managing it effectively, and understanding the unique needs of each dog. The conversation highlights the role of the handler in facilitating optimal arousal levels and the necessity of observing and interpreting dog behavior to enhance training outcomes. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, they provide insights into the complexities of dog training and the importance of communication between handler and dog.

    CHAPTERS

    00:00 Understanding Arousal in Dogs

    03:01 The Impact of Arousal on Performance

    05:51 Recognizing Signs of Arousal

    09:09 Observing and Interpreting Dog Behavior

    11:57 Managing Arousal Levels

    14:58 Calming Techniques for Dogs

    18:05 The Role of the Handler in Arousal

    21:01 The Importance of Reading Your Dog

    23:44 Adjusting Training Techniques

    26:52 The Balance of Arousal in Training

    30:08 The Journey of Understanding Arousal

    32:51 Experimenting with Arousal Management

    35:59 The Complexity of Dog Training

    38:44 The Importance of Communication

    41:46 Long-Term Commitment to Dog Training

    44:45 The Fascination of Dog Behavior

    48:04 Final Thoughts on Arousal and Training

    FOLLOW US

    https://www.youtube.com/@canineconnectionpod

    https://www.facebook.com/canineconnectionpodcast

    PETRA:

    https://www.facebook.com/petrafordtrainer

    www.petrasdogresourcecenter.com

    LAURIE:

    https://www.facebook.com/laurie.strimavicius

    https://www.facebook.com/groups/trainme2025

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 3 mins
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