Canine Connection Podcast

Petra Ford & Laurie Winter Strimavicious
  • 5.0 (28)
  • Pets & Animals

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.

  1. Episode 43: Importance of Acclimation

    15h ago

    Episode 43: Importance of Acclimation

    This episode explores the critical importance of acclimation for dogs in training and competition environments. Petra and Laurie share practical insights on how to read your dog's signals, establish routines, and give your dog the time they need to succeed in distracting settings. Our dogs are not robots. They heed time to acclimate to the environment and shift their focus to us. Given enough time, we get awesome engagement. If we rush the process, the dog will struggle which creates conflict and frustration. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Understanding Acclimation and Warm-Up for Dogs 02:54 The Importance of Environment Familiarization 06:03 Recognizing Individual Dog Needs 08:58 The Role of Routine in Dog Training 11:59 Managing Expectations in Training 14:56 The Impact of Environment on Dog Behavior 17:57 Reading Your Dog's Engagement 21:00 The Importance of Patience in Training 24:11 Building Engagement Through Consistent Training 27:07 The Need for Contextual Cues 30:03 Trial Environments and Acclimation 32:51 Long-Term Training Strategies CONTACT 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

    41 min
  2. Episode 42: Interview with Ariel Wolf

    Jun 15

    Episode 42: Interview with Ariel Wolf

    In this interview, dog trainer Ariel Wolf shares her journey with non-traditional breeds like German Wirehaired Pointers and Dachshunds, highlighting innovative training techniques, overcoming challenges in dog sports, and fostering a supportive community. We talk about being creative and thinking outside the box to solve training challenges and build confidence. We talk about the importance of mindset and labels for successfully solving training puzzles. Ariel has a unique perspective that can benefit all trainers. Ariel's TikTok channel is deviouspickles...check it out! CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction to Non-Traditional Breeds in Dog Sports 02:57 Arielle's Journey into Dog Training 06:01 Training Non-Typical Breeds: Challenges and Innovations 09:06 Building Confidence in Non-Traditional Dogs 12:05 Overcoming Adversity: Dwight's Story 15:01 The Importance of Environment in Dog Training 17:54 Navigating Competitive Dog Shows 21:01 Empowering Non-Traditional Breeds 24:00 Understanding the Spectrum of Non-Traditional Breeds 27:03 Traits of Successful Obedience Dogs 29:53 Conclusion: Embracing the Unique Challenges of Non-Traditional Breeds 37:05 Understanding Dog Behavior and Traits 41:00 The Importance of Environment in Training 44:44 Creativity in Dog Training 49:10 Defining Success and Failure in Training 54:33 The Need for Flexibility in Training Methods 01:00:52 Prioritizing the Human-Dog Relationship 01:06:40 Encouraging Inclusivity in Dog Sports CONTACT 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

    1h 10m
  3. Episode 41: Interview with Annette Flippen Pierce

    Jun 8

    Episode 41: Interview with Annette Flippen Pierce

    In this episode, Petra and Laurie chat with Annette Flippen Pierce, a professor at NYU and an accomplished dog trainer, about the fascinating parallels between motivational psychology and dog training. They explore motivation, learning theories, resilience, and how understanding human psychology can enhance our training methods and deepen our connection with dogs. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction to the K9 Connection Podcast 02:53 Understanding Organizational Psychology and Dog Training 06:00 The Importance of Attention and Focus in Training 08:57 Proofing and Learning Through Problem Solving 11:55 The Role of Challenge in Dog Training 15:01 Resilience and Learning Theory in Dogs 17:56 Motivation: Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic 20:55 The Impact of Reinforcement on Learning 23:49 Confirmation Bias in Dog Training 26:57 Setting Specific Goals for Training 29:54 Conclusion and Key Takeaways 37:23 Understanding Dog Training Rewards 40:18 The Importance of Goal Setting in Training 43:43 Taking Responsibility for Training Outcomes 46:46 Assessing Progress and Adjusting Strategies 49:14 Achieving Focus and Flow in Training 52:28 Understanding Dog Behavior and Cognitive Overload 56:52 Empathy in Dog Training 01:00:43 The Complexity of Human-Dog Relationships CONTACT 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

    1h 8m
  4. Episode 40: Increasing Reinforcement in Rally & All Sports

    Jun 1

    Episode 40: Increasing Reinforcement in Rally & All Sports

    With so much talk about reducing reinforcement we often lose sight of the fact that REINFORCEMENT drives behavior. We need reinforcement! It's important information! And information is motivating. To often we are not reinforcing enough. This topic started out with discussing Rally...but quickly grew into other sports. Because it's a thing...we are often not reinforcing enough. It's all about balance!! CHAPTERS: 0:11 Introduction and Overview 1:08 Common Training Mistakes 2:30 Importance of Engagement 6:42 Breaking Behaviors Down 19:33 Challenges in Rally Training 30:16 Strategies for Success 47:24 Conclusions and Final Thoughts CONTACT 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

    48 min
  5. Episode 39: Reducing Reinforcement, Part 2

    May 11

    Episode 39: Reducing Reinforcement, Part 2

    This episode continues the discussion on reducing reinforcement in dog training. The conversation explores alternate reinforcement strategies, how to effectively reduce reinforcement and how to handle mistakes. Petra and Laurie share practical insights on building confidence, variable reinforcement, and avoiding common pitfalls in training. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Understanding Reinforcement Value 02:41 Building Expectations in Dog Training 06:08 The Importance of Tracking Progress 09:01 Adjusting Reinforcement Strategies 09:14 Rapid Progression in Dog Training 11:24 Overcoming Fear and Mistakes in Training 14:58 The Importance of Going Back in Training 18:07 Building Confidence Through Reinforcement 21:56 Incorporating Motion and Games in Training 24:12 Understanding Dog Preferences for Praise 28:09 The Role of Variable Reinforcement 32:01 Chaining Exercises for Better Learning 35:40 Developing a Variable Reinforcement Strategy 40:00 Creating Better Habits in Training 48:42 Mindfulness in Reinforcement Strategies CONTACT 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

    50 min
  6. Episode 38: Reducing Reinforcement, Part 1

    May 4

    Episode 38: Reducing Reinforcement, Part 1

    In this episode Laurie and Petra begin a series on Reducing Reinforcement in training. They explore the nuances of reinforcement in dog training, emphasizing mindful application, the importance of timing, and how to foster problem-solving skills in dogs. Petra and Laurie share practical tips to avoid common pitfalls and enhance training effectiveness. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Understanding Reinforcement 03:06 Mindfulness in Reinforcement 06:06 The Emotional Component of Reinforcement 09:09 The Confusion of Reinforcement 12:02 The Importance of Variable Reinforcement 15:08 Separation of Marker and Reinforcer 18:02 Praise and Relationship in Training 22:56 Engaging with Your Dog: The Importance of Eye Contact 24:29 The Anticipation Factor: Delaying Reinforcement 26:14 Building Habits: When Reinforcement is No Longer Needed 28:35 Making Training Fun: Tricks as Reinforcers 31:51 Encouraging Effort: Asking for More from Your Dog 34:13 The Power of Struggle: Building Problem Solvers 37:00 Avoiding Learned Helplessness: Empowering Your Dog 40:34 Celebrating Success: The Joy of Problem Solving 42:59 Navigating Confusion: Strategies for Reinforcement CONTACT 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

    45 min
  7. Episode 37: Optimal Arousal, Reducing Pressure, Offering for Empowerment

    Apr 28

    Episode 37: Optimal Arousal, Reducing Pressure, Offering for Empowerment

    In this detailed discussion, Petra and Laurie discuss teaching dogs to manage their own arousal, striving for optimal arousal in training and in the ring, removing all pressure from training and trialing, and using offering as an empowerment tool. They discuss practical strategies, and the importance of patience and consistency in training. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction to Canine Connection Podcast 01:14 Understanding Ever's Arousal State 06:21 Training Challenges and Realizations 12:00 Shifting Training Approaches 17:11 Progress and Patience in Training 20:00 Real-Life Application in Trials 25:17 Handling Pressure in the Ring 30:14 The Importance of Consistency in Training 34:08 Initiating Play and Engagement 40:43 The Challenge of Patience in Training 43:02 Navigating the Pressure of Training Environments 46:05 Building Confidence Through Motion Games 48:00 Adjusting Strategies After Setbacks 51:05 Understanding Behavior and Building Trust 53:58 The Importance of Autonomy in Training 01:00:00 Long-Term Goals and Adjusting Expectations CONTACT 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

    1h 12m
  8. Episode 36: What We Learned At A Mondioring Seminar

    Apr 20

    Episode 36: What We Learned At A Mondioring Seminar

    Join Petra and Laurie as they recap their fun day of playing with their dogs at a Mondioring seminar. Mondioring is considered a “bite sport” but it’s so much more! It emphasizes fun, confidence, and versatility for all breeds. Discover training insights, proofing techniques, and how this sport can enhance your dog's confidence and skills. Remember, training is training…and we can learn from ALL dog sports! CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction to Mondioring and Its Appeal 02:55 Training Techniques and Building Confidence 05:52 The Importance of Fun in Training 09:02 Creative Distractions in Training 11:59 Proofing and Its Role in Dog Training 14:47 Challenges and Unique Experiences in Trials 17:59 Mindset and the Importance of Confidence 20:59 Conclusion and Future Considerations 23:51 Celebrating Dog Achievements 27:27 The Importance of Fun in Training 32:26 Understanding Bite Work and Safety 36:15 Exploring New Challenges for Dogs CONTACT 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

    39 min
See All (55)

5
out of 5
28 Ratings

About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Petra Ford & Laurie Winter Strimavicious
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    55
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Show Website
    Canine Connection Podcast

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