Canine Connection Podcast

19h ago

In this episode of the Canine Connection Podcast, Petra and Laurie discuss the unique challenges and experiences associated with participating in prestigious events. They emphasize the importance of tailored preparation, managing expectations, and the impact of the environment on performance. The conversation also highlights the significance of mental management, building resilience in dogs, and the value of community support in navigating the competitive landscape. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their experiences, learn from them, and maintain a positive perspective as they continue their dog training journeys. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction to Bigger Events 02:46 The Pressure of Preparation 05:32 Mental Management Strategies 08:18 Dealing with Doubt and Expectations 11:09 Learning from the Experience 14:02 Understanding the Environment 16:41 Performance Challenges at Big Events 19:34 Keeping Perspective 22:15 The Importance of Mental Management 24:42 Reflections on Performance 27:35 Conclusion and Future Strategies 35:50 Travel and Preparation for Competitions 39:16 Learning from Mistakes and Building Resilience 43:10 The Role of Judges and Stewards in Competitions 47:27 The Importance of Perspective in Dog Sports 51:20 Encouraging Newcomers and Non-Traditional Breeds 56:32 Handling Disappointment and Moving Forward 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

1d ago

In this episode of the Canine Connection podcast, Katelyn Graham of Katalyst Kennels shares her journey in breeding working dogs, particularly for detection purposes. She discusses her involvement in a government program aimed at creating a stable domestic supply of detection canines, the importance of understanding drive and arousal in dogs, and how to select the right puppy for specific needs. The conversation emphasizes the complexities of breeding, training, and managing high-energy dogs, as well as the significance of matching a puppy's traits to the handler's style and goals. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the complexities of choosing the right puppy for various lifestyles, emphasizing the importance of understanding dog behavior, realistic expectations, and effective communication with breeders. They explore the significance of genetics in dog training and the responsibility of dog ownership, highlighting the need for potential dog owners to be informed and objective in their decisions. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction to Catalyst Kennels and Caitlin's Journey 02:15 Caitlin's Government Puppy Program 03:27 The Importance of Breeding for Detection Work 08:00 Domestic Breeding Initiative Explained 13:53 Raising Puppies for Performance vs. Detection 18:51 The Ideal Traits for Detection Dogs 24:56 Challenges in Selecting the Right Puppy 27:37 The Challenge of Managing High-Energy Dogs 30:18 Understanding Drive and Arousal in Dogs 36:08 The Importance of Efficiency in Dog Training 41:05 Selecting the Right Puppy for Your Lifestyle 50:57 The Emotional Decision of Choosing a Puppy 52:33 Understanding Dog Behavior and Owner Expectations 57:20 The Importance of Responsible Breeding Practices 01:02:20 Finding the Right Fit: Matching Dogs to Owners 01:06:52 Educating Yourself Before Getting a Dog 01:08:08 Understanding Consumer Education in Dog Breeding 01:10:29 The Role of Breeders in Dog Selection 01:12:57 The Importance of Clear Communication with Breeders 01:14:50 Observing Puppy Behavior for Better Selection 01:19:12 Identifying Traits for Performance Dogs 01:22:44 The Impact of Genetics on Dog Behavior 01:27:45 The Responsibility of Dog Owners 01:30:45 Supporting the Next Generation in Dog 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

5d ago

In this episode of the Canine Connection podcast, Petra and Laurie discuss the challenges of training dogs in environments where different philosophies prevail. They emphasize the importance of staying true to one's training methods, overcoming self-doubt, and finding joy in the process. The conversation also touches on the value of time and the significance of listening to one's gut feelings when making decisions in dog training and life. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Navigating Different Training Methods 03:23 The Importance of Personal Training Philosophy 09:28 Overcoming Self-Doubt in Training 16:26 Finding Joy in Dog Training 22:36 Assessing the Value of Your Time 29:06 Listening to Your Gut 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

Dec 2

In this episode of the Canine Connection podcast, Petra and Laurie discuss the intricacies of trial day for dog sports, focusing on the superstitions and routines that many handlers adopt to cope with performance anxiety. They explore the importance of having a structured plan, managing stress, and ensuring that both the handler and the dog are mentally prepared for the challenges of competition. The conversation emphasizes the need for acclimation, the significance of focus, and the necessity of bridging the gap between training and trialing to achieve optimal performance. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction to Trial Day Superstitions 02:28 The Role of Routines in Performance 05:03 Managing Stress and Expectations 07:48 The Importance of Acclimation for Dogs 10:35 Creating a Trial Day Plan 13:16 Mental Management Techniques 16:07 The Impact of Focus on Performance 18:55 Training vs. Trialing: Bridging the Gap 21:28 Final Thoughts on Preparation and Mindset 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

Nov 25

In this episode of the Canine Connection podcast, Petra and Laurie discuss the concept of pressure in dog training, emphasizing the importance of understanding how pressure affects dogs. They explore various techniques to alleviate pressure, the significance of timing in training, and how to change a dog's relationship with pressure through games and props. The conversation highlights the handler's role in recognizing pressure points and building confidence in dogs, as well as the necessity of continuous learning and feedback in training practices. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Understanding Pressure in Dogs 02:36 Techniques to Alleviate Pressure 05:18 The Importance of Timing in Training 07:57 Changing the Dog's Perception of Pressure 10:49 Games to Teach Pressure Management 13:42 Recognizing and Responding to Pressure 16:31 Building Confidence Through Pressure Training 19:06 Practical Applications of Pressure Techniques 21:38 Using Props to Manage Pressure 24:37 Establishing Positive Associations with Pressure 27:25 Final Thoughts on Pressure Training 33:57 Utilizing the Mat for Pressure Training 36:11 Backing into Pressure: Techniques and Applications 38:18 Training for Competition: Handling Pressure in the Ring 39:56 Recognizing Pressure Points: The Handler's Role 41:58 Managing Pressure in Agility and Obedience 43:59 Building Confidence: Games to Change the Dog's Relationship with Pressure 48:04 Understanding Pressure: The Importance of Training Context 49:49 The Journey of Training: From Struggles to Success 53:35 Consistency in Training: Maintaining Skills Over Time 55:45 Creative Applications of Pressure 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

Nov 18

In this episode of the Canine Connection Podcast, Petra and Laurie do a deep dive into the concept of pressure in dog training. They explore how pressure affects dog behavior, the differences between pressure and distraction, and the various responses dogs exhibit under pressure, such as fleeing, freezing, and fawning. The conversation emphasizes the importance of recognizing pressure in training scenarios and how handlers can inadvertently create pressure through their actions. They discuss strategies for managing pressure in competitive environments, the significance of reading a dog's body language, and the power of silence in training. The episode concludes with insights on creating positive associations with pressure and the necessity of observation and awareness in dog training. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Understanding Pressure in Dog Training 03:00 The Impact of Pressure on Dog Behavior 05:47 Identifying Pressure vs. Distraction 08:34 The Role of Pressure in Performance 11:23 Reading Your Dog's Body Language 14:11 Pressure in Competitive Environments 17:10 The Importance of Observing Your Dog 20:01 Teaching Without Adding Pressure 22:49 The Individual Nature of Pressure 25:40 The Need for Awareness in Training 28:44 The Journey of Learning to Read Dogs 33:08 Understanding Dog Behavior and Pressure 36:08 Creating Positive Associations with Pressure 40:37 The Impact of Handler Behavior on Dogs 47:28 Managing Pressure in Training and Competition 58:28 Transforming Dogs' Relationship with Pressure 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

Nov 11

In this episode of the Canine Connection podcast, hosts Petra and Laurie welcome mental management expert Julie Bacon. They discuss the significance of mental management in dog training, the importance of goal setting, and how energy and nervous system regulation affect both handlers and dogs. Julie shares her journey into dog sports, the challenges of being present, and the role of meditation and mindfulness in enhancing training experiences. The conversation emphasizes the need for intentional living and how it can positively impact training outcomes. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of mental management in dog training, emphasizing the need for small, achievable goals to build confidence and reduce performance anxiety. They explore the role of nerves, the significance of focusing on process goals rather than outcome goals, and the impact of social media on self-perception. The discussion also highlights the necessity of resilience, realistic goal setting, and the power of forgiveness in overcoming setbacks and improving performance. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of competition, vulnerability, and the mental challenges faced by individuals in dog sports. They discuss the importance of controlling what can be controlled, embracing vulnerability, and understanding the inner thoughts that contribute to feelings of inadequacy. The conversation emphasizes the significance of mindset, self-reflection, and the need for consistent practice in mental management to achieve personal growth and success in competitive environments. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction to Mental Management 02:08 Julie Bacon's Journey into Dog Sports 05:33 The Importance of Goal Setting in Dog Training 09:06 Understanding Energy and Nervous System Regulation 12:12 The Skill of Being Present 17:21 Meditation and Mindfulness in Dog Training 25:42 Intentional Living and Its Impact on Training 28:54 Starting Small: The Key to Success 31:36 Overcoming Nerves: Building Confidence in the Ring 32:42 The Role of Expectations in Performance 34:41 Focusing on Process Goals vs. Outcome Goals 40:43 The Importance of Realistic Goal Setting 44:11 The Impact of Social Media on Self-Perception 49:21 Developing Resilience: Moving Past Setbacks 56:44 Forgiveness: A Crucial Element in Performance 58:59 Controlling the Controllables 01:00:25 Embracing Vulnerability in Competition 01:03:00 Understanding Inner Thoughts and Imposter Syndrome 01:05:52 The Stories We Tell Ourselves 01:09:57 Reflecting on Successes and Failures 01:12:06 Mindset as a Lifelong Journey 01:18:45 The Importance of Consistency in Mental Management 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.trainmedogs.com/

Nov 4

In this episode of the Canine Connection podcast, host Petra and guest Denise Fenzi delve into the intricacies of dog training, emphasizing the importance of socialization, engagement, and creative training techniques. They discuss the challenges faced in obedience training and the significance of allowing dogs to opt-in to training sessions. The conversation highlights the need for conditioning in dog sports and the value of understanding dog behavior for effective communication. Throughout the discussion, both Petra and Denise share personal anecdotes and insights, making it clear that training should be a fun and rewarding experience for both dogs and handlers. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Understanding Dog Behavior 00:32 The Importance of Socialization 05:33 Finding the Right Balance in Training 10:05 The Journey of Training Different Dogs 13:58 Embracing Challenges in Training 21:36 Creative Training Techniques for Dogs 24:44 Understanding Dog Behavior and Problem Solving 27:30 The Importance of Positive Reinforcement 31:20 Navigating Training Challenges and Attitudes 34:44 The Role of Clarity in Training 36:41 Shaping vs. Luring in Dog Training 43:29 Fitness and Conditioning for Performance 49:10 The Importance of Proactive Conditioning 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