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 Methods03:23 The Importance of Personal Training Philosophy09:28 Overcoming Self-Doubt in Training16:26 Finding Joy in Dog Training22:36 Assessing the Value of Your Time29:06 Listening to Your GutFOLLOW US:https://www.youtube.com/@canineconnectionpodhttps://www.facebook.com/canineconnectionpodcastPETRA:https://www.facebook.com/petrafordtrainer/www.petrasdogresourcecenter.comLAURIE:https://www.facebook.com/laurie.strimaviciushttps://www.facebook.com/groups/trainme2025
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31:34
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31:34
Episode 22: Interview with Katelyn Graham
In this episode of the Canine Connection podcast, Katelyn Graham from 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 Journey02:15 Caitlin's Government Puppy Program03:27 The Importance of Breeding for Detection Work08:00 Domestic Breeding Initiative Explained13:53 Raising Puppies for Performance vs. Detection18:51 The Ideal Traits for Detection Dogs24:56 Challenges in Selecting the Right Puppy27:37 The Challenge of Managing High-Energy Dogs30:18 Understanding Drive and Arousal in Dogs36:08 The Importance of Efficiency in Dog Training41:05 Selecting the Right Puppy for Your Lifestyle50:57 The Emotional Decision of Choosing a Puppy52:33 Understanding Dog Behavior and Owner Expectations57:20 The Importance of Responsible Breeding Practices01:02:20 Finding the Right Fit: Matching Dogs to Owners01:06:52 Educating Yourself Before Getting a Dog01:08:08 Understanding Consumer Education in Dog Breeding01:10:29 The Role of Breeders in Dog Selection01:12:57 The Importance of Clear Communication with Breeders01:14:50 Observing Puppy Behavior for Better Selection01:19:12 Identifying Traits for Performance Dogs01:22:44 The Impact of Genetics on Dog Behavior01:27:45 The Responsibility of Dog Owners01:30:45 Supporting the Next Generation in Dog TrainingFOLLOW US:https://www.youtube.com/@canineconnectionpodhttps://www.facebook.com/canineconnectionpodcastPETRA:https://www.facebook.com/petrafordtrainer/www.petrasdogresourcecenter.comLAURIE:https://www.facebook.com/laurie.strimaviciushttps://www.facebook.com/groups/trainme2025
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1:35:54
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1:35:54
Random Reflections: Trial Routines
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 Superstitions02:28 The Role of Routines in Performance05:03 Managing Stress and Expectations07:48 The Importance of Acclimation for Dogs10:35 Creating a Trial Day Plan13:16 Mental Management Techniques16:07 The Impact of Focus on Performance18:55 Training vs. Trialing: Bridging the Gap21:28 Final Thoughts on Preparation and MindsetFOLLOW US:https://www.youtube.com/@canineconnectionpodhttps://www.facebook.com/canineconnectionpodcastPETRA:https://www.facebook.com/petrafordtrainer/www.petrasdogresourcecenter.comLAURIE:https://www.facebook.com/laurie.strimaviciushttps://www.facebook.com/groups/trainme2025
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36:29
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36:29
Episode 21: Pressure, Part Two
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 Dogs02:36 Techniques to Alleviate Pressure05:18 The Importance of Timing in Training07:57 Changing the Dog's Perception of Pressure10:49 Games to Teach Pressure Management13:42 Recognizing and Responding to Pressure16:31 Building Confidence Through Pressure Training19:06 Practical Applications of Pressure Techniques21:38 Using Props to Manage Pressure24:37 Establishing Positive Associations with Pressure27:25 Final Thoughts on Pressure Training33:57 Utilizing the Mat for Pressure Training36:11 Backing into Pressure: Techniques and Applications38:18 Training for Competition: Handling Pressure in the Ring39:56 Recognizing Pressure Points: The Handler's Role41:58 Managing Pressure in Agility and Obedience43:59 Building Confidence: Games to Change the Dog's Relationship with Pressure48:04 Understanding Pressure: The Importance of Training Context49:49 The Journey of Training: From Struggles to Success53:35 Consistency in Training: Maintaining Skills Over Time55:45 Creative Applications of Pressure TrainingFOLLOW US:https://www.youtube.com/@canineconnectionpodhttps://www.facebook.com/canineconnectionpodcastPETRA:https://www.facebook.com/petrafordtrainer/www.petrasdogresourcecenter.comLAURIE:https://www.facebook.com/laurie.strimaviciushttps://www.facebook.com/groups/trainme2025
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1:03:12
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1:03:12
Episode 20: Pressure, Part One
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 Training03:00 The Impact of Pressure on Dog Behavior05:47 Identifying Pressure vs. Distraction08:34 The Role of Pressure in Performance11:23 Reading Your Dog's Body Language14:11 Pressure in Competitive Environments17:10 The Importance of Observing Your Dog20:01 Teaching Without Adding Pressure22:49 The Individual Nature of Pressure25:40 The Need for Awareness in Training28:44 The Journey of Learning to Read Dogs33:08 Understanding Dog Behavior and Pressure36:08 Creating Positive Associations with Pressure40:37 The Impact of Handler Behavior on Dogs47:28 Managing Pressure in Training and Competition58:28 Transforming Dogs' Relationship with PressureFOLLOW US:https://www.youtube.com/@canineconnectionpodhttps://www.facebook.com/canineconnectionpodcastPETRA:https://www.facebook.com/petrafordtrainer/www.petrasdogresourcecenter.comLAURIE:https://www.facebook.com/laurie.strimaviciushttps://www.facebook.com/groups/trainme2025
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.