Canine Connection Podcast
Canine Connection Podcast

Canine Connection Podcast

Petra Ford & Laurie Winter Strimavicious

Overview
Episodes

Details

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.

Recent Episodes

Episode 30: Experimenting
FEB 17, 2026
Episode 30: Experimenting
<p>In this episode of the Canine Connection podcast, Petra and Laurie delve into the challenge of getting the same dog in the ring as in training. They talk about managing and sometimes modifying our expectations to meet the individual personality traits of the dog. They discuss training in the same arousal state the dog presents in trialing, while always working towards an ideal end picture. The conversation emphasizes the significance of patience, communication, and the acceptance of each dog's unique qualities, while also addressing the pressures trainers face in achieving their goals. Ultimately, the episode highlights the ongoing journey of learning and adapting in the world of dog training.</p><p>CHAPTERS:</p><p>00:00 The Journey of Training Dogs</p><p>02:59 Understanding Dog Behavior in Trials</p><p>06:01 The Challenge of Arousal States</p><p>09:09 Accepting Individual Dog Personalities</p><p>12:13 The Importance of Positive Reinforcement</p><p>15:24 Finding Balance in Training Methods</p><p>18:10 The Role of Pressure in Performance</p><p>21:15 Reinforcing Confidence in Dogs</p><p>23:57 The Impact of Expectations on Training</p><p>27:05 The Reality of Different Breeds</p><p>30:12 The Never-Ending Process of Dog Training</p><p>FOLLOW US:</p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/@canineconnectionpod">https://www.youtube.com/@canineconnectionpod</a></p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/canineconnectionpodcast">https://www.facebook.com/canineconnectionpodcast</a></p><p>PETRA:</p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/petrafordtrainer/">https://www.facebook.com/petrafordtrainer/</a></p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.petrasdogresourcecenter.com">www.petrasdogresourcecenter.com</a></p><p>LAURIE:</p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/laurie.strimavicius">https://www.facebook.com/laurie.strimavicius</a></p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/trainme2025">https://www.facebook.com/groups/trainme2025</a></p><p></p><p></p>
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70 MIN
Episode 29: Interview with Peggy Gibbon of The Seeing Eye in Morristown, NJ
FEB 10, 2026
Episode 29: Interview with Peggy Gibbon of The Seeing Eye in Morristown, NJ
<p>In this episode of the Canine Connection podcast, hosts Petra and Laurie interview Peggy Gibbon, a retired Instructor and Director for The Seeing Eye Guide Dog School in Morristown, NJ. Peggy shares her journey of working with dogs for over 42 years, discussing the importance of puppy raisers, the training process for guide dogs, and the impact these dogs have on the lives of their handlers. She emphasizes the significance of genetics in breeding, the selection process for matching dogs with handlers, and the need for clarity in training. They discuss the incredible training behind these dogs and their ability to quickly generalize what they learn. The conversation highlights the passion and dedication of everyone involved in the guide dog program, showcasing how these dogs truly change lives.</p><p>CHAPTERS:</p><p>00:00 Introduction to Peggy Gibbon</p><p>02:42 Peggy's Journey to the Seeing Eye</p><p>05:10 Training Guide Dogs: Then and Now</p><p>08:21 The Role of Puppy Raisers</p><p>12:15 Community Support in Puppy Raising</p><p>21:18 Peggy's Career Progression at the Seeing Eye</p><p>26:38 The Structured Training Program</p><p>30:19 Motivation and Bonding with Dogs</p><p>35:45 Tailoring Training to Individual Needs</p><p>39:35 The Matching Process: Dog and Handler</p><p>46:17 The Breeding Program's Role in Success</p><p>01:03:13 Understanding Car Sickness in Puppies</p><p>01:04:33 The Importance of Saying 'No' in Training</p><p>01:07:09 Building Confidence Through Clarity</p><p>01:09:52 The Teamwork Between Dog and Handler</p><p>01:11:50 Genetics vs. Training: What Makes a Great Guide Dog?</p><p>01:17:59 Transferring Training Techniques Across Disciplines</p><p>01:21:09 The Impact of Guide Dogs on Lives</p><p>01:29:00 The Passion Behind the Seeing Eye Organization</p><p>FOLLOW US:</p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/@canineconnectionpod">https://www.youtube.com/@canineconnectionpod</a></p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/canineconnectionpodcast">https://www.facebook.com/canineconnectionpodcast</a></p><p>PETRA:</p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/petrafordtrainer/">https://www.facebook.com/petrafordtrainer/</a></p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.petrasdogresourcecenter.com">www.petrasdogresourcecenter.com</a></p><p>LAURIE:</p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/laurie.strimavicius">https://www.facebook.com/laurie.strimavicius</a></p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/trainme2025">https://www.facebook.com/groups/trainme2025</a></p><p> </p>
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94 MIN
Episode 28: Increasing Arousal
FEB 2, 2026
Episode 28: Increasing Arousal
<p>In this conversation, Laurie and Petra discuss how many dogs do not have high arousal issues. Rather they need help increasing arousal. They talk about the power of keen observation and understanding each dog as a unique individual. It is possible to find what increases your dog’s arousal but you may need to be creative and think outside the box. They emphasize the parallels between human interactions and dog training, highlighting how dogs, much like people, have their own comfort zones and preferences. Petra shares anecdotes about her experiences with her dogs, illustrating how crucial it is to read their body language and respect their boundaries. The discussion also touches on the significance of building a strong relationship with dogs, which involves listening to their needs and preferences rather than imposing human expectations on them.</p><p>As the conversation progresses, Laurie and Petra explore the idea that training should be a collaborative and enjoyable experience for both the dog and the owner. They stress the importance of being observant and adaptable, noting that each dog is unique and requires a tailored approach. The episode concludes with a call to action for dog owners to invest time in understanding their pets, fostering a deeper bond that enhances both training and everyday interactions. This insightful dialogue serves as a reminder that the foundation of effective dog training lies in mutual respect and understanding.</p><p>CHAPTERS:</p><p>00:00 Introduction to Canine Behavior</p><p>31:12 The Importance of Being Normal</p><p>32:44 Understanding Dog Comfort Zones</p><p>37:02 Building a Relationship with Your Dog</p><p>43:00 Listening to Your Dog</p><p>48:55 The Power of Interaction in Training</p><p>55:55 Respecting Individuality in Dogs</p><p>01:00:02 Conclusion and Future Discussions</p><p>FOLLOW US:</p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/@canineconnectionpod">https://www.youtube.com/@canineconnectionpod</a></p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/canineconnectionpodcast">https://www.facebook.com/canineconnectionpodcast</a></p><p>PETRA:</p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/petrafordtrainer/">https://www.facebook.com/petrafordtrainer/</a></p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.petrasdogresourcecenter.com">www.petrasdogresourcecenter.com</a></p><p>LAURIE:</p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/laurie.strimavicius">https://www.facebook.com/laurie.strimavicius</a></p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/trainme2025">https://www.facebook.com/groups/trainme2025</a></p><p> </p>
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60 MIN
Episode 27: The Power of Curiosity & Observation
JAN 26, 2026
Episode 27: The Power of Curiosity & Observation
<p>In this episode of the Canine Connection podcast, hosts Petra and Laurie dive into a variety of topics surrounding dog training, particularly focusing on the recent training camp Laurie conducted. They discuss the benefits of immersive training experiences, emphasizing how spending multiple days with dogs can enhance learning and foster community among trainers. Laurie shares her insights from teaching the camp, highlighting the importance of flexibility in teaching methods and the value of engaging with participants to address their specific needs and questions. The conversation also touches on the significance of open-mindedness in training, encouraging listeners to explore different training methods and sports to enrich their understanding and skills</p><p>Petra and Laurie further explore the challenges and joys of training dogs, including the necessity of observing canine behavior closely to address issues before they escalate. They share personal anecdotes about their experiences with different dogs and training techniques, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and continuous learning in the field of dog training. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to attend seminars and camps, reinforcing the idea that dog training is a multifaceted journey that benefits from collaboration and shared knowledge.</p><p>CHAPTERS:</p><p>00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Recent Events</p><p>01:34 Insights from the Training Camp</p><p>06:30 The Importance of Engagement in Learning</p><p>10:24 Open-Mindedness in Training</p><p>12:31 Exploring Different Training Methods</p><p>15:22 The Role of Problem-Solving in Training</p><p>18:17 The Benefits of Immersive Experiences</p><p>23:20 The Joy of Nose Work</p><p>25:17 Understanding Arousal in Dogs</p><p>28:09 Observing Dog Behavior</p><p>30:13 Managing High-Drive Dogs</p><p>32:06 The Importance of Training Seminars</p><p> </p><p>FOLLOW US:</p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/@canineconnectionpod">https://www.youtube.com/@canineconnectionpod</a></p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/canineconnectionpodcast">https://www.facebook.com/canineconnectionpodcast</a></p><p>PETRA:</p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/petrafordtrainer/">https://www.facebook.com/petrafordtrainer/</a></p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.petrasdogresourcecenter.com">www.petrasdogresourcecenter.com</a></p><p>LAURIE:</p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/laurie.strimavicius">https://www.facebook.com/laurie.strimavicius</a></p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/trainme2025">https://www.facebook.com/groups/trainme2025</a></p><p> </p>
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39 MIN
Episode 26: Interview with Crystal Wing
JAN 19, 2026
Episode 26: Interview with Crystal Wing
<p>In this episode of the Canine Connection podcast, hosts Petra and Laurie welcome Crystal Wing, a former high school art teacher turned dog trainer. Crystal shares her journey of transitioning from teaching to dog training, emphasizing the importance of following one's passion and the challenges of finding safety and comfort in change. The conversation explores the significance of creativity, curiosity, and observation in dog training, as well as the application of art principles to enhance training techniques. Crystal introduces the Six C's framework for understanding dog behavior and discusses the importance of being present in the moment during training sessions. The episode concludes with insights on embracing mistakes as learning opportunities and valuing information over judgment in the training process. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into the emotional aspects of dog training, emphasizing the importance of emotional awareness, overcoming judgment, and fostering curiosity. They discuss how societal expectations can weigh heavily on trainers and the need to embrace mistakes as part of the learning process. The conversation highlights the significance of observation and analysis in understanding dog behavior, as well as the role of confidence and self-perception in effective training. Ultimately, the speakers advocate for a shift from judgment to curiosity, encouraging trainers to focus on the process rather than perfection.</p><p>CHAPTERS:</p><p>00:00 Introduction to Crystal Wing</p><p>01:11 Transitioning from Teaching to Dog Training</p><p>03:56 The Importance of Taking Risks</p><p>07:43 Finding Safety and Comfort in Change</p><p>11:04 Creativity in Dog Training</p><p>16:15 Curiosity as a Tool for Creativity</p><p>21:36 The Role of Critical Analysis in Training</p><p>28:32 Staying Present and Mindful in Training</p><p>29:44 Mindfulness and Sensory Awareness</p><p>31:32 The Importance of Paying Attention to Dogs</p><p>33:08 Video Analysis in Dog Training</p><p>35:45 Mastering One Skill at a Time</p><p>36:37 Compassion in Training</p><p>38:46 Curiosity and Continuous Learning</p><p>41:14 Shifting from Judgment to Curiosity</p><p>44:19 Emotional Awareness in Training</p><p>46:13 The Role of Mistakes in Learning</p><p>49:31 Creating a Weightless Training Environment</p><p>52:00 Embracing Nervousness and Uncertainty</p><p>54:10 The Art of Observation in Dog Training</p><p>01:02:12 Understanding Dog Communication</p><p>01:05:09 The Importance of Intent and Confidence</p><p>01:09:21 Building Skills: Curiosity, Creativity, and Confidence</p><p>01:13:05 The Impact of Self-Perception on Training</p><p>01:15:40 Generosity in Observations and Learning</p><p>01:18:08 Innovative Teaching Techniques for Better Understanding</p><p>FOLLOW US:</p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/@canineconnectionpod">https://www.youtube.com/@canineconnectionpod</a></p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/canineconnectionpodcast">https://www.facebook.com/canineconnectionpodcast</a></p><p>PETRA:</p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/petrafordtrainer/">https://www.facebook.com/petrafordtrainer/</a></p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.petrasdogresourcecenter.com">www.petrasdogresourcecenter.com</a></p><p>LAURIE:</p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/laurie.strimavicius">https://www.facebook.com/laurie.strimavicius</a></p><p><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/trainme2025">https://www.facebook.com/groups/trainme2025</a></p><p> </p>
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81 MIN