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 40: Increasing Reinforcement in Rally & All Sports
JUN 1, 2026
Episode 40: Increasing Reinforcement in Rally & All Sports
<p>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!!</p><p>CHAPTERS:</p><p>0:11 Introduction and Overview</p><p>1:08 Common Training Mistakes</p><p>2:30 Importance of Engagement</p><p>6:42 Breaking Behaviors Down</p><p>19:33 Challenges in Rally Training</p><p>30:16 Strategies for Success</p><p>47:24 Conclusions and Final Thoughts</p><p>CONTACT 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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48 MIN
Episode 39: Reducing Reinforcement, Part 2
MAY 11, 2026
Episode 39: Reducing Reinforcement, Part 2
<p>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.</p><p>CHAPTERS:</p><p>00:00 Understanding Reinforcement Value</p><p>02:41 Building Expectations in Dog Training</p><p>06:08 The Importance of Tracking Progress</p><p>09:01 Adjusting Reinforcement Strategies</p><p>09:14 Rapid Progression in Dog Training</p><p>11:24 Overcoming Fear and Mistakes in Training</p><p>14:58 The Importance of Going Back in Training</p><p>18:07 Building Confidence Through Reinforcement</p><p>21:56 Incorporating Motion and Games in Training</p><p>24:12 Understanding Dog Preferences for Praise</p><p>28:09 The Role of Variable Reinforcement</p><p>32:01 Chaining Exercises for Better Learning</p><p>35:40 Developing a Variable Reinforcement Strategy</p><p>40:00 Creating Better Habits in Training</p><p>48:42 Mindfulness in Reinforcement Strategies</p><p>CONTACT 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>
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50 MIN
Episode 38: Reducing Reinforcement, Part 1
MAY 4, 2026
Episode 38: Reducing Reinforcement, Part 1
<p>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.</p><p>CHAPTERS:</p><p>00:00 Understanding Reinforcement</p><p>03:06 Mindfulness in Reinforcement</p><p>06:06 The Emotional Component of Reinforcement</p><p>09:09 The Confusion of Reinforcement</p><p>12:02 The Importance of Variable Reinforcement</p><p>15:08 Separation of Marker and Reinforcer</p><p>18:02 Praise and Relationship in Training</p><p>22:56 Engaging with Your Dog: The Importance of Eye Contact</p><p>24:29 The Anticipation Factor: Delaying Reinforcement</p><p>26:14 Building Habits: When Reinforcement is No Longer Needed</p><p>28:35 Making Training Fun: Tricks as Reinforcers</p><p>31:51 Encouraging Effort: Asking for More from Your Dog</p><p>34:13 The Power of Struggle: Building Problem Solvers</p><p>37:00 Avoiding Learned Helplessness: Empowering Your Dog</p><p>40:34 Celebrating Success: The Joy of Problem Solving</p><p>42:59 Navigating Confusion: Strategies for Reinforcement</p><p>CONTACT 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>
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44 MIN
Episode 37: Optimal Arousal, Reducing Pressure, Offering for Empowerment
APR 28, 2026
Episode 37: Optimal Arousal, Reducing Pressure, Offering for Empowerment
<p>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.</p><p>CHAPTERS:</p><p>00:00 Introduction to Canine Connection Podcast</p><p>01:14 Understanding Ever's Arousal State</p><p>06:21 Training Challenges and Realizations</p><p>12:00 Shifting Training Approaches</p><p>17:11 Progress and Patience in Training</p><p>20:00 Real-Life Application in Trials</p><p>25:17 Handling Pressure in the Ring</p><p>30:14 The Importance of Consistency in Training</p><p>34:08 Initiating Play and Engagement</p><p>40:43 The Challenge of Patience in Training</p><p>43:02 Navigating the Pressure of Training Environments</p><p>46:05 Building Confidence Through Motion Games</p><p>48:00 Adjusting Strategies After Setbacks</p><p>51:05 Understanding Behavior and Building Trust</p><p>53:58 The Importance of Autonomy in Training</p><p>01:00:00 Long-Term Goals and Adjusting Expectations</p><p>CONTACT 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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72 MIN
Episode 36: What We Learned At A Mondioring Seminar
APR 20, 2026
Episode 36: What We Learned At A Mondioring Seminar
<p>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!</p><p>CHAPTERS:</p><p>00:00 Introduction to Mondioring and Its Appeal</p><p>02:55 Training Techniques and Building Confidence</p><p>05:52 The Importance of Fun in Training</p><p>09:02 Creative Distractions in Training</p><p>11:59 Proofing and Its Role in Dog Training</p><p>14:47 Challenges and Unique Experiences in Trials</p><p>17:59 Mindset and the Importance of Confidence</p><p>20:59 Conclusion and Future Considerations</p><p>23:51 Celebrating Dog Achievements</p><p>27:27 The Importance of Fun in Training</p><p>32:26 Understanding Bite Work and Safety</p><p>36:15 Exploring New Challenges for Dogs</p><p>CONTACT 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>
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38 MIN