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

Random Reflections: Trial Routines
DEC 2, 2025
Random Reflections: Trial Routines
<p>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.</p><p>CHAPTERS:</p><p>00:00 Introduction to Trial Day Superstitions</p><p>02:28 The Role of Routines in Performance</p><p>05:03 Managing Stress and Expectations</p><p>07:48 The Importance of Acclimation for Dogs</p><p>10:35 Creating a Trial Day Plan</p><p>13:16 Mental Management Techniques</p><p>16:07 The Impact of Focus on Performance</p><p>18:55 Training vs. Trialing: Bridging the Gap</p><p>21:28 Final Thoughts on Preparation and Mindset</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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36 MIN
Episode 21: Pressure, Part Two
NOV 25, 2025
Episode 21: Pressure, Part Two
<p>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.</p><p>CHAPTERS:</p><p>00:00 Understanding Pressure in Dogs</p><p>02:36 Techniques to Alleviate Pressure</p><p>05:18 The Importance of Timing in Training</p><p>07:57 Changing the Dog's Perception of Pressure</p><p>10:49 Games to Teach Pressure Management</p><p>13:42 Recognizing and Responding to Pressure</p><p>16:31 Building Confidence Through Pressure Training</p><p>19:06 Practical Applications of Pressure Techniques</p><p>21:38 Using Props to Manage Pressure</p><p>24:37 Establishing Positive Associations with Pressure</p><p>27:25 Final Thoughts on Pressure Training</p><p>33:57 Utilizing the Mat for Pressure Training</p><p>36:11 Backing into Pressure: Techniques and Applications</p><p>38:18 Training for Competition: Handling Pressure in the Ring</p><p>39:56 Recognizing Pressure Points: The Handler's Role</p><p>41:58 Managing Pressure in Agility and Obedience</p><p>43:59 Building Confidence: Games to Change the Dog's Relationship with Pressure</p><p>48:04 Understanding Pressure: The Importance of Training Context</p><p>49:49 The Journey of Training: From Struggles to Success</p><p>53:35 Consistency in Training: Maintaining Skills Over Time</p><p>55:45 Creative Applications of Pressure Training</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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63 MIN
Episode 20: Pressure, Part One
NOV 18, 2025
Episode 20: Pressure, Part One
<p>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.</p><p>CHAPTERS:</p><p>00:00 Understanding Pressure in Dog Training</p><p>03:00 The Impact of Pressure on Dog Behavior</p><p>05:47 Identifying Pressure vs. Distraction</p><p>08:34 The Role of Pressure in Performance</p><p>11:23 Reading Your Dog's Body Language</p><p>14:11 Pressure in Competitive Environments</p><p>17:10 The Importance of Observing Your Dog</p><p>20:01 Teaching Without Adding Pressure</p><p>22:49 The Individual Nature of Pressure</p><p>25:40 The Need for Awareness in Training</p><p>28:44 The Journey of Learning to Read Dogs</p><p>33:08 Understanding Dog Behavior and Pressure</p><p>36:08 Creating Positive Associations with Pressure</p><p>40:37 The Impact of Handler Behavior on Dogs</p><p>47:28 Managing Pressure in Training and Competition</p><p>58:28 Transforming Dogs' Relationship with Pressure</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>
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60 MIN
Episode 19: Julie Bacon Interview on Mental Management
NOV 11, 2025
Episode 19: Julie Bacon Interview on Mental Management
<p>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.</p><p>CHAPTERS:</p><p>00:00 Introduction to Mental Management</p><p>02:08 Julie Bacon's Journey into Dog Sports</p><p>05:33 The Importance of Goal Setting in Dog Training</p><p>09:06 Understanding Energy and Nervous System Regulation</p><p>12:12 The Skill of Being Present</p><p>17:21 Meditation and Mindfulness in Dog Training</p><p>25:42 Intentional Living and Its Impact on Training</p><p>28:54 Starting Small: The Key to Success</p><p>31:36 Overcoming Nerves: Building Confidence in the Ring</p><p>32:42 The Role of Expectations in Performance</p><p>34:41 Focusing on Process Goals vs. Outcome Goals</p><p>40:43 The Importance of Realistic Goal Setting</p><p>44:11 The Impact of Social Media on Self-Perception</p><p>49:21 Developing Resilience: Moving Past Setbacks</p><p>56:44 Forgiveness: A Crucial Element in Performance</p><p>58:59 Controlling the Controllables</p><p>01:00:25 Embracing Vulnerability in Competition</p><p>01:03:00 Understanding Inner Thoughts and Imposter Syndrome</p><p>01:05:52 The Stories We Tell Ourselves</p><p>01:09:57 Reflecting on Successes and Failures</p><p>01:12:06 Mindset as a Lifelong Journey</p><p>01:18:45 The Importance of Consistency in Mental Management</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.trainmedogs.com/">https://www.trainmedogs.com/</a></p><p> </p>
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86 MIN
Episode 18: Denise Fenzi Interview, Part 2
NOV 4, 2025
Episode 18: Denise Fenzi Interview, Part 2
<p>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.</p><p>CHAPTERS:</p><p>00:00 Understanding Dog Behavior</p><p>00:32 The Importance of Socialization</p><p>05:33 Finding the Right Balance in Training</p><p>10:05 The Journey of Training Different Dogs</p><p>13:58 Embracing Challenges in Training</p><p>21:36 Creative Training Techniques for Dogs</p><p>24:44 Understanding Dog Behavior and Problem Solving</p><p>27:30 The Importance of Positive Reinforcement</p><p>31:20 Navigating Training Challenges and Attitudes</p><p>34:44 The Role of Clarity in Training</p><p>36:41 Shaping vs. Luring in Dog Training</p><p>43:29 Fitness and Conditioning for Performance</p><p>49:10 The Importance of Proactive Conditioning</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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51 MIN