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Canine Connection Podcast

Canine Connection Podcast

Written by: Petra Ford & Laurie Winter Strimavicious
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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.

Episodes
  • Episode 38: Reducing Reinforcement, Part 1
    May 4 2026

    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.

    CHAPTERS:

    00:00 Understanding Reinforcement

    03:06 Mindfulness in Reinforcement

    06:06 The Emotional Component of Reinforcement

    09:09 The Confusion of Reinforcement

    12:02 The Importance of Variable Reinforcement

    15:08 Separation of Marker and Reinforcer

    18:02 Praise and Relationship in Training

    22:56 Engaging with Your Dog: The Importance of Eye Contact

    24:29 The Anticipation Factor: Delaying Reinforcement

    26:14 Building Habits: When Reinforcement is No Longer Needed

    28:35 Making Training Fun: Tricks as Reinforcers

    31:51 Encouraging Effort: Asking for More from Your Dog

    34:13 The Power of Struggle: Building Problem Solvers

    37:00 Avoiding Learned Helplessness: Empowering Your Dog

    40:34 Celebrating Success: The Joy of Problem Solving

    42:59 Navigating Confusion: Strategies for Reinforcement

    CONTACT 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

    Show More Show Less
    45 mins
  • Episode 37: Optimal Arousal, Reducing Pressure, Offering for Empowerment
    Apr 28 2026

    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.

    CHAPTERS:

    00:00 Introduction to Canine Connection Podcast

    01:14 Understanding Ever's Arousal State

    06:21 Training Challenges and Realizations

    12:00 Shifting Training Approaches

    17:11 Progress and Patience in Training

    20:00 Real-Life Application in Trials

    25:17 Handling Pressure in the Ring

    30:14 The Importance of Consistency in Training

    34:08 Initiating Play and Engagement

    40:43 The Challenge of Patience in Training

    43:02 Navigating the Pressure of Training Environments

    46:05 Building Confidence Through Motion Games

    48:00 Adjusting Strategies After Setbacks

    51:05 Understanding Behavior and Building Trust

    53:58 The Importance of Autonomy in Training

    01:00:00 Long-Term Goals and Adjusting Expectations

    CONTACT 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

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 12 mins
  • Episode 36: What We Learned At A Mondioring Seminar
    Apr 20 2026

    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!

    CHAPTERS:

    00:00 Introduction to Mondioring and Its Appeal

    02:55 Training Techniques and Building Confidence

    05:52 The Importance of Fun in Training

    09:02 Creative Distractions in Training

    11:59 Proofing and Its Role in Dog Training

    14:47 Challenges and Unique Experiences in Trials

    17:59 Mindset and the Importance of Confidence

    20:59 Conclusion and Future Considerations

    23:51 Celebrating Dog Achievements

    27:27 The Importance of Fun in Training

    32:26 Understanding Bite Work and Safety

    36:15 Exploring New Challenges for Dogs

    CONTACT 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

    Show More Show Less
    39 mins
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