Canine Connection Podcast

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.
CHAPTERS:
00:00 Introduction to Crystal Wing
01:11 Transitioning from Teaching to Dog Training
03:56 The Importance of Taking Risks
07:43 Finding Safety and Comfort in Change
11:04 Creativity in Dog Training
16:15 Curiosity as a Tool for Creativity
21:36 The Role of Critical Analysis in Training
28:32 Staying Present and Mindful in Training
29:44 Mindfulness and Sensory Awareness
31:32 The Importance of Paying Attention to Dogs
33:08 Video Analysis in Dog Training
35:45 Mastering One Skill at a Time
36:37 Compassion in Training
38:46 Curiosity and Continuous Learning
41:14 Shifting from Judgment to Curiosity
44:19 Emotional Awareness in Training
46:13 The Role of Mistakes in Learning
49:31 Creating a Weightless Training Environment
52:00 Embracing Nervousness and Uncertainty
54:10 The Art of Observation in Dog Training
01:02:12 Understanding Dog Communication
01:05:09 The Importance of Intent and Confidence
01:09:21 Building Skills: Curiosity, Creativity, and Confidence
01:13:05 The Impact of Self-Perception on Training
01:15:40 Generosity in Observations and Learning
01:18:08 Innovative Teaching Techniques for Better Understanding
FOLLOW 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

In this episode of the Canine Connection podcast, Petra and Laurie dive into the concept of variable reinforcement in dog training. They discuss the importance of unpredictability in reinforcement, how to recognize and address struggles in dogs, and the role of cookies in training. The conversation emphasizes building confidence through challenges, creating self-reinforcing behaviors, and the need for mindfulness in reinforcement strategies. They also explore the impact of predictability on performance and provide practical strategies for implementing a variable reinforcement schedule. The episode concludes with insights on teaching through confidence and the importance of planning in training sessions.

CHAPTERS:
00:00 Understanding Variable Reinforcement
02:43 The Importance of Unpredictability in Training
05:51 The Role of Struggle in Learning
08:26 Building Confidence Through Variable Reinforcement
11:11 Creating Self-Reinforcing Behaviors
14:05 Mindfulness in Reinforcement
16:55 The Power of Surprise in Training
19:57 Managing Expectations in Training
22:40 The Balance of Reinforcement
25:22 Teaching Through Tricks
28:18 The Mindset Shift in Training
31:02 Using Praise as Reinforcement
33:50 Planning Your Reinforcement Schedule
36:33 Avoiding Predictability in Training
39:28 Encouraging Persistence in Dogs
42:13 The Journey to Variable Reinforcement
45:03 Final Thoughts on Training Mindfulness
FOLLOW 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

In this episode of the Canine Connection podcast, Laurie and Petra interview Laura Holder, a conservation dog handler who discusses her unique work with dogs in environmental conservation. Laura shares her journey from corporate America to training dogs for various detection tasks, including bumblebee nest detection and turtle monitoring. The conversation explores the importance of understanding dog behavior, the challenges of fieldwork, and the benefits of nose work for building confidence in dogs. Listeners will gain insights into the collaborative nature of conservation projects and the vital role that dogs play in protecting endangered species. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into the fascinating world of dog training, focusing on the incredible memory and unique personalities of dogs. They discuss the importance of observing dog behavior, innovative training techniques in nose work, and the role of breed in shaping a dog's abilities. The conversation also touches on the mental management required in dog training and the balance between passion and professionalism in the field. Listeners are encouraged to appreciate their dogs as teachers and to observe not only their own dogs but others as well to enhance their training skills.
CHAPTERS:
00:00 Introduction to Conservation with Dogs
02:11 Laura's Journey into Dog Training
03:23 The Role of Conservation Dogs
05:13 Ernie's Conservation Work
07:21 Training Dogs for Multiple Species
09:13 Verifying Bumblebee Nests
11:06 Planning Field Work with Dogs
12:29 Field Work Dynamics
13:32 Weather Challenges in Conservation Work
15:27 Energy Management for Working Dogs
17:10 Teaching Dogs to Range
19:31 Self-Taught Skills in Conservation
21:28 Reading Your Dog's Behavior
23:46 The Humbling Nature of Nose Work
25:38 Encouraging Independent Problem Solving
27:20 Building Confidence in Dogs
28:50 Handling Dog Stress in Training
30:34 Resilience in Dog Training
32:21 The Benefits of Nose Work
34:42 Integrating Nose Work with Other Sports
36:40 Final Thoughts on Training and Conservation
40:31 The Incredible Memory of Dogs
42:46 Understanding Dog Personalities in Training
44:38 The Importance of Observing Dog Behavior
48:44 Innovative Training Techniques in Nose Work
54:27 The Role of Breed in Dog Training
59:07 Managing Expectations and Mental Resilience
01:06:07 Balancing Passion and Professionalism
01:13:37 The Journey of Self-Awareness in Dog Training
FOLLOW 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

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 Journey
02:15 Caitlin's Government Puppy Program
03:27 The Importance of Breeding for Detection Work
08:00 Domestic Breeding Initiative Explained
13:53 Raising Puppies for Performance vs. Detection
18:51 The Ideal Traits for Detection Dogs
24:56 Challenges in Selecting the Right Puppy
27:37 The Challenge of Managing High-Energy Dogs
30:18 Understanding Drive and Arousal in Dogs
36:08 The Importance of Efficiency in Dog Training
41:05 Selecting the Right Puppy for Your Lifestyle
50:57 The Emotional Decision of Choosing a Puppy
52:33 Understanding Dog Behavior and Owner Expectations
57:20 The Importance of Responsible Breeding Practices
01:02:20 Finding the Right Fit: Matching Dogs to Owners
01:06:52 Educating Yourself Before Getting a Dog
01:08:08 Understanding Consumer Education in Dog Breeding
01:10:29 The Role of Breeders in Dog Selection
01:12:57 The Importance of Clear Communication with Breeders
01:14:50 Observing Puppy Behavior for Better Selection
01:19:12 Identifying Traits for Performance Dogs
01:22:44 The Impact of Genetics on Dog Behavior
01:27:45 The Responsibility of Dog Owners
01:30:45 Supporting the Next Generation in Dog Training
FOLLOW 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

In this episode of the Canine Connection Podcast, Petra and Laurie discuss the unique challenges and experiences associated with participating in prestigious events. They emphasize the importance of tailored preparation, managing expectations, and the impact of the environment on performance. The conversation also highlights the significance of mental management, building resilience in dogs, and the value of community support in navigating the competitive landscape. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their experiences, learn from them, and maintain a positive perspective as they continue their dog training journeys.
CHAPTERS:
00:00 Introduction to Bigger Events
02:46 The Pressure of Preparation
05:32 Mental Management Strategies
08:18 Dealing with Doubt and Expectations
11:09 Learning from the Experience
14:02 Understanding the Environment
16:41 Performance Challenges at Big Events
19:34 Keeping Perspective
22:15 The Importance of Mental Management
24:42 Reflections on Performance
27:35 Conclusion and Future Strategies
35:50 Travel and Preparation for Competitions
39:16 Learning from Mistakes and Building Resilience
43:10 The Role of Judges and Stewards in Competitions
47:27 The Importance of Perspective in Dog Sports
51:20 Encouraging Newcomers and Non-Traditional Breeds
56:32 Handling Disappointment and Moving Forward
FOLLOW 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