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.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Peggy Gibbon

02:42 Peggy's Journey to the Seeing Eye

05:10 Training Guide Dogs: Then and Now

08:21 The Role of Puppy Raisers

12:15 Community Support in Puppy Raising

21:18 Peggy's Career Progression at the Seeing Eye

26:38 The Structured Training Program

30:19 Motivation and Bonding with Dogs

35:45 Tailoring Training to Individual Needs

39:35 The Matching Process: Dog and Handler

46:17 The Breeding Program's Role in Success

01:03:13 Understanding Car Sickness in Puppies

01:04:33 The Importance of Saying 'No' in Training

01:07:09 Building Confidence Through Clarity

01:09:52 The Teamwork Between Dog and Handler

01:11:50 Genetics vs. Training: What Makes a Great Guide Dog?

01:17:59 Transferring Training Techniques Across Disciplines

01:21:09 The Impact of Guide Dogs on Lives

01:29:00 The Passion Behind the Seeing Eye Organization

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 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.

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.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Canine Behavior

31:12 The Importance of Being Normal

32:44 Understanding Dog Comfort Zones

37:02 Building a Relationship with Your Dog

43:00 Listening to Your Dog

48:55 The Power of Interaction in Training

55:55 Respecting Individuality in Dogs

01:00:02 Conclusion and Future Discussions

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, 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

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.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Recent Events

01:34 Insights from the Training Camp

06:30 The Importance of Engagement in Learning

10:24 Open-Mindedness in Training

12:31 Exploring Different Training Methods

15:22 The Role of Problem-Solving in Training

18:17 The Benefits of Immersive Experiences

23:20 The Joy of Nose Work

25:17 Understanding Arousal in Dogs

28:09 Observing Dog Behavior

30:13 Managing High-Drive Dogs

32:06 The Importance of Training Seminars

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, 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, 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

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