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.
In this episode, Laura Rixham shares her journey from a childhood love of dogs to competing in multiple sports, training her dogs in obedience, rally, and scent work, and her insights as a judge. She discusses breed differences, training transitions, and the importance of building a strong relationship with your dog. Laura Rixham shares her journey with scent work, training challenges, and the importance of handler mindset. Petra and Laurie discuss how to manage emotions, set realistic goals, and enjoy the process regardless of outcomes.
CHAPTERS:
00:00 Introduction and Laura's background
00:01 Introduction to Laura Rixham's scent work journey
02:25 Early experiences with dogs and training
02:39 Challenges faced during training and competitions
04:05 Transitioning between breeds and groups
05:00 The importance of handler mindset and emotional control
08:13 Using clickers to neutralize emotions in training
09:25 Getting into rally, obedience, and scent work
12:03 Setting realistic goals and enjoying the process
12:04 Transitioning from rally to obedience
14:32 Judging and how it improves training
15:45 Handling environmental issues and outdoor training
18:22 Judging as a learning experience
20:12 Supporting your dog through training struggles
22:31 Memorable moments in the ring
25:29 The significance of community and shared experiences
26:32 The human side of judging and training
30:05 Final thoughts on training, mindset, and enjoyment
CONTACT US:
https://www.youtube.com/@canineconnectionpod (https://www.youtube.com/@canineconnectionpod)
https://www.facebook.com/canineconnectionpodcast (https://www.facebook.com/canineconnectionpodcast)
PETRA:
https://www.facebook.com/petrafordtrainer/ (https://www.facebook.com/petrafordtrainer/)
www.petrasdogresourcecenter.com (http://www.petrasdogresourcecenter.com)
LAURIE:
https://www.facebook.com/laurie.strimavicius (https://www.facebook.com/laurie.strimavicius)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/trainme2025 (https://www.facebook.com/groups/trainme2025)
21 Sept 2026
Episode 55: The Power of Foundations
Foundations matter. And they matter throughout your dog's career. Mastering foundation skills are critical to becoming a good handler and teammate. Creating a strong foundation sets your dogs up for success. Returning to and reviewing foundations throughout your dog's career creates a dog that is confident, motivated, sharp and animated. Join Laurie and Petra as they talk about the importance of foundations and provide actionable tips and strategies for mastering them.
CHAPTERS:
00:00 Introduction to Foundations in Dog Training
00:05 Mastering Foundations as a Handler
00:35 The Role of Self-Awareness in Training
01:04 Handling and Body Language Awareness
01:33 The Power of Repetition and Mastery
02:03 Building Confidence Through Foundations
02:29 Practicing Skills Outside of Context
02:34 The Value of Easy Successes
02:36 Revisiting and Reinforcing Basics
02:59 Dealing with Regression and Setbacks
03:25 Using Games to Strengthen Skills
03:51 The Importance of Self-Reflection
04:01 Shaping and Problem Solving
04:02 Avoiding Common Training Pitfalls
04:05 The Role of Consistency and Focus
04:14 Handling Mistakes Gracefully
04:39 The Continuous Nature of Mastery
04:40 Balancing Hard and Easy Training Days
04:41 Weekly Review and Planning
05:07 Final Tips for Building Strong Foundations
CONTACT US:
https://www.youtube.com/@canineconnectionpod (https://www.youtube.com/@canineconnectionpod)
https://www.facebook.com/canineconnectionpodcast (https://www.facebook.com/canineconnectionpodcast)
PETRA:
https://www.facebook.com/petrafordtrainer/ (https://www.facebook.com/petrafordtrainer/)
www.petrasdogresourcecenter.com (http://www.petrasdogresourcecenter.com)
LAURIE:
https://www.facebook.com/laurie.strimavicius (https://www.facebook.com/laurie.strimavicius)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/trainme2025 (https://www.facebook.com/groups/trainme2025)
15 Sept 2026
Episode 54: Interview with Hannah Nordstrom
Hannah Nordstrom shares her journey from a passionate first-time dog owner to a rally competitor and instructor as well as FAST CAT competitor. Hannah and her Bedlington Terrier Breitling have already accomplished great things! Her passion, positivity and enthusiasm for Breitling and dog training is evident in all she does. Hannah emphasizes the importance of creating a foundation based on building and maintaining a trusting relationship. relationship. In this episode, Hannah and Petra discuss the importance of engagement, relationship-building, and understanding your dog's unique personality in training and dog sports. They share insights on how to foster a positive training environment and the value of patience and consistency. Hannah is also a wonderful ambassador for all dog sports. Her enthusiasm is infectious!
CHAPTERS:
00:00 Introduction and Hannah's background in dog sports
01:54 Hannah's journey from puppy to rally champion
02:52 How environment challenges reveal training gaps
03:56 The structure and excitement of the Rock Invitational
05:55 The importance of venue and environment in competitions
06:58 Dogs choosing their handlers and the importance of patience
08:00 Fast Cat and other sports Hannah competes in
09:53 The significance of fitness and muscle building
12:07 Breed traits and unique characteristics of Bedlington Terriers
12:34 Managing arousal and environment for success
14:08 Building a relationship based on trust and confidence
16:01 The role of socialization and exposure in training
16:04 The significance of giving dogs time to engage
17:53 Handling distractions and environmental challenges
19:56 Engagement and focus in rally and obedience
20:22 Breed differences and individual personalities
22:01 The importance of relationship over exercises
23:56 Training strategies: breaking down signs and cues
24:17 The impact of social media on dog training perceptions
26:14 Long-term vision and sacrificing immediate wins
27:47 Communication and understanding between handler and dog
28:16 Celebrating small wins and building confidence
30:00 Adapting training to breed and individual needs
32:03 Creating positive associations and neutralizing fears
32:32 The importance of positive reinforcement and relationship
34:02 The value of patience and incremental progress
35:52 The impact of environment and competition stress
36:19 Final thoughts and encouragement for trainers and owners
38:12 Final thoughts on relationship, engagement, and success in dog sports
CONTACT US:
https://www.youtube.com/@canineconnectionpod (https://www.youtube.com/@canineconnectionpod)
https://www.facebook.com/canineconnectionpodcast (https://www.facebook.com/canineconnectionpodcast)
PETRA:
https://www.facebook.com/petrafordtrainer/ (https://www.facebook.com/petrafordtrainer/)
www.petrasdogresourcecenter.com (http://www.petrasdogresourcecenter.com)
LAURIE:
https://www.facebook.com/laurie.strimavicius (https://www.facebook.com/laurie.strimavicius)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/trainme2025 (https://www.facebook.com/groups/trainme2025)
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
4,928
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
14 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
1 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 67 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
70
Social presence
0
YouTube
74
Engagement
85
Contact Canine Connection Podcast
Guest appearances
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