In this Episode, I'm joined by Special Guest, Chris Tucci. Chris and I have a very open and intriguing conversation about our experiences with reactive and/or aggressive dogs in classes, seminars and competition. We break it down and have some tips to share for keeping yourself and your dog safe in the high energy environments of dog agility competition.

This episode discusses the why, when and how of Start Routines to achieve Peak Performance in the agility ring. Crafting the perfect one for your dog greatly depends on their individual needs. Experimentation and proofing a Start Routine can lead to a faster more connected run.

Yerkes-Dodson Law of Peak Performance:

https://www.canineculturecompany.com/Podcast

Ring Impulse Control (Over-excited & wild) Online class:

https://canine-culture.thinkific.com/courses/ring-impulse-control

Ring Stressed! (anxious, slow) Online Class

https://canine-culture.thinkific.com/courses/ring-stressed

In this episode, I discuss a phenomenon I've coined, "Barrier Reinforcement Frustration". I will identify what it is and how you can avoid creating the situation that causes anxiety and frustration in our agility partners.

Want to train with me? I teach seminars nationwide and have a robust online classroom. I specialize in canine performance problems in agility. You can find me here:

https://www.canineculturecompany.com/

In this episode, I discuss what a "real" socialized dog is and what it is not. Can your dog mind its business and what should that look like. Balancing out real life with dog sports so your dog can be resilient in every environment. The true socialized dog will excel in dog sports.

Online Classroom:

https://canine-culture.thinkific.com/

My Website:

https://www.canineculturecompany.com/

In this episode, I dive into strengthening the partnership with your teammate by improving a critical component of your handling. I'm talking about the agility specific training for handler fitness with expert, Liz Joyce, founder of Canine Handler Fitness. Liz will share her insights into how fitness will improve your handling but also improve your overall health. Find Liz here: https://caninehandlerfitness.com/

Find more about Laura's seminars and online classes here:

https://www.canineculturecompany.com/

In this Episode, I get the inside scoop on the historic European Open with Team USA member and World Champion, Dudley Shumate. We discuss the rise of USA Agility's success on the world stage, the ISC Program and the mental challenges of competing at the highest level. Dudley shares great insights into her preparation for this event and gives some great advice on upping your skills.

In this episode, I discuss how you can grow your dog's skills in the ring by strategically leveraging FEO. Think of these as "Fluency Evaluation Opportunities"! I'll discuss the 4 phases of learning and how the agility organizations have provided us with a vital tool in team development. I'll give you ideas on how to do FEO with a food motivated dog too! Online Class links below:

Arousal Management for Excited Dogs -

https://canine-culture.thinkific.com/courses/ring-impulse-control

Ring Stress

https://canine-culture.thinkific.com/courses/ring-stressed

My website:

https://www.canineculturecompany.com/

In this episode, Ashley Deacon and Kim Fuqua join me to discuss the trends with youth handlers and how to attract and support them in your community with grassroots efforts. Ashley will share his insights to the recent Youth Championships and Kim will share important considerations of being a Junior handler's parent. Both give ideas on growing junior handler programs in your area.

Links below:

Boundless Junior Agility Camps https://bjaco.com/

Stars of Tomorrow Junior Camp https://mwagilityclub.com/2025/06/04/october-11-12-2025-stars-of-tomorrow-junior-agility-camp/?fbclid=IwY2xjawLQE0xleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBicmlkETFDc21VYmh1bHUwUWxLUHBoAR7snJ0HxbDrhtXIdJ436p33HXAndizdtj6gUpEjat95h8bYjQTQlFtHnau5bg_aem_6xlJ7n4jV132CRjQhzkhjg