Laurel Behnke
Owner and Handler of World-Record-Breaking, Incredible Dog Challenge Champion.
Q: Why do you trust Pro Plan Sport to fuel your incredible dog?
A: Two reasons: One, the years of research that back it up. Two, I love how Sounders performs on it.
Q: Why do so many Diving, Sporting and Conformation trainers turn to Pro Plan Sport to fuel their champions?
A: They can see with their own eyes how well dogs of all sizes and types perform on it.
Q: Share a little bit of your history.
A: I’ve been grooming dogs since I was 18 years old. I got my first whippet in 1992. I’ve been rescuing whippets for the past 17 years. And I’ve been doing sports with my dogs since I was a kid.
Q: What’s the best part of working with canine athletes?
A: The best part is the love and devotion they show. They’re always giving you their best.
Q: What is the most exciting part of being an IDC competitor?
A: The crowd! Sounders loves the excitement. And so do I.
Q: What’s your number-one goal in your training?
A: To be the best handler for my dog that I can be. So, they can shine to their highest potential.
Q: What do you think it takes to get your dog to perform at the highest level?
A: Excellent Breeding — fast, keen whippets with good health and temperament.
Advanced Nutrition — Which is what I get from Pro Plan® Sport.
Consistent Exercise — Walks, free running, swimming, and fetch.
Q: A lot of time, training and hard work goes into competing. What makes it all worth it for you…and your dogs?
A: The pure joy I see in them when they’re doing what they love.
Q: What about him stood out the most?
A: He has the sweetest expression. He loves me. He’s so willing to please.
Q: When did you know he was special?
A: The moment he was born. He’s been impressing me every day since.
Q: What went through your mind when you saw Sounders had broken the world record?
A: Wow! Just so impressed with this boy. And how much I love him. He is truly incredible. I can’t wait to see what he’ll do next.
Q: How is Sounders a champion to you?
A: The way he’s so gentle with my 5-year-old granddaughter. The way he turns it on for a crowd. And the way he does his best in tense competitions.
Awards & Accomplishments
- NADD 2018 National Champion
- Dock Dogs 2019 Big Air World Champion
- Guinness World Record Holder for Dock Jumping
- 2019 IDC Diving Dog National Champion
- 2019 IDC Fetch It National Champion
This individual received coupons from Purina Pro Plan.
To help ensure her dogs are reaching their full potential, Laurel trusts Purina Pro Plan SPORT Performance 30/20 Formula. Take a look at our full line of Pro Plan dog food formulas to find the one that’s right for your dogs.