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
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.