Podcast

Sexier Than A Squirrel: Dog Training That Gets Real Life Results

Hobbies, Kids & Family, Leisure, Pets & Animals

In Sexier Than a Squirrel, the Official AbsoluteDogs Podcast, join us here at Absolute Dogs as we talk training your dog, transforming your dog training struggles and getting real-life results through GAMES!

Pets & Animals chart
#104
Episodes
359
Releases
Weekly
Typical length
19 min
On air since
2020
Latest episode
14 hours ago

Episodes

359 episodes, newest first

  1. Hands Off! Living With a Resource Guarding Dog

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    Welcome to this episode of the Sexier than a Squirrel podcast, the podcast that brings you real-life dog training results, and sometimes human training ones too!

    Does your dog growl when you approach their food? Guard their favourite chew, their bed or even something they've picked up that they really shouldn't have? Resource guarding can be incredibly challenging to live with, particularly when you're worried about how your dog might react if you need to take something away.

    This week, Lauren is joined by Amber to talk about the realities of living with a resource guarding dog, sharing the story of Amber's Hungarian Vizsla, Sergei, and the training and management strategies that have made such a difference to their everyday lives.

    When Amber first took Sergei on as a rescue, she had no idea just how challenging his behaviour would become. From guarding his crate and high-value chews to lunging and biting when he felt threatened, Sergei's resource guarding created some genuinely difficult situations. But with time, understanding and a lot of thoughtful management, life with Sergei looks very different today.

    Lauren and Amber explore why management is such an important part of living with resource guarding, and how preventing difficult situations can be far more effective than waiting for something to go wrong. You'll hear how Amber manages food, chews and shared spaces in her multi-dog household, why she focuses on moving Sergei away from an object rather than trying to take it from him, and how giving him time to fully disengage helps avoid unnecessary conflict.

    They also discuss the training that's helped Sergei develop better skills around letting go and moving away from things he finds valuable. From disengagement games and reward placement to building confidence with Kongs and other enrichment activities, you'll discover why it's so important to teach the skills your dog needs before you find yourself needing them in a difficult situation.

    And what about the rest of the household? Lauren and Amber talk honestly about managing resource guarding around family members, visitors and other dogs, including why sometimes changing your routines and setting clear boundaries is the best way to keep everyone safe and comfortable.

    There's also valuable advice for anyone considering rescuing or rehoming a dog, particularly around asking the right questions, understanding the dog's current challenges and recognising that some behaviours may only emerge once they've had time to settle into their new home.

    Resource guarding isn't always something that simply disappears, but that doesn't mean life can't get better. Sergei's story is a brilliant example of how understanding your dog, building the right skills and having a solid management plan can make everyday life safer and more enjoyable for everyone.

    Want to build your dog's disengagement skills and discover games that can help with resource guarding? Inside Games Club, you'll find practical training games and support to help you work on the skills your dog needs.

    Check out the £1 Games Club trial here:

    https://absolutedogs.me/7daytrial

    Support the show

    If you’re loving the podcast, you’ll love our NEW Sexier than a Squirrel Dog Training Challenge even more! Get transformational dog training today for only £27!

    Want even more epic dog training fun and games and solutions to all your dog training struggles? Join us in the AbsoluteDogs Games Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/gamesclub

    Want to take your learning to the next level? Jump into the games-based training membership for passionate dog owners and aspiring trainers that know they want more for themselves and their dog - Pro Dog Trainer Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/prodogtrainerclub

    And while you’re here, please leave a review for us and don’t forget to hit share and post your biggest lightbulb moment! Remember, no matter what struggles you might be facing with your dog, there is always a game for that!

    21 min
  2. Feeding for Calmness: Supporting Your Dog Through Spooky Season

    Show notes

    Send us Fan Mail

    Welcome to this episode of the Sexier than a Squirrel podcast, the podcast that brings you real-life dog training results, and sometimes human training ones too!

    Dark evenings, blustery weather, strange shadows and Halloween decorations popping up everywhere. Spooky season brings plenty of changes to our dogs' everyday environments, and even the most confident dogs can find themselves a little more worried or reactive than usual.

    This week, Lauren is joined by Michelle to explore how we can use food, feeding strategies and enrichment to support our dogs' calmness through spooky season.

    They start by looking at why autumn can be such a challenging time for dogs. With unfamiliar sights and sounds, changing routines and a whole host of little stresses adding up, it's easy for a dog's stress bucket to become fuller than we realise. And when that happens, even something that wouldn't normally bother them can suddenly trigger barking or an anxious response.

    So how can we help? Lauren and Michelle share some of their favourite ways to feed for calmness, including why how you deliver your dog's food can be just as important as what you feed.

    From batch-cooking pumpkin and squash for frozen lick mats to creating enrichment bowls with seasonal ingredients like sweet potato, apple and banana, you'll discover plenty of simple ideas that don't require hours of preparation. They also discuss supporting your dog's wellbeing through nutrition, gut health and supplements, including practical ways to incorporate these into meals for fussier eaters.

    But feeding for calmness goes well beyond what's in the bowl!

    You'll hear how recycling boxes, scatter feeding, stuffed chews and scent games can encourage sniffing, licking, chewing and problem-solving, giving your dog something positive to focus on when the world outside feels a little overwhelming.

    Lauren and Michelle also explore the importance of recognising stress stacking early, preventing the rehearsal of unwanted behaviours and making thoughtful choices about your dog's daily activities. Sometimes that means swapping a busy evening walk for a relaxed enrichment session at home, giving your dog the opportunity to rest, reset and enjoy something they love.

    Spooky season doesn't have to mean weeks of worry for your dog. With a little preparation, some creative feeding strategies and an understanding of what your dog needs, you can help them navigate the changing season with greater confidence and calmness.

    🐾 Want to give your dog more opportunities to practise calmness? Discover a whole library of games, enrichment ideas and confidence-building activities inside Games Club.

    Check out the £1 Games Club trial here:

    https://absolutedogs.me/7daytrial

    Support the show

    If you’re loving the podcast, you’ll love our NEW Sexier than a Squirrel Dog Training Challenge even more! Get transformational dog training today for only £27!

    Want even more epic dog training fun and games and solutions to all your dog training struggles? Join us in the AbsoluteDogs Games Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/gamesclub

    Want to take your learning to the next level? Jump into the games-based training membership for passionate dog owners and aspiring trainers that know they want more for themselves and their dog - Pro Dog Trainer Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/prodogtrainerclub

    And while you’re here, please leave a review for us and don’t forget to hit share and post your biggest lightbulb moment! Remember, no matter what struggles you might be facing with your dog, there is always a game for that!

    15 min
  3. Spooky Season Survival: Helping Your Dog Cope with Halloween

    Show notes

    Send us Fan Mail

    Welcome to this episode of the Sexier than a Squirrel podcast, the podcast that brings you real-life dog training results, and sometimes human training ones too!

    Trick-or-treaters knocking at the door. Strange noises outside. Pumpkins, skeletons and floating ghosts appearing on your usual walking route. Halloween can be a lot for our dogs to take in, especially if they're already sensitive to noises, novelty or unexpected visitors.

    This week, Lauren is joined by Karen to talk about preparing your dog for spooky season, with plenty of real-life examples from Karen's own Naughty But Nice cockapoo, Rupert.

    Rupert can go from calm to barking, bouncing and completely overwhelmed in seconds when someone comes to the door. So what do you do when your dog is already reacting and asking them to calm down simply isn't going to work?

    Lauren and Karen explore practical ways to manage those tricky situations, from using a simple food scatter to help redirect your dog's attention, to creating space and giving them somewhere safe to settle. They also share why prevention can be your best friend, particularly when Halloween means repeated knocks at the door.

    And it's not just the doorbell! With darker evenings, unfamiliar decorations and unexpected sights and sounds appearing everywhere, there are plenty of opportunities for our dogs to find the world a little more worrying than usual.

    You'll hear how simple games like Noise Box, DMT and Magic Cave can help build confidence around novelty and noise, how to introduce unusual objects at home without overwhelming your dog, and why sometimes the best thing you can do is adjust your plans and routines to suit the dog in front of you.

    There's also a little preparation advice for Bonfire Night, which is just around the corner, including ways to make your home more comfortable for dogs who struggle with fireworks.

    The good news? There's plenty you can do to help your dog feel more prepared for whatever spooky season brings!

    🎃 Want to keep trick-or-treaters from knocking on your door? Grab our free, dog-friendly Halloween door sign here:

    https://absolutedogs.me/halloweensign

    👻 Looking for games to help your dog grow in confidence? Our October Games Club challenge is packed with spooky-themed training games designed to build optimism, confidence and resilience.

    Check out the £1 Games Club trial here:

    https://absolutedogs.me/7daytrial

    Support the show

    If you’re loving the podcast, you’ll love our NEW Sexier than a Squirrel Dog Training Challenge even more! Get transformational dog training today for only £27!

    Want even more epic dog training fun and games and solutions to all your dog training struggles? Join us in the AbsoluteDogs Games Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/gamesclub

    Want to take your learning to the next level? Jump into the games-based training membership for passionate dog owners and aspiring trainers that know they want more for themselves and their dog - Pro Dog Trainer Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/prodogtrainerclub

    And while you’re here, please leave a review for us and don’t forget to hit share and post your biggest lightbulb moment! Remember, no matter what struggles you might be facing with your dog, there is always a game for that!

    15 min
  4. Reactive Dog? How to Get Your Confidence Back

    Show notes

    Send us Fan Mail

    Welcome to this episode of the Sexier than a Squirrel podcast, the podcast that brings you real-life dog training results, and sometimes human training ones too!

    Living with a reactive or Naughty But Nice dog can be challenging. And sometimes, the hardest part isn't the barking, lunging or difficult walks. It's how those experiences leave you feeling.

    Vulnerable. Isolated. Embarrassed. Judged.

    This week, we're bringing you something a little different: a conversation from our two-day Live and Unleashed event, where Michelle, Sam and Karen get together to talk about building confidence as the owner of a Naughty But Nice dog.

    They know first-hand how difficult it can be when the dog you love finds the world challenging, when other people don't understand, or when you're constantly worrying about what might be waiting around the next corner.

    But how do you start rebuilding your confidence when it's taken a knock?

    Together, they explore why reconnecting with the things you love about your dog is such an important starting point, and how you can begin to replace worry and uncertainty with preparation, practical skills and a plan.

    From taking a break from stressful walks and finding safer places to train, to scoring environments according to difficulty, rehearsing your responses and building a toolkit of games you can rely on, there are plenty of practical ideas you can put into action with your own dog.

    You'll also hear why it's important to give yourself an easy win on difficult days, how learning alongside experienced trainers and carefully selected dogs can grow your handling skills, and why having the right support can make such a difference.

    Because your confidence matters too. And the more prepared and capable you feel, the better equipped you'll be to help your dog navigate the world.

    If you'd love some personalised help with your own Naughty But Nice dog, there are ways we can support you:

    🐾 1-2-1 Coaching Calls – Get tailored advice, practical strategies and a plan for the challenges you're facing with your dog.

    https://absolute-dogs.com/products/pdt-connect

    🐾 Devon Dogs Training Holidays – Join us in Devon for hands-on training, expert coaching and the opportunity to build your skills and confidence in a supportive environment.

    https://www.devondogs.co.uk/

    And if you'd like to hear Ingrid's story, along with more inspiring experiences shared by our Naughty But Nice owners during Live and Unleashed, you'll find them on our AbsoluteDogs YouTube channel.

    Naughty But Nice stories

    Support the show

    If you’re loving the podcast, you’ll love our NEW Sexier than a Squirrel Dog Training Challenge even more! Get transformational dog training today for only £27!

    Want even more epic dog training fun and games and solutions to all your dog training struggles? Join us in the AbsoluteDogs Games Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/gamesclub

    Want to take your learning to the next level? Jump into the games-based training membership for passionate dog owners and aspiring trainers that know they want more for themselves and their dog - Pro Dog Trainer Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/prodogtrainerclub

    And while you’re here, please leave a review for us and don’t forget to hit share and post your biggest lightbulb moment! Remember, no matter what struggles you might be facing with your dog, there is always a game for that!

    28 min
  5. Ditch the Walk: Does Every Dog Need a Daily Walk?

    Show notes

    Send us Fan Mail

    Welcome to this episode of the Sexier than a Squirrel podcast, the podcast that brings you real-life dog training results, and sometimes human training ones too!

    Does being a good dog owner mean taking your dog for a walk every single day? What if that walk leaves your dog stressed, overwhelmed or rehearsing behaviours you really don’t want? And what if you could meet their needs brilliantly without heading out for a traditional walk at all?

    This week, Lauren is joined by Michelle to talk about Ditch the Walk – and why sometimes choosing not to walk your dog can be every bit as thoughtful as choosing to walk them.

    Together, they look at what we’re actually hoping to achieve when we take our dogs for a walk. Is it an opportunity to toilet? Physical exercise? Mental stimulation? Once we understand what we want the walk to provide, we can start thinking much more creatively about how we provide it. From scent work and training games at home to fitness, enrichment and secure dog fields, the traditional walk is just one option in a much bigger toolkit.

    They also explore why this can be such an important conversation for reactive, worried and Naughty But Nice dogs. We can prepare carefully, choose quieter places and train brilliantly, but we can’t control the off-lead dog that suddenly appears around the corner. Lauren and Michelle share experiences with their own dogs and explain why safeguarding confidence sometimes means being very selective about who, when, where and why you walk.

    And when you do choose to head out? Preparation matters. You’ll hear how secure spaces, long lines, recall training and having a strategy for difficult moments can help you build the skills your dog needs before asking them to cope with more challenging environments.

    This isn’t about never walking your dog. It’s about letting go of the idea that a daily walk is compulsory, looking at the dog in front of you and choosing experiences that genuinely work for both of you.

    Want more ideas for training, enrichment and building the skills your dog needs? You can join Games Club for just £1 and discover plenty of ways to give your dog a brilliant day – walk or no walk.

    Check out the £1 Games Club trial here:

    https://absolutedogs.me/7daytrial

    Support the show

    If you’re loving the podcast, you’ll love our NEW Sexier than a Squirrel Dog Training Challenge even more! Get transformational dog training today for only £27!

    Want even more epic dog training fun and games and solutions to all your dog training struggles? Join us in the AbsoluteDogs Games Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/gamesclub

    Want to take your learning to the next level? Jump into the games-based training membership for passionate dog owners and aspiring trainers that know they want more for themselves and their dog - Pro Dog Trainer Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/prodogtrainerclub

    And while you’re here, please leave a review for us and don’t forget to hit share and post your biggest lightbulb moment! Remember, no matter what struggles you might be facing with your dog, there is always a game for that!

    19 min
  6. Concept Training: Flexibility aka I Can Roll With It

    Show notes

    Send us Fan Mail

    Welcome to this episode of the Sexier than a Squirrel podcast, the podcast that brings you real-life dog training results, and sometimes human training ones too!

    This week, we’re continuing our series of episodes exploring what concept training actually is and how it shows up in real life with your dog. We’re taking the concepts you hear us talk about all the time, breaking them down, and making them practical, relatable, and easy to spot in your everyday training. This time, Lauren is joined by the brilliant Alice to explore flexibility – your dog’s ability to roll with whatever life throws their way.

    Does your dog know exactly when dinner should arrive? Start pestering the moment walk time approaches? Pull like a train along the familiar route to the park? Or struggle when something doesn’t happen quite the way they expected? Those everyday patterns can tell us a lot about flexibility – and what happens when expectations and reality don’t quite match.

    In this episode, Lauren and Alice explore how building mental flexibility can reduce frustration, lower arousal and help dogs cope more easily when plans change. Because life does change. Walks get cancelled, holidays happen, dogs stay with other people, routines shift and sometimes the thing your dog expected simply isn’t going to happen today. The more adaptable they can be, the easier those changes become.

    You’ll also hear loads of practical ways to grow flexibility through everyday life and training. From ditching the bowl and varying your walking routes to Noise Box, changing the outcome your dog expects and taking familiar behaviours into completely different situations, Lauren and Alice share simple ways to help your dog discover that different can be absolutely fine. They even explore how flexibility can help with calm comings and goings, separation and those Christmas-morning greetings every time you walk through the door.

    And there’s a lesson for the human end of the lead too. Sometimes helping our dogs become more flexible means looking at our own expectations, changing the picture we had in our heads and learning to work with the dog standing in front of us.

    Ready to help your dog become an “I can roll with it” kind of dog? Grab the £1 Games Club trial, explore the games that grow flexibility and discover just how much easier life can feel when change is no big deal.

    https://absolutedogs.me/7daytrial

    Support the show

    If you’re loving the podcast, you’ll love our NEW Sexier than a Squirrel Dog Training Challenge even more! Get transformational dog training today for only £27!

    Want even more epic dog training fun and games and solutions to all your dog training struggles? Join us in the AbsoluteDogs Games Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/gamesclub

    Want to take your learning to the next level? Jump into the games-based training membership for passionate dog owners and aspiring trainers that know they want more for themselves and their dog - Pro Dog Trainer Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/prodogtrainerclub

    And while you’re here, please leave a review for us and don’t forget to hit share and post your biggest lightbulb moment! Remember, no matter what struggles you might be facing with your dog, there is always a game for that!

    23 min
  7. Eat Well, Feel Better: Healthy Habits for Life

    Show notes

    Send us Fan Mail

    Welcome to this episode of the Sexier than a Squirrel podcast, the podcast that brings you real-life dog training results, and sometimes human training ones too!

    This week, Lauren is joined by Michelle for a slightly different conversation – all about food, healthy habits and some of the choices they’ve made to help themselves feel better day to day.

    Because when life is busy, eating well can very easily become another thing on the to-do list. You’re hungry, you’re short on time, and suddenly whatever is quickest and easiest wins.

    So Lauren and Michelle are getting practical about how they make the healthier option the convenient option too.

    From keeping boiled eggs and fresh fruit ready to grab, to frozen fruit, smoothies, cauliflower rice, quick soups and a LOT of enthusiastic guacamole chat, they share the foods and little bits of preparation that help them eat well without spending their lives in the kitchen.

    They also talk about flexibility. Eating well day to day doesn’t mean never having the pizza you really fancy when you’re out with friends. It’s about finding choices and habits that work for your life – and noticing how you feel along the way.

    And, of course, there’s a dog-training connection too. Lauren and Michelle both notice the difference when they feel well fuelled, energised and ready to take on the day – whether they’re training dogs, competing, travelling or simply keeping up with everything life throws at them.

    If this conversation leaves you feeling inspired to give your own food habits a little attention, Lauren and Michelle also share more about the upcoming Health Retreat, where you can join them in person or online for a week of food, learning, cooking and plenty of ideas to take home with you.

    Have a listen – and perhaps make your shopping list as you go. Lauren certainly did!

    Devon Dogs Health Retreat (November 2026)

    https://www.devondogs.co.uk/product/health-retreat-27th-november-2026/

    Devon Dogs Bake-Off: The Human End of the Lead (17th October 2026)

    https://www.devondogs.co.uk/product/devon-dogs-bake-off-17th-october-the-human-end-of-the-lead/

    Support the show

    If you’re loving the podcast, you’ll love our NEW Sexier than a Squirrel Dog Training Challenge even more! Get transformational dog training today for only £27!

    Want even more epic dog training fun and games and solutions to all your dog training struggles? Join us in the AbsoluteDogs Games Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/gamesclub

    Want to take your learning to the next level? Jump into the games-based training membership for passionate dog owners and aspiring trainers that know they want more for themselves and their dog - Pro Dog Trainer Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/prodogtrainerclub

    And while you’re here, please leave a review for us and don’t forget to hit share and post your biggest lightbulb moment! Remember, no matter what struggles you might be facing with your dog, there is always a game for that!

    23 min
  8. Learning, Growing & Giving Back ft. Justin Prust

    Show notes

    Send us Fan Mail

    Welcome to this episode of the Sexier than a Squirrel podcast, the podcast that brings you real-life dog training results, and sometimes human training ones too!

    This week, Lauren is joined once again by Justin Prust for a conversation about something that can make a huge difference to your confidence, your skills and even the opportunities that come your way: continuing to learn.

    And learning doesn’t have to mean signing up for another qualification or finding hours you simply don’t have. It could be 15 minutes with a book, 20 minutes training your own dog, listening to a podcast, watching someone else train or simply having a great conversation with someone who knows something you don’t.

    Lauren and Justin explore how those small opportunities to learn can build confidence and create momentum – and why learning becomes even more powerful when you share what you’ve discovered with somebody else. One person learns something, passes it on, inspires someone else to have a go… and suddenly learning becomes giving too.

    There’s also plenty of chat about the less tidy side of learning: trying something you’re terrible at, being willing to get things wrong and accepting that progress doesn’t always happen in a straight line. Whether it’s dog training, reading, surfing, whistling or mastering a completely ridiculous new skill, staying curious keeps us growing.

    Most importantly, learning should be fun. When we enjoy the process, we’re far more likely to remember it, keep doing it and share that enthusiasm with the people around us.

    So what could you learn today?

    Support the show

    If you’re loving the podcast, you’ll love our NEW Sexier than a Squirrel Dog Training Challenge even more! Get transformational dog training today for only £27!

    Want even more epic dog training fun and games and solutions to all your dog training struggles? Join us in the AbsoluteDogs Games Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/gamesclub

    Want to take your learning to the next level? Jump into the games-based training membership for passionate dog owners and aspiring trainers that know they want more for themselves and their dog - Pro Dog Trainer Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/prodogtrainerclub

    And while you’re here, please leave a review for us and don’t forget to hit share and post your biggest lightbulb moment! Remember, no matter what struggles you might be facing with your dog, there is always a game for that!

    17 min
  9. Dogs And Horses: The Skills That Keep Everyone Safe

    Show notes

    Send us Fan Mail

    Welcome to this episode of the Sexier than a Squirrel podcast, the podcast that brings you real-life dog training results, and sometimes human training ones too!

    What happens when dogs and horses meet out on a walk – and how do we make sure everyone stays safe? This week, Lauren is joined by Michele, who brings decades of experience with horses alongside her work with Naughty But Nice dogs, to talk about the responsibility we have when dogs, horses and livestock share the same spaces.

    A horse with a rider can be a very strange picture for a dog. It’s big, it moves differently, it can appear suddenly around a corner – and for dogs who already struggle with novelty, movement, chasing or high arousal, that can be a LOT to process.

    From the rider’s side, a loose dog approaching or chasing a horse can be genuinely dangerous. Horses are powerful flight animals, things can go wrong incredibly quickly, and “my dog is friendly” doesn’t mean very much when that dog can’t be called back.

    Lauren and Michele talk about what having your dog under control really means, why a brilliant recall matters, and the practical choices you can make when you spot a horse ahead. They also explore how communicating with the rider, understanding your individual dog and preparing for these situations before they happen can make everyone’s experience safer.

    And that preparation is a huge part of this episode. From mentally rehearsing what you’ll do when a distraction appears to practising recall when there isn’t a horse in sight, Lauren and Michele share how training ahead can help both you and your dog respond differently when it really matters.

    You’ll also hear why Scatter Recall is such a powerful game, alongside long lines, whistle recalls, emergency recalls and the everyday skills that can give you far more confidence around horses, livestock, cyclists, dogs and other distractions.

    If recall is something you’d love to strengthen with your dog, Games Club is packed with games to help you build those skills – and right now, you can come and try it for just £1.

    Let’s build dogs who are ready for the situations they might meet – and walks that are safer and more enjoyable for everyone.

    Check out the £1 Games Club trial here:

    https://absolutedogs.me/7daytrial

    Support the show

    If you’re loving the podcast, you’ll love our NEW Sexier than a Squirrel Dog Training Challenge even more! Get transformational dog training today for only £27!

    Want even more epic dog training fun and games and solutions to all your dog training struggles? Join us in the AbsoluteDogs Games Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/gamesclub

    Want to take your learning to the next level? Jump into the games-based training membership for passionate dog owners and aspiring trainers that know they want more for themselves and their dog - Pro Dog Trainer Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/prodogtrainerclub

    And while you’re here, please leave a review for us and don’t forget to hit share and post your biggest lightbulb moment! Remember, no matter what struggles you might be facing with your dog, there is always a game for that!

    26 min
  10. Why Dogs Keep Pulling: And How to Transform Your Walks

    Show notes

    Send us Fan Mail

    Welcome to this episode of the Sexier than a Squirrel podcast, the podcast that brings you real-life dog training results, and sometimes human training ones too!

    This week, Lauren and Alice are tackling one of the most common – and frustrating – struggles in dog ownership: lead pulling. If you've ever found yourself wondering why your dog still pulls despite everything you've tried, this episode might just change the way you think about your walks.

    Together, they explore why pulling works so well for our dogs – and how every successful repetition can make the behaviour stronger. Whether pulling gets your dog to the park faster, closer to an irresistible smell or simply towards whatever exciting thing comes next, they're learning all the time. Add in the opposition reflex that encourages dogs to push against pressure, and it's easy to see how walks can quickly turn into a tug of war.

    Lauren and Alice also unpack the role that arousal and emotion play in pulling, and why changing the behaviour means looking beyond what's happening at the end of the lead. You'll hear stories from their own dogs, including Skittle and Bonnie, and discover why spotting the early signs – from a head dropping into hunting mode to an intense visual stare – gives you the opportunity to change what happens next.

    Most importantly, they explore how to interrupt the rehearsal loop and start building something different. From disengagement and re-engagement to check-ins, reinforcement and simple games you can practise before you ever tackle a challenging walk, you'll discover how small, intentional repetitions can build the skills you actually want your dog to rehearse.

    This isn't about finding a quick trick to stop your dog pulling. It's about understanding the dog in front of you, changing what the walk predicts, and building the confidence, connection and skills that make walking together feel completely different.

    Ready to transform your walks? The Stress Free Walks Blueprint is here.

    We'll guide you step by step through the games, strategies and foundations that help you move from pulling, frustration and stressful walks towards calmer, more connected adventures together.

    Discover the Stress Free Walks Blueprint:
    http://absolutedogs.me/blueprint

    Support the show

    If you’re loving the podcast, you’ll love our NEW Sexier than a Squirrel Dog Training Challenge even more! Get transformational dog training today for only £27!

    Want even more epic dog training fun and games and solutions to all your dog training struggles? Join us in the AbsoluteDogs Games Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/gamesclub

    Want to take your learning to the next level? Jump into the games-based training membership for passionate dog owners and aspiring trainers that know they want more for themselves and their dog - Pro Dog Trainer Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/prodogtrainerclub

    And while you’re here, please leave a review for us and don’t forget to hit share and post your biggest lightbulb moment! Remember, no matter what struggles you might be facing with your dog, there is always a game for that!

    21 min
  11. From Living Room to Real Life: How to Build Skills That Stick

    Show notes

    Send us Fan Mail

    Welcome to this episode of the Sexier than a Squirrel podcast, the podcast that brings you real-life dog training results, and sometimes human training ones too!

    This week, Lauren and Alice tackle one of the biggest frustrations in dog training: why does your dog seem to listen perfectly at home, then forget everything the moment you step outside? If you've ever wondered why a brilliant behaviour in your living room completely disappears on a walk - and how to bridge that gap - this episode is for you.

    Together, they explore why dogs don't automatically transfer skills from one environment to another, and why expecting them to do so can leave both ends of the lead feeling frustrated. You'll discover why training for the situation is so much more effective than trying to train in the situation, and how building the right foundations before heading into busy environments can completely change the outcome.

    Lauren and Alice also share the practical progression they use to help dogs succeed in the real world. From your living room and garden to quiet public spaces, secure fields, industrial estates and even car parks, they explain how carefully choosing your training environments gives your dog the chance to practise the right behaviours before distractions become overwhelming. You'll hear why these often-overlooked locations can be some of the very best places to build loose lead walking, engagement and confidence.

    Along the way, they discuss why taking a short break from traditional walks can sometimes be the kindest thing you can do, how to prevent unwanted rehearsal before it becomes a habit, and why setting your dog up to succeed is one of the fastest ways to build skills that genuinely stick. Whether you're raising a puppy, living with a reactive dog or simply dreaming of calmer, more connected walks, this episode is packed with practical ideas you can start using straight away.

    Ready to take those brilliant skills from your living room out into the real world? Inside our Stress Free Walks Blueprint we'll show you exactly how to bridge that gap, build confidence in real-life environments, and set your dog up for success on walks.

    https://absolutedogs.me/blueprint

    Support the show

    If you’re loving the podcast, you’ll love our NEW Sexier than a Squirrel Dog Training Challenge even more! Get transformational dog training today for only £27!

    Want even more epic dog training fun and games and solutions to all your dog training struggles? Join us in the AbsoluteDogs Games Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/gamesclub

    Want to take your learning to the next level? Jump into the games-based training membership for passionate dog owners and aspiring trainers that know they want more for themselves and their dog - Pro Dog Trainer Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/prodogtrainerclub

    And while you’re here, please leave a review for us and don’t forget to hit share and post your biggest lightbulb moment! Remember, no matter what struggles you might be facing with your dog, there is always a game for that!

    13 min
  12. Why Is Everything More Exciting Than Me? Understanding What Makes the World So Irresistible

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    Welcome to this episode of the Sexier than a Squirrel podcast, the podcast that brings you real-life dog training results, and sometimes human training ones too!

    This week, Lauren and Karen tackle one of the biggest frustrations dog owners face: why does the whole world seem more exciting than you? If you've ever felt like your dog would rather sniff a hedge, chase a squirrel or investigate a discarded sandwich wrapper than pay you any attention, you're definitely not alone.

    Together, they explore why the environment is so incredibly rewarding for our dogs. From irresistible smells and moving wildlife to the unpredictability of everyday life, you'll discover why dogs naturally find the world so hard to resist - and why it isn't because they're stubborn, disobedient or "don't care" about you. Lauren explains why trying to compete with a squirrel using a biscuit is rarely a winning strategy, and how building value in your relationship changes everything.

    Lauren and Karen also dive into the practical ways you can start becoming part of the adventure instead of competing with it. You'll hear why changing direction at the right moment, varying your rewards, using play and sniffing intentionally, and creating opportunities for connection can all make a huge difference when you're out and about. They also discuss why the walk starts long before you ever clip the lead on, how rehearsal shapes future behaviour, and why preventing unwanted habits is often far easier than trying to undo them later.

    The conversation also takes a thoughtful look at puppies and reactive dogs, exploring why building emotional skills before diving into busy environments can have a lasting impact. Karen shares Rupert's story and reflects on how one difficult experience changed not only her dog, but also the way she felt on every walk afterwards. Together, they discuss why feeling safe matters just as much for the person holding the lead as it does for the dog, and how thoughtful preparation can help both ends of the lead enjoy walking together again.

    Whether your dog is distracted by squirrels, other dogs, discarded food or simply the excitement of being outdoors, this episode will help you understand what's really going on - and why changing the way you think about walks can be the first step towards changing the walks themselves.

    Ready to discover the foundations of calmer, happier, more connected walks? We'd love you to check out our Stress Free Walks Blueprint, where we'll show you the games, strategies and mindset that make that possible.

    https://absolutedogs.me/blueprint

    Support the show

    If you’re loving the podcast, you’ll love our NEW Sexier than a Squirrel Dog Training Challenge even more! Get transformational dog training today for only £27!

    Want even more epic dog training fun and games and solutions to all your dog training struggles? Join us in the AbsoluteDogs Games Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/gamesclub

    Want to take your learning to the next level? Jump into the games-based training membership for passionate dog owners and aspiring trainers that know they want more for themselves and their dog - Pro Dog Trainer Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/prodogtrainerclub

    And while you’re here, please leave a review for us and don’t forget to hit share and post your biggest lightbulb moment! Remember, no matter what struggles you might be facing with your dog, there is always a game for that!

    17 min
  13. The Walks I Nearly Gave Up On: Lessons From Life With Skittle

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    Welcome to this episode of the Sexier than a Squirrel podcast, the podcast that brings you real-life dog training results, and sometimes human training ones too!

    This week, Karen turns interviewer as Lauren shares the story behind one of the toughest dogs she's ever lived with: Skittle. If you've ever wondered how a dog trainer could end up dreading walks, this episode is for you.

    Skittle is brilliantly clever, endlessly enthusiastic, and always five steps ahead. She could spot opportunities before Lauren even knew they existed, whether that was disappearing into a bog, rolling in fox poo, hunting wildlife or pulling so hard she left Lauren in pain. Together, Lauren and Karen unpack how those behaviours developed, why even experienced trainers can get caught out by rehearsal, and how life, grief and loving a dog "just a little bit too much" can sometimes blur the boundaries that dogs really need.

    Most importantly, Lauren shares how everything changed. Listen in as she talks through the two principles that transformed Skittle's walks: stopping rehearsal of the behaviours you don't want, and investing consistently in the behaviours you do. You'll hear why taking a break from normal walks can sometimes be the kindest decision, how relationship was the missing piece of the puzzle, and why building real-life skills mattered far more than chasing flashy training goals.

    Karen and Lauren also dive into the practical games that made the difference, including Skittle's Game, designed to flip the value from charging forwards to choosing connection instead. Along the way they explore the importance of starting walks well, preventing pulling before it begins, creating consistency between handlers, and using reinforcement strategically so food becomes a safety tool rather than a lifelong dependency. Whether your dog pulls, reacts, hunts or simply makes walks feel exhausting, the underlying principles remain the same.

    Ready to build walks you actually enjoy again? The Stress Free Walks Blueprint is now available. Inside, we guide you through the same games and strategies that transformed life with Skittle.

    https://absolutedogs.me/blueprint

    Support the show

    If you’re loving the podcast, you’ll love our NEW Sexier than a Squirrel Dog Training Challenge even more! Get transformational dog training today for only £27!

    Want even more epic dog training fun and games and solutions to all your dog training struggles? Join us in the AbsoluteDogs Games Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/gamesclub

    Want to take your learning to the next level? Jump into the games-based training membership for passionate dog owners and aspiring trainers that know they want more for themselves and their dog - Pro Dog Trainer Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/prodogtrainerclub

    And while you’re here, please leave a review for us and don’t forget to hit share and post your biggest lightbulb moment! Remember, no matter what struggles you might be facing with your dog, there is always a game for that!

    42 min
  14. Living with a Toy Dog: Bobble and the Treehouse

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    Welcome to this episode of the Sexier than a Squirrel podcast, the podcast that brings you real-life dog training results, and sometimes human training ones too!

    This week, Lauren is joined by the brilliant Linda Hughes to introduce one very small dog with a very big personality. Meet Bobble – a two-kilo silver toy poodle who lives with four Border Collies, has absolutely no concept of being tiny, and somehow ended up with his own treehouse on Linda's desk.

    Living with a toy dog comes with its own unique set of considerations, and in this episode we explore what really changes when your newest family member is small enough to disappear beneath a Border Collie. From carefully managing play with bigger dogs and adding sofa steps to protect tiny joints, to resisting the temptation to accidentally create a dog who expects breakfast to arrive on a spoon, Lauren and Linda share the funny moments and practical lessons that have come with life alongside Bobble.

    The conversation also turns to training and day-to-day life. You'll hear why small dogs still need great recall, how easy it is to overlook the "easy" dog while managing everyone else, and why that could quickly lead to a tiny dog who thinks the rules don't apply. Linda also shares how she approaches grooming, clipping and coat care, including building positive associations with a dedicated grooming station so handling becomes just another part of life rather than something to dread.

    We also chat about toy breed fitness, supporting dogs with patella concerns, choosing toys that suit tiny mouths, and teaching a simple cue that helps manage breed-typical barking. And of course, no episode about Bobble would be complete without the story of how a firm "no dogs on the bed" rule quietly disappeared the moment one impossibly cute toy poodle curled up between the pillows.

    Whether you already share your home with a toy dog, you're thinking about welcoming one into your family, or you simply love hearing about the realities of life with dogs of every shape and size, this episode is guaranteed to leave you smiling. Subscribe, share it with a fellow dog lover, and don't forget to leave us a review.

    Support the show

    If you’re loving the podcast, you’ll love our NEW Sexier than a Squirrel Dog Training Challenge even more! Get transformational dog training today for only £27!

    Want even more epic dog training fun and games and solutions to all your dog training struggles? Join us in the AbsoluteDogs Games Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/gamesclub

    Want to take your learning to the next level? Jump into the games-based training membership for passionate dog owners and aspiring trainers that know they want more for themselves and their dog - Pro Dog Trainer Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/prodogtrainerclub

    And while you’re here, please leave a review for us and don’t forget to hit share and post your biggest lightbulb moment! Remember, no matter what struggles you might be facing with your dog, there is always a game for that!

    13 min
  15. Mastering the Muzzle: Every Superhero Needs a Cape

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    Welcome to this episode of the Sexier than a Squirrel podcast, the podcast that brings you real-life dog training results, and sometimes human training ones too!

    This week, Lauren is joined by Alice to explore one of the most misunderstood pieces of dog training equipment there is: the muzzle. Whether you've never considered muzzle training before or you already have a dog who wears one, this episode is all about changing the conversation and showing how a muzzle can create more freedom, not less.

    Far too often, muzzles only come out when there's a crisis - an emergency vet visit, a bite risk, a scavenging habit, or new legal requirements. Lauren and Alice explain why waiting until you need a muzzle is one of the biggest mistakes owners can make. Instead, they explore how games-based training can build confidence long before the muzzle is ever needed, transforming it from something a dog tolerates into something they happily choose to wear. You'll also hear why muzzles aren't just for reactive dogs, but can be invaluable for cooperative care, grooming, travel, introductions, and preventing dangerous scavenging.

    The conversation also tackles some of the practical realities many owners face. Lauren and Alice discuss choosing a well-fitting basket muzzle that allows panting, drinking and taking treats, introducing new equipment through tiny, achievable steps, and making thoughtful adjustments to improve comfort. They also talk openly about breed-specific legislation, public perception, and why advocating for your dog with confidence is far more powerful than worrying about what other people might think.

    Whether your dog wears a muzzle today or you simply want to be prepared for whatever life brings, this episode will help you see muzzle training in a completely different light. It's a practical life skill that can improve safety, protect welfare, and open up opportunities for dogs to enjoy more of the world with confidence.

    Ready to get started? Explore our Mastering the Muzzle course

    http://absolutedogs.me/masteringthemuzzle

    And if you'd like to discover more games-based training, grab the Games Club £1 trial

    http://absolutedogs.me/7daytrial

    Support the show

    If you’re loving the podcast, you’ll love our NEW Sexier than a Squirrel Dog Training Challenge even more! Get transformational dog training today for only £27!

    Want even more epic dog training fun and games and solutions to all your dog training struggles? Join us in the AbsoluteDogs Games Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/gamesclub

    Want to take your learning to the next level? Jump into the games-based training membership for passionate dog owners and aspiring trainers that know they want more for themselves and their dog - Pro Dog Trainer Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/prodogtrainerclub

    And while you’re here, please leave a review for us and don’t forget to hit share and post your biggest lightbulb moment! Remember, no matter what struggles you might be facing with your dog, there is always a game for that!

    17 min
  16. Making & Baking: Simple Recipes for Happy, Healthy Dogs

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    Welcome to this episode of the Sexier than a Squirrel podcast, the podcast that brings you real-life dog training results, and sometimes human training ones too!

    This week, Lauren is joined by Michelle to chat about one of the simplest ways we can support our dogs every single day: what goes into their bowl. From homemade treats and nourishing meal toppers to bone broth, kefir and colourful fresh ingredients, this episode is packed with practical ideas that are easy to introduce, whatever you're currently feeding.

    Rather than chasing perfection, Lauren and Michelle explore the small changes that can make a big difference over time. They share some of their favourite everyday additions, including dog-friendly omelettes, herbs, vegetables and medicinal mushroom supplements, explaining how variety can help support overall health without making feeding complicated. You'll also hear how they approach hydration and gut health, from slow-cooked bone broth and simple shaker recipes to probiotics, kefir and why keeping an eye on your dog's poo can tell you far more than you might think.

    If you enjoy making things yourself, there's plenty of inspiration here too. Lauren and Michelle share easy homemade training treats, including a baked turkey recipe that's perfect for chopping into reward-sized pieces, plus frozen silicone mould treats made with simple, nutritious ingredients. Along the way, they bust a few common myths, chat about ingredients that often cause confusion, and explain why feeding your dog well doesn't have to mean spending hours in the kitchen.

    Whether you're looking to make training rewards a little healthier, add more variety to your dog's meals, or simply pick up a few new ideas to try this week, this episode is full of practical tips.

    Want even more inspiration? Join the Devon Dogs monthly Bake Off, where we share recipes, ideas and homemade creations:

    https://www.devondogs.co.uk/dog-training-events/

    You can also download our free recipe book packed with simple, dog-friendly favourites:

    https://www.devondogs.co.uk/the-amazing-recipe-book/

    Support the show

    If you’re loving the podcast, you’ll love our NEW Sexier than a Squirrel Dog Training Challenge even more! Get transformational dog training today for only £27!

    Want even more epic dog training fun and games and solutions to all your dog training struggles? Join us in the AbsoluteDogs Games Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/gamesclub

    Want to take your learning to the next level? Jump into the games-based training membership for passionate dog owners and aspiring trainers that know they want more for themselves and their dog - Pro Dog Trainer Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/prodogtrainerclub

    And while you’re here, please leave a review for us and don’t forget to hit share and post your biggest lightbulb moment! Remember, no matter what struggles you might be facing with your dog, there is always a game for that!

    21 min
  17. Concept Training Explained: Proximity aka I'll Stick With You

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    Welcome to this episode of the Sexier than a Squirrel podcast, the podcast that brings you real-life dog training results, and sometimes human training ones too!

    This week, we’re continuing our series of episodes exploring what concept training actually is and how it shows up in real life with your dog. We’re taking the concepts you hear us talk about all the time, breaking them down, and making them practical, relatable, and easy to spot in your everyday training. This time, Lauren is joined by the brilliant Alice to explore one of the most important foundations for calm, connected walks: proximity.

    Ever feel like the moment your dog spots something interesting, you stop existing? Whether it's another dog, a squirrel, a jogger or an exciting scent, so many everyday struggles - from pulling on the lead to unreliable recall - come back to one simple question: where does your dog believe the value is? In this episode, Lauren and Alice explore why proximity isn't about keeping your dog glued to your side, but about building a dog who genuinely wants to stay connected because that's where the good stuff happens.

    Along the way, they share real-life stories that highlight just how much emotion can sit behind proximity. From a dog unexpectedly disappearing after deer to a young Border Collie finding human closeness overwhelming because it predicted restraint, you'll discover why some dogs naturally avoid being close, how we can accidentally poison proximity by making it signal "the fun's over", and how to change that picture.

    You'll also hear plenty of practical games you can start using straight away. From Middle, Middle Toes and Leg Weaves to Magic Hand, Two Feet On and simple collar-grab exercises, Lauren and Alice explain how these games build value for being near you, make handling feel positive, and create a dog who happily checks in both on and off lead. They also explore why proximity becomes such a powerful safety skill for reactive dogs, nervous dogs, and any dog learning to navigate busy environments with confidence.

    Ready to build a dog who chooses to stick with you? Grab the £1 Games Club trial, explore Proximity games and guided training tracks, and discover how a few simple games can transform your walks.

    https://absolutedogs.me/7daytrial

    Support the show

    If you’re loving the podcast, you’ll love our NEW Sexier than a Squirrel Dog Training Challenge even more! Get transformational dog training today for only £27!

    Want even more epic dog training fun and games and solutions to all your dog training struggles? Join us in the AbsoluteDogs Games Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/gamesclub

    Want to take your learning to the next level? Jump into the games-based training membership for passionate dog owners and aspiring trainers that know they want more for themselves and their dog - Pro Dog Trainer Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/prodogtrainerclub

    And while you’re here, please leave a review for us and don’t forget to hit share and post your biggest lightbulb moment! Remember, no matter what struggles you might be facing with your dog, there is always a game for that!

    19 min
  18. Starting Out in Dog Training: What Would You Tell Someone New? ft. Linda Hughes

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    Welcome to this episode of the Sexier than a Squirrel podcast, the podcast that brings you real-life dog training results, and sometimes human training ones too!

    This week, Lauren is joined by the brilliant Linda Hughes to tackle a question that sparks some fascinating discussion: what would you tell someone who's completely new to dog training?

    Whether you're dreaming of becoming a professional trainer, you've just welcomed a puppy into your life, or you're simply trying to become the best trainer you can be for your own dog, this episode is packed with honest, practical advice from two people who have spent years learning from dogs, owners, mistakes, successes, and everything in between.

    Lauren and Linda chat about why experience matters so much, and why spending time with lots of different dogs often teaches you more than any qualification ever could. They discuss the value of rescue and rehoming environments, the importance of handling dogs with different personalities, motivations and challenges, and why some of the biggest lessons come from the dogs who don't make training easy.

    The conversation also dives into one of the most important skills a trainer can develop: knowing your limits. From aggression cases and bite risks to difficult home environments and client expectations, Lauren and Linda share why referring a case on isn't a sign of failure - it's a sign of professionalism. You'll hear why good trainers stay curious, keep learning, and aren't afraid to ask for help when they need it.

    They also explore the human side of dog training. From avoiding industry cliques and maintaining healthy boundaries, to balancing online learning with hands-on experience, this episode is full of insights for anyone looking to build a long, sustainable future in the dog world.

    And for new dog owners, there's plenty here too. Lauren and Linda discuss why the work starts before your puppy comes home, how to choose the right breeder, what questions to ask, and why preparation often prevents problems before they ever begin.

    If you've ever wondered where to start, what really matters, or how to keep growing as a trainer, this episode is full of thoughtful advice, practical wisdom, and plenty of encouragement to stay curious and keep learning.

    Curious about expanding your dog training skills? Check out PDT Club: http://absolutedogs.me/pdtclub

    Want to get hands-on with lots of dogs and broaden your experience? We'd love to welcome you to train with us at Bowerland, the home of absoluteDogs and Devon Dogs: https://www.devondogs.co.uk/train-your-dog/

    Support the show

    If you’re loving the podcast, you’ll love our NEW Sexier than a Squirrel Dog Training Challenge even more! Get transformational dog training today for only £27!

    Want even more epic dog training fun and games and solutions to all your dog training struggles? Join us in the AbsoluteDogs Games Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/gamesclub

    Want to take your learning to the next level? Jump into the games-based training membership for passionate dog owners and aspiring trainers that know they want more for themselves and their dog - Pro Dog Trainer Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/prodogtrainerclub

    And while you’re here, please leave a review for us and don’t forget to hit share and post your biggest lightbulb moment! Remember, no matter what struggles you might be facing with your dog, there is always a game for that!

    17 min
  19. Confidence, Connection and Community ft. Justin Prust

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    Welcome to this episode of the Sexier than a Squirrel podcast, the podcast that brings you real-life dog training results, and sometimes human training ones too!

    This week, Lauren is joined by the brilliant Justin Prust for a conversation about something that affects every area of life and dog training: confidence.

    We talk about confidence all the time when it comes to our dogs, helping them feel safe, optimistic, and ready to take on the world. But what happens when our own confidence takes a hit? How do we keep showing up for our dogs, our families, and ourselves when life throws us a curveball?

    In this honest and personal episode, Lauren and Justin share experiences of navigating major life challenges, including divorce, grief, prolonged stress, and those moments that leave even the most confident people questioning themselves. Together, they explore the difference between confidence built on external validation and confidence that comes from a deeper sense of self-trust, purpose, and resilience.

    You'll hear practical ideas for strengthening confidence in everyday life, from tracking small daily wins and practising gratitude, to celebrating progress, creating momentum, and recognising just how much you've achieved when it feels like you're standing still. Lauren and Justin also discuss the role of movement, exercise, nutrition, self-care, and community, and why confidence often grows through consistent actions rather than dramatic breakthroughs.

    Along the way, they explore some of the surprisingly simple tools that can help shift your state when you're struggling, including music, humour, connection, pattern interrupts, and even the power of a favourite outfit, scent, or ritual to help you step into your best self.

    Whether you're working through a difficult season, rebuilding after a setback, or simply looking for ways to feel more capable and grounded, this episode is packed with practical ideas and honest reflections that will leave you feeling encouraged and empowered.

    Ready to build your confidence muscle? Press play, share this episode with a friend who could use a boost, and leave us a review to help more people discover the podcast.

    And if you'd like to build confidence with your dog too, check out the £1 Games Club trial and start playing your way to a more optimistic future together.

    https://absolutedogs.me/7daytrial

    Support the show

    If you’re loving the podcast, you’ll love our NEW Sexier than a Squirrel Dog Training Challenge even more! Get transformational dog training today for only £27!

    Want even more epic dog training fun and games and solutions to all your dog training struggles? Join us in the AbsoluteDogs Games Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/gamesclub

    Want to take your learning to the next level? Jump into the games-based training membership for passionate dog owners and aspiring trainers that know they want more for themselves and their dog - Pro Dog Trainer Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/prodogtrainerclub

    And while you’re here, please leave a review for us and don’t forget to hit share and post your biggest lightbulb moment! Remember, no matter what struggles you might be facing with your dog, there is always a game for that!

    19 min
  20. Confessions of a Dog Trainer: The Mistakes We've Made and What They Taught Us

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    Welcome to this episode of the Sexier than a Squirrel podcast, the podcast that brings you real-life dog training results, and sometimes human training ones too!

    This week, Lauren is joined by Linda for a candid conversation about the mistakes that have shaped them as dog trainers and dog owners. Not the polished success stories, but the moments they would do differently, the lessons they learned the hard way, and the experiences that changed how they see dogs forever.

    From creating a Border Collie with endless intensity and no off switch, to teaching a reactive dog to scan the environment for trouble, they explore how easy it is to accidentally reinforce the very behaviours you're trying to avoid. Along the way, they discuss the hidden cost of drive, arousal and obsession, and why some of the things that look impressive in training can become problematic in everyday life.

    The conversation also turns to physical wellbeing and the lessons that come with experience. Lauren and Linda share stories of sport dogs who pushed through discomfort, injuries that taught them to look more carefully, and how their views on repetitive ball throwing, impact and canine fitness have evolved over time. You'll hear why high-drive dogs can be particularly difficult to read, and why enthusiasm doesn't always mean a dog's body is coping well.

    Alongside the serious lessons are plenty of lighter moments too. Runaway dogs, stolen sandwiches, Christmas turkey theft, unexpected chinchillas and the kinds of stories that are funny now, but perhaps weren't quite so funny at the time. Because if you've lived with dogs for long enough, you'll know that some of your greatest learning comes wrapped in chaos.

    Most importantly, this episode is a reminder that nobody ever knows it all. No matter how many dogs you've owned, how many qualifications you hold, or how much experience you've built, dogs have a remarkable way of keeping you humble. The best trainers aren't the ones who never make mistakes - they're the ones who keep learning from them.

    Ready to listen in? Press play, and let us know: what's the biggest lesson a dog has ever taught you?

    Support the show

    If you’re loving the podcast, you’ll love our NEW Sexier than a Squirrel Dog Training Challenge even more! Get transformational dog training today for only £27!

    Want even more epic dog training fun and games and solutions to all your dog training struggles? Join us in the AbsoluteDogs Games Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/gamesclub

    Want to take your learning to the next level? Jump into the games-based training membership for passionate dog owners and aspiring trainers that know they want more for themselves and their dog - Pro Dog Trainer Club!
    https://absolutedogs.me/prodogtrainerclub

    And while you’re here, please leave a review for us and don’t forget to hit share and post your biggest lightbulb moment! Remember, no matter what struggles you might be facing with your dog, there is always a game for that!

    20 min