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

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Putting the FUN Back into Obedience Training Nov 19, 2024

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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!
In this episode, Lauren is joined once again by wonderful Competitive Obedience Pro Linda Hughes, who is on a mission to make Obedience training fun - for dogs and their humans!
Obedience sometimes has a reputation for being a bit boring, but Linda is here to show it’s anything but dull. From avoiding the pressure of constant accuracy and repetition to celebrating the unique personality of every dog, Linda explains how training Obedience with games can unlock your dog’s spirit, not bog it down.
For Linda, the heart of Obedience training lies in building a strong, meaningful relationship with her dogs. It’s not just about perfecting the moves or nailing the tests - it’s about truly understanding the dog in front of her and creating a dog who wants to work with her - and finds joy in the game.
With amusing anecdotes about her own dogs, like Sendze, her “headbanger,” and Ulla, her sensitive soul, Linda shares how every dog she’s owned and worked with has taught her something new, and emphasises the importance of tailoring training to fit each dog’s unique personality.
Discover Linda’s top tips for anyone looking to start Obedience training, including how to break down Heelwork, use special toys to build value in play, and bring games into your sessions to make learning fun and engaging. And when things go wrong? Laugh it off and keep going!
Whether you’re curious about Competitive Obedience or simply want to strengthen your relationship with your dog, this episode is packed with fun and inspiration!
Keen to learn more? Check out Funbedience now!

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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!

The Wonderful World of Frisbee: Tips from a Disc Dog Pro Nov 12, 2024

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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!
In this episode, Lauren is joined by super Pro Dog Trainer and Disc Dog expert Ben to talk about the wonderful world of frisbee. Ben is something of a pro at this impressive sport, and the conversation combines his passion for Disc Dog training with his love of Cattle Dogs and his experience working with rescue dogs.
Ben’s passion for this energetic sport is infectious - and by the end of the episode you may just find yourself wanting to give it a go with your own dog!
Listen as he explains how Disc Dog is a sport that goes beyond simply tossing a frisbee to being a fun, rewarding relationship-building game anyone can enjoy. Together, Lauren and Ben dive into everything you need to know to get started in frisbee training, from considering how to play safely and avoid injury to pro tips for refining your throw - even if your aim is a little hit or miss!
When it comes to Cattle Dogs, Ben definitely has a soft spot for this sometimes misunderstood breed. His amusing anecdotes paint a vivid picture as he shares stories of how these highly focused dogs sometimes use their natural herding instincts in surprising ways, occasionally focusing on other things that move, including their owner’s rear end! For anyone with a Cattle Dog, Ben’s tips on harnessing this natural drive are invaluable.
Ben’s journey into Disc Dog training started with a rescue dog, and he shares the joy and challenges involved in training rescues for this sport. His first rescue, the dog that started it all, taught him the value of patience, trust, and how frisbee became a powerful way to build their relationship. Since then, Ben has welcomed more rescue dogs into his life, discovering just how much these dogs thrive with the structure and engagement that Disc Dog training provides. He also shares tips on creating a supportive training space that helps rescue dogs feel secure and excited to learn.
Finally, Ben and Lauren dive into the games-based approach to training and how it overlaps beautifully with Disc Dog training. Ben explains that games can be a powerful way to build foundational skills, from focus to recall, all while keeping training fun and engaging. Training this way helps dogs stay in tune with their handler and makes learning a seamless part of playtime. Whether it’s through a simple game or an advanced trick, Ben’s approach to Disc Dog training ensures that every training session can be a fun, skill-building experience.
Tune in now for a dose of fun, expert tips, and Ben’s contagious enthusiasm for this spectacular sport!

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From Self-Doubt to Success: Growing Confidence in Dogs & Humans Nov 05, 2024

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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!
In this episode, Lauren is joined by wonderful Pro Dog Trainer and Obedience Champion Linda, to talk about growing confidence in both dogs and humans, battling insecurities and dealing with imposter syndrome.
Join them as they chat about the stories and strategies that helped shape Linda’s career as a champion obedience trainer. From helping “spooky” dogs blossom into confident competitors to tackling her own self-doubt, Linda shares powerful, practical strategies for developing resilience in both ourselves and our four-legged friends.
This episode offers a warm, relatable, and motivational conversation about the importance of building trust with dogs and ourselves. Get ready to feel empowered and motivated to bring out the best in yourself and your dog by understanding how to recognise and address hidden insecurities and nurture confidence, one small step at a time.

Hear how Linda helped a nervous dog transform into a confident champion - and what that journey taught her about trust and patience.
Listen to Linda’s refreshingly real take on facing imposter syndrome - both in dog training and in life - and how she learned to quiet her inner critic.
Discover how dog training can be as much about our growth as it is about theirs, helping us step into leadership roles and embrace our strengths.
Pick up small but powerful tips on understanding your own insecurities and turning them into stepping stones for success.

Listen in as Lauren and Linda get to the heart of what it means to be a confident, compassionate trainer and an even more self-assured human. Prepare to walk away inspired to embrace growth - for you and your dog.
Your next optimism top-up and our favourite event: Super Trainer Live!
If you’ve not secured your spot at our 10th Anniversary Edition of Super Trainer Live, this is your personal invitation.
Get ready to enjoy three packed days of learning, energy and inspiration that will take your dog training - and your personal transformation - to the next level.

absolutedogs.me/stl2024

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Risking Forward: Exploring Life as a Vet and Pursuing Passion Oct 29, 2024

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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!
In this episode, Lauren chats with Kate, a passionate physio and amazing Pro Dog Trainer - and soon to be Gamechanger vet - whose journey is inspiring for anyone who’s ever pursued a lifelong dream.
Kate and Lauren dive into the idea of risking forward and share Kate's inspiring journey of taking bold steps towards becoming a vet later in life. Kate opens up about her path into veterinary school, sharing the challenges of balancing study with family life, the financial hurdles and the constant commitment it takes to pursue her passion. From the inevitable stress and intensity of exam season and the pressure to excel in an academically rigorous environment, to her goal of making a difference in animal care, Kate opens up about the realities of vet school and what keeps her motivated.
Listen in as she discusses how her perspective on animal welfare has evolved and shares her ideas for improving veterinary practices for both animals and their owners - including stress-reducing ideas for vet visits.
As she reflects on the support of her partner and her experiences in mixed-practice animal care, Kate’s enthusiasm and dedication shine through, reminding listeners that it’s never too late to follow a passion.
Lauren and Kate also discuss the importance of taking risks, saying yes to new opportunities, and letting passion guide your career choices. Kate gives us a peek into what’s next for her as she moves into the clinical phase of her training, and her thoughts on potentially working in mixed practice, blending her love for dogs, farm animals, and her physio background.
Tune in to hear more of Kate’s story and get inspired by her dedication to animals, her plans for the future, and the adventure of becoming a vet. This episode is packed with insights on resilience, growth, and the joys of chasing a dream.

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Trick Training 101: Improve Behaviour, Boost Confidence & Help Dogs Thrive Oct 22, 2024

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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!
In this episode, Lauren is joined by Pro Dog Trainer, canine fitness and trick training master, and superstar Naughty But Nice training expert, Jamie, to dive into the exciting world of tricks with dogs and explore the incredible benefits of trick training for dogs that struggle with training or behaviour problems, confidence issues, fitness struggles, and so much more!
Roll up, roll up and listen in as Jamie shares how tricks have not only helped transform her own Naughty But Nice dogs, but also the lives and behaviour of many of her clients' dogs, rescue dogs, and thousands of Absolute Dogs Gamechanger owners and their dogs all over the world! Together in this episode, Lauren and Jamie bring you a jam-packed session of tips, stories, and insights into how trick training can truly make a difference.
Whether you’re just starting or looking to up your game, this episode is brimming with excitement and practical advice for every dog owner, including:
🐾 How trick training can help reactive or sensitive dogs, and boost confidence in challenging environments.
🐾 Fun and easy tricks to start with, like spins, twists, and middle toes, plus creative uses of hoops for boosting fitness and focus.
🐾 The connection between tricks and fitness, and how they improve not only physical but also mental health for dogs.
🐾 Unique tips for teaching tricks like Rebound, and why some tricks should be tailored to your dog’s specific needs.
Tune in now for an inspiring conversation that where we break down why tricks aren't just for flashy fun – they’re essential for building skills and confidence, and they even help dogs with reactivity or fitness challenges too!
Want to join in the trick training fun, get a fresh focus for your training and build a better bond (and behaviour)? Discover the secrets behind trick training mastery in our Absolute Dogs There’s A Trick For That play book — a comprehensive guide packed with step-by-step instructions, visuals, and expert advice for every dog owner. As a valued listener, you can use code: TRICKS5 during checkout for £5 off and a FREE training clicker!

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Cockapoo Training Tips: How Tricks Solve Common Behaviour Problems Oct 15, 2024

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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!
In this episode, Lauren is joined by super Games Club Guru and Pro Dog Trainer, Karen, who is back to share her personal experiences from life as dog mum to her adorable, but no less Naughty But Nice cockapoo, Rupert. Listen in as Karen shares her game-changing insights and knowledge on how trick training can transform even the trickiest of behaviour struggles or training problems that dog parents might face with their cockapoos, doodles, poodles, cocker spaniels and all their crosses.
Get ready to discover the wonderful world of cockapoos and what it's really like to own and train these fun-loving, yet sometimes challenging dogs. Lauren and Karen explore the realities, bust the myths, share practical advice, and offer real-world solutions to some of the most common cockapoo quirks and behavioural struggles!
Whether you're a cockapoo owner or just curious about poodles and their crosses, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways, including:
🐾 Top tips for tackling common cockapoo and doodle breed behaviours like barking and reactivity, plus struggles like separation anxiety, grooming and handling.
🐾 How trick training can be a transformational, confidence-boosting approach for improving behaviour and boosting your bond with your cockapoo.
🐾 Insights into grooming and coat care challenges for cockapoos and other poodle crosses, and how to manage them successfully.
🐾 Personal insights from Karen on managing cockapoo resource guarding and creating a positive training environment.
By the end of this episode, you'll feel empowered with new techniques, inspiration, and a fresh perspective on how to support your dog’s unique needs. Tune in now for an enlightening exploration into cockapoo life, filled with tips, tricks, and solutions to help you tackle even the trickiest behaviours from your doodle dog with confidence!
Want to join in the trick training fun, get a fresh focus for your training and build a better bond (and behaviour) with your cockapoo, just like Karen and Rupert? Discover the secrets behind trick training mastery in our Absolute Dogs There’s A Trick For That play book — a comprehensive guide packed with step-by-step instructions, visuals, and expert advice for every dog owner. As a valued listener, you can use code: TRICKS5 during checkout for £5 off and a FREE training clicker!

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Puppy Training 101 for Confident Dogs & Socialisation Success Oct 08, 2024

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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!
Join us for an exciting, multi-perspective deep dive with our very own Lauren and two super special returning guests, Bill and Jen, as they team up to explore the incredible world of raising, training and understanding puppies! Together, they share heartwarming stories, invaluable insights, expert advice, and secrets to success from both pet dog owner and professional dog trainer perspectives.
Whether you're welcoming a new puppy home, facing common puppy training problems with a young dog, or you’re looking to hone your dog training skills, Lauren, Jen and Bill are bringing you the knowledge you need to succeed:
🐾 Insights on early puppy development, their innate instincts and adorable quirks.
🐾 Essential tips on appropriate socialisation and creating safe spaces for puppies.
🐾 Top strategies for nurturing confidence and emotional intelligence in young dogs.
In this episode, Lauren, Jen and Bill also focus on how to foster confident, well-socialised puppies from day one, including the importance of building strong foundations, balancing exposure to new experiences, and the power of "doing life" with your puppy and socialising them in a way that avoids overwhelm, stress and unnecessary risks.
This episode is packed with actionable advice, personal experiences, and expert tips to help guide you through common challenges and set you up for success in all aspects of puppy life, including:
✅ Growing trust, effective communication and a strong bond with your puppy
✅ Overcoming puppy training problems with games-based concept training.
✅ Getting early socialisation right without overexposing your puppy.
✅ Building confidence in shy or timid puppies and shaping skills for lifelong success.
✅ Managing siblings or multiple puppies whilst ensuring individual development.
✅ Balancing structure with flexibility in a puppy’s routine to avoid boredom and stress.
At Absolute Dogs, we're committed to empowering you with the tools and understanding necessary to raise a happy, confident, and well-adjusted dog so tune in now for actionable advice, practical puppy socialisation tips and uplifting stories that will inspire and guide you on your puppy training journey!

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Becoming Resilient: How to Grow and Navigate Life's Challenges Oct 01, 2024

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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!
In this epic and insightful episode, Lauren is joined once more by good friend and brilliant storyteller, Bill Sarine, to continue their heartfelt and inspiring deep dive into overcoming the challenges we face in life and together – and how we can all find the resilience to rise above them.
In an episode packed with energy, reflection, and plenty of moments that will leave you inspired, Lauren and Bill share how our toughest experiences can become our greatest strengths, offering real-life examples and emotional insights along the way.
Dive in with us as we explore the power of human connection, resilience, and embracing life’s uncertainties. Through candid conversations and meaningful reflections, Lauren and Bill unpack powerful strategies and practical mental and emotional tools that have empowered them to persevere through hardship – and to navigate life's toughest moments with courage and hope.
Lauren and Bill also discuss how resilience is built through adversity, and how we can turn life’s setbacks into opportunities for deeper meaning and fulfilment, bringing you truly valuable insights to help you:
✨ Understand the power of changing your personal narrative when life gets tough
✨ Uncover why embracing vulnerability can lead to healing and growth
✨ Learn the role of gratitude and mindset in overcoming obstacles
✨ Discover practical tips for staying grounded and strong through difficult times
✨ Be inspired to transform struggles into opportunities for personal evolution
This episode shines a light on the idea of courage in the face of adversity, encouraging us to push past our fears and embrace the opportunities that challenges bring. From handling unexpected life shifts to staying grounded through the chaos, Lauren and Bill open up about what it means to thrive, not just survive.
You won’t want to miss this empowering and heartfelt conversation that’s guaranteed to leave you feeling uplifted and ready to tackle whatever comes your way, so tune in now for an empowering journey into overcoming challenges and building unshakable resilience!

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Talking Sheep, Dogs and Secrets to Success with Shepherdess Emma Gray Sep 24, 2024

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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!
In this insightful episode, Lauren is joined by superb shepherdess Emma Gray, an amazingly talented sheepdog trainer and sheep farmer, and together they explore the unique bond between dogs and humans, focusing on how sheepdogs can teach us invaluable lessons about communication, trust, and teamwork.
Join us for an inspiring discussion filled with practical insights and personal anecdotes as Lauren and Emma’s combined wealth of experience reveals how training dogs parallels the challenges we face in everyday life, emphasizing the importance of patience and understanding in building strong relationships – both with our dogs and with ourselves.
In this episode, Lauren and Emma dive into all aspects of dog training, including:
🐾 The power of effective communication in training sheepdogs and its relevance to everyday interactions.
🐾 How understanding a dog’s instincts can enhance our training techniques.
🐾 The importance of patience and consistency in fostering a trusting relationship with our canine companions.
🐾 Personal stories from Emma's experiences that highlight the joys and challenges of working with dogs on a farm.
🐾 Tips for integrating training practices into daily life to strengthen the bond with our dogs.
Plus, throughout the episode, Emma shares her incredible journey from a young girl dreaming of farming life, to determined sheepdog trainer and all the way through to full-fledged sheep farmer, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs that define this remarkable path along the way.
Tune in now for a heart-warming exploration of trust, communication, and the special connection between shepherds and their dogs. Lauren and Emma’s passion and insights will leave you feeling inspired and empowered to embrace the journey of dog training.

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Why Is My Dog So Itchy? Stop the Scratch Cycle with Guest Pro Dog Trainer, Amanda Glickman Sep 17, 2024

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Welcome to this episode of the Sexier than a Squirrel Podcast, where we dig into a topic that plagues many dog owners: itchy dogs and skin problems! The knowledgeable Amanda Glickman joins Lauren to explore the reasons behind the constant scratching, biting, and discomfort many dogs experience. If you’ve ever wondered why your dog seems to be in a never-ending battle with itch, this episode is packed with insights to help you understand and address the root causes.

In this episode, we cover:

The Root Causes of Itchiness: We delve into the various factors that can lead to itchy skin in dogs, from allergies and parasites to environmental factors and stress. Understanding the "why" behind the itch is the first step to finding an effective solution.
Actionable Strategies for Relief: Amanda and Lauren share a wealth of practical tips and approaches to alleviate your dog’s itchiness. From daily routines to long-term solutions, they cover what really works to give your dog the comfort it deserves.
Real-Life Examples and Case Studies: Learn from relatable stories of dogs who have struggled with itchiness and the steps their owners took to turn things around. These examples provide a roadmap that you can adapt to your dog's unique needs.
The Power of Natural Support: Discover how products like A-OK9's range of wellness solutions can play a crucial role in supporting your dog's skin health. Lauren and Amanda discuss how incorporating natural supplements and remedies into your dog's routine can improve their comfort and happiness.

Why You Should Listen:

Itchiness in dogs can often feel like an unsolvable puzzle, but this episode breaks down the complexities into simple, manageable steps. Understanding the triggers and how to address them can help your dog lead a more comfortable, itch-free life. With expert insights and practical advice, this episode is a must-listen for any dog owner who wants to tackle skin issues head-on and explore the benefits of natural support like A-OK9.

Join us as we demystify the world of itchy dogs and provide you with the knowledge and tools to give your dog the relief they need. It's time to make those itchy days a thing of the past!
Check out our sister company at www.a-ok9.com for their new itch less solution, Itch-K9 --- launching w/c 16 September 2024 - watch for a really special launch offer!

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