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

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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 and empowering episode, Lauren is joined by amazing long-time friend, fellow agility lover and super Pro Dog Trainer, Kelly, to explore the powerful role your mindset plays in dog sports, training and beyond!

Join us for an inspiring discussion between friends that unpacks how personal preparation, resilience, and mental agility can transform your competitive experience and empower your journey in and out of the ring — no matter whether you are training your dog for top level sports, solving behaviour struggles or looking to master your own mindset for a happier, healthier lifestyle!

Listen in to discover practical mindset techniques to transform your training, competing, and everyday life, including:
🌟 The importance of mental rituals and preparation. 
🌟 Practical strategies for staying present and focused during competitions.
🌟 Why celebrating small wins leads to big successes.
🌟 How to handle setbacks with grace and purpose.
🌟 Overcoming external pressures and finding your competitive edge.

In this episode, Lauren and Kelly are taking you on a journey of learning and laughter, reflecting on personal experiences, lessons learned, and top strategies that can help anyone — from competitive handlers to everyday dog lovers — excel when the stakes are high.

Tune in now for a mindset masterclass packed with actionable tips, heartfelt stories, and a healthy dose of humour that will leave you feeling inspired and ready to conquer your goals.

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! 

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!

In this episode, Lauren is joined by amazing Pro Dog Trainer and wonderful friend, Kelly, for an insightful and timely deep dive into common festive season struggles, including Christmas chaos and New Year festivities, to help you and your dog navigate the holiday season with ease and confidence.

Join us in this festive edition as we bring you invaluable tips and advice while exploring the unique challenges that come with this busy time of year – from managing multiple dogs and guests, to tackling potential hazards like festive foods and loud fireworks. 

In this episode, you’ll discover strategies to keep your canine companion cool, calm and content during this most wonderful (and sometimes chaotic) time of the year, such as:
🐾 Why “fair doesn’t mean equal” and how it applies to your dog(s).
🐾 How to tailor holiday plans to suit your dog’s personality.
🐾 Essential safety tips for avoiding holiday hazards.
🐾 The power of boundary games and how they can create calm amidst chaos.
🐾 The importance of preparation and knowing local emergency vet details.
🐾 The value of enrichment activities when it comes to the festive season.
🐾 Fun, festive ways to include your dog in celebrations while prioritising their wellbeing.

This episode is your ultimate guide to a stress-free holiday season for you and your canine companion. From expert insights to practical advice, we’ve got you covered for everything Christmas and beyond. You’ll feel inspired, prepared, and ready to make this season joyful for every member of your household.

Tune in now for practical strategies, heartfelt stories, and festive cheer to make this holiday season your best one yet!

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! 

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!

In this episode, the very wonderful Linda is back to chat to Lauren about the all-important human end of the lead - both as an owner and as a trainer.

Together, Lauren and Linda consider the pivotal role we play in the dog-human partnership, highlighting the importance of being mindful of what we bring to the relationship and of recognising how our behaviour and emotional state shapes our dogs’ experiences.

Listen in as they chat about how much dogs pick up on from us and how our own reactions can influence the way our dogs react to situations. From the energy of the people we mix with to how we handle unexpected challenges, everything feeds down the leash. They discuss the power of advocating for our dogs in everyday situations - whether that’s politely redirecting attention from strangers or deciding when it’s time to take our dogs away from situations they aren’t equipped to handle - and offer practical advice on staying calm, keeping things positive, and moving forward with grace when things go awry.

The episode is a powerful reminder of the immense responsibility and joy that comes with being the human end of the leash.

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! 

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!

In this episode, Lauren is joined once again by wonderful Pro Dog Trainer and passionate rescue dog advocate Katrin, who is back to share her experiences of welcoming her latest rescue, Nico, into her growing multi-dog household.

Lauren and Katrin discuss why it’s so important to provide any new dog time to decompress and settle into their new environment before expecting too much from them - particularly when you’re integrating a new dog into a home with other resident dogs. They chat about the value of getting to know your dog’s unique personality, spending time building your relationship, growing trust, setting boundaries and taking things slowly.

Discover why ditching the walk can be a game-changer for new rescues, how enrichment activities and simple, confidence-building games can ease the transition into their forever homes, and how supporting brain health and gut health go hand in hand with training.

Katrin shares her future training goals for Nico, as well as her aspirations for him to be a future demo dog - while acknowledging the skills he needs to grow first. Be inspired as she shares how games-based training has transformed other dogs she’s welcomed into her home - particularly Naughty But Nice Clyde, who has overcome many challenges since he found his home with her.

Katrin’s passion and dedication is an inspiration - and this conversation is a celebration of the incredible resilience of rescue dogs - and the incredible people who give them a second chance.

Keen to keep up with Katrin’s recall training journey with Nico? She’ll be sharing her progress in our Games Club community.

Join Games Club.

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! 

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!

In this episode, Lauren is joined once again by elite operational and search dog trainer, and explosive detection expert, Dave. Together, they dive nose-first into the fascinating world of scent.

Listen in as they chat about why scentwork is one of the most accessible and enriching activities for dogs of all breeds, personalities, and experience levels. Whether your dog is driven by food, toys, or sheer curiosity, scentwork can tap into their natural instincts and provide an enriching and purposeful outlet for their energy.

Dave shares why solid foundations are the cornerstone of success in scent training. From teaching your dog the basics of searching to ensuring consistency in your cues, these early steps build the confidence and clarity needed for both you and your dog to make a brilliant scentwork team. And don’t worry – you don’t need a professional setup to get started! Dave explains how you can begin at home with simple, everyday items.

One of the standout benefits of scentwork? The incredible mental and physical enrichment it provides. It’s not just about finding objects – it’s about giving your dog a job, a purpose, and an outlet for their innate abilities. For reactive or “Naughty But Nice” dogs, scent training can be a game-changer, offering them a focus that helps reduce stress and redirect their energy in positive ways.

If you’ve ever fancied trying scentwork with your own dog but weren’t sure whether it was a good fit for you and your dog, this conversation will leave you feeling empowered to give it a go. By the end of the episode you’ll be off in search of plastic cones to build your very own scent wall!

Keen to learn more? Check out Scent-sational Fun-damentals now!

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! 

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!

In this episode, Lauren is joined once again by her good friend Bill for a heartfelt conversation about maintaining a positive mindset and focusing on what’s within your control.

They kick things off by discussing the grip that technology, especially our phones, can have on our lives, reflecting on how easy it is to get caught up in mindless scrolling and constant notifications. Listen in for some top tips for setting boundaries with devices to create space for the things that really matter, and a reminder to focus on the present moment.

The conversation then shifts to the importance of living life on your own terms. Lauren and Bill explore the challenges of balancing personal goals with the expectations of others, offering suggestions for how to avoid being dictated to by other people’s timetables. They also talk candidly about learning to say “no” and reclaiming your autonomy in a world full of demands.

As the discussion continues, Lauren and Bill reflect on what it really means to measure success. Is it about external achievements, or something more personal? They share their perspectives on finding fulfilment through alignment with your values, celebrating small wins, and embracing progress over perfection.

Throughout the episode, Lauren and Bill return to the simple yet profound idea of presence. They talk about the beauty of living in the moment, cherishing the small joys, and practising gratitude even in tough times. Their conversation serves as a reminder to let go of what you can’t control and focus on the moments that make life worth living.

Whether you’re feeling bogged down by the pressures of modern life, or simply seeking a little inspiration to live with greater intention, this conversation is definitely worth a listen!

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! 

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!

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!

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! 

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!

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!

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! 

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!

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 

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! 

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!

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.

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!