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

40 Episodes
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By: absoluteDogs

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!

The Art Of Balancing Training, Recovery and Performance with Sport Dogs ft. Mel Doyle - Part I
Last Tuesday at 11:00 AM

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Every competitive dog handler faces a crucial balancing act: maximizing performance while preserving their canine athlete's long-term wellbeing. This eye-opening conversation with small animal physiotherapist Mel challenges conventional wisdom about training and recovery for sports dogs.

"Your dog only has so many jumps in their lifetime." This simple yet profound statement forms the foundation of our discussion, exploring how recovery isn't just about rest, but about strategic rehabilitation that allows muscle fibers to repair and strengthen properly. Mel reveals the surprising truth that many handlers unwittingly compromise their dogs' recovery by...


The #1 Dog Training System That Works: Pro Secrets for Behaviour That Actually Lasts
07/01/2025

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Whether you’re a seasoned dog trainer or a passionate dog owner, this episode will change how you approach training — forever.

Join expert trainers Lauren Langman and Dave Hibbert as they unpack the Small Incremental Learning System (SILS) — the step-by-step method behind reliable, long-lasting behaviour change in dogs of all breeds and backgrounds.

For trainers, SILS may feel familiar — a structure you've used instinctively. For dog owners, it’s a practical roadmap to transform your dog’s behaviour without overwhelm, frustration, or gimmicks.

💡 What...


The ABCs of Dog Training: Simple Principles for Powerful Results ft. Dave Hibbert
06/24/2025

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Ever wondered why your dog performs perfectly at home but seems to forget everything when you're out in public? The secret might lie in understanding the ABCs of dog training.

Dave, a veteran police dog trainer with over two decades of experience, breaks down this deceptively simple framework that has revolutionized how professionals approach dog training. Rather than focusing solely on correcting behaviors, the ABC model—Antecedent, Behavior, Consequence—provides multiple leverage points to create lasting change in your dog's responses.

The conversation dives deep into the "three A's" that...


Naughty but Nice Transformation: How Simple Games Transform "Difficult" Dogs
06/17/2025

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Struggling with a challenging, reactive, or overly sensitive dog? You’re not alone—and you’re not failing. In this powerful episode, top dog trainers Lauren Langman and Sam reveal the proven games-based training methods they use to transform “naughty but nice” dogs into calm, confident, and focused companions.

Discover how to replace traditional obedience struggles with playful strategies that work with your dog’s emotions, not against them. This episode explores:

🔁 The Disengagement Pattern that teaches your dog to tune in to you instead of distractions<...


Building The Resilient Dog: Why It Matters More Than You Think
06/10/2025

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What makes some dogs able to handle anything life throws at them while others crumble under pressure? The answer lies in resilience – that magical quality that transforms anxious, reactive dogs into confident companions who can accompany you anywhere.

Lauren Langman and special guest Amanda dive deep into how to build rock-solid resilience in dogs of all ages. They share personal stories of their most bomb-proof dogs – from Tokyo the unflappable Border Collie who could sleep through chaos to Salty the adventurous Labrador who sailed boats and rode gondolas without a care in t...


Is “Friendly” Overrated? Building Environmentally Robust Dogs ft. Dave Hibbert
06/03/2025

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Is Your Dog Too Friendly? Why Socialisation Might Be Setting You Back 🐾

What if everything you've been told about socialisation is… wrong?

In this episode, leading dog trainer Lauren Langman and operational dog expert Dave Hibbert (whose dogs have worked events like the Queen’s funeral) dive deep into the surprising truth behind confident dogs. Spoiler: it’s not about being friendly—it’s about being environmentally bulletproof.

🎯 You’ll learn:

The real difference be...


Confidence Hoops: The Secret to Calmer, Braver, Happier Dogs
05/27/2025

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Ever wondered how something as simple as a hula hoop could transform your dog's confidence? This game-changing episode reveals the science and magic behind "confidence hoops" training.

Lauren and Jamie unpack why this accessible training method works for dogs of all ages and personality types - from nervous rescues to boisterous puppies, senior dogs with mobility issues to high-drive sport prospects. You'll discover how giving dogs control over movement and noise helps them develop profound confidence that transfers to real-world challenges.

The beauty of confidence hoops lies in their...


Planning For Perfect Puppy Adventures ft. Linda Hughes
05/20/2025

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A tiny new addition is about to make a big impact on Linda's home - and perhaps even the prestigious rings of Crufts! In this delightful conversation, Linda reveals her plans for integrating Bobble, her new toy poodle puppy, into her existing multi-dog household.

From thoughtful preparation to training philosophy, Linda shares practical wisdom that challenges conventional thinking about puppy raising. "Every piece of food is going to come from either enrichment or from me," she explains, highlighting how this foundation creates opportunities for bonding and learning from day one. Her...


Big Dogs and Lead Walking Mastery
05/13/2025

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Have you ever felt the humiliation of being dragged down the street by your large dog? Or wondered if you'd made a terrible mistake adopting a powerful breed that outweighs you? You're not alone.

This eye-opening conversation with Alice reveals her journey with 40kg Mastiff mix Bonnie – from painful incidents where she was pulled over to confidently walking together as a team. What's remarkable isn't just the transformation, but how it happened without relying on physical strength, dominance, or harsh methods.

The secret lies in understanding what concepts large do...


Stop Jumping! Top Tips To Combat Your Dog's Bounce ft. Dave Hibbert
05/06/2025

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Tired of your dog jumping all over you and your guests? You're not alone. In this dynamic episode, dog training experts Lauren Langman and Dave tackle one of the most common yet frustrating canine behaviors - jumping up.

We explore why jumping becomes problematic and why it's worth addressing beyond just keeping your clothes clean. Lauren shares a poignant personal story about her father's battle with cancer, highlighting how jumping dogs can pose genuine safety risks for vulnerable individuals. The conversation delves into legal considerations too - most dog owners don't...


Rethinking Parasite Prevention With Bug-K9
04/29/2025

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The parasite prevention revolution is here, and it's changing how we think about protecting our dogs from fleas, ticks, worms, and other unwanted visitors. Did you know that approximately 15% of dogs carry Giardia? With roughly 25 million dogs and cats in the UK, that's a staggering 3.75 million potential carriers spreading these parasites throughout our environment.

For decades, we've trusted conventional veterinary treatments without question, applying chemical spot-ons and administering worming tablets as directed. But what if there's a better way? This eye-opening conversation explores the dark side of traditional parasite treatments – from th...


Big Dog Reactivity & How Playing Games Save Lives
04/22/2025

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What makes the difference between a failed rescue adoption and a success story? Alice joins us to share her journey with Bonnie, a 40-kilo German Shepherd-Cane Corso-Mastiff mix with a troubled past involving another dog's death. This powerful conversation reveals how games-based training transformed their relationship and could save countless rescue dogs from becoming part of the heartbreaking 50% failure statistic.

When Alice first brought Bonnie home, she faced what many rescue adopters experience – the gradual emergence of serious behavioral issues including reactivity and separation anxiety that made daily life challenging. Rather th...


Defend Your Dog ft. Amanda Glickman
04/15/2025

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When the unthinkable happens and your dog is attacked, how do you respond? This question drove Amanda to develop practical defense strategies after her young spaniel Harley was cornered and attacked by two off-leash dogs on what should have been a routine walk. The trauma affected both of them deeply, but their journey of recovery offers powerful lessons for all dog owners.

Amanda and Lauren dive into a surprisingly simple yet effective tool for dog defense: an umbrella. This everyday item serves three crucial functions - breaking visual contact between dogs...


Surviving Poonami: Top Tips For A Poorly Tummy
04/08/2025

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Dog owners, we've all been there – the dreaded "poonami" that strikes without warning, often in the middle of the night. That's exactly what prompted this candid conversation about canine digestive health after Lauren's co-host Linda spent a night up every 90 minutes with her tiny puppy Bobble.

This practical guide walks you through what to do when digestive disaster strikes. We share our emergency protocol using products like Rescue-K9 Rapid Support and demonstrate exactly how to administer it to reluctant dogs (hint: hold their chin up after placing the paste in their ch...


A Reactivity Transformation: A Naughty but Nice Zero To Hero Success Story!
04/01/2025

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Ever been told your dog is a lost cause? Meet Alice and Bonnie—a story that proves second chances can lead to extraordinary transformations.

When Alice adopted Bonnie, a powerful brindle mastiff mix with a history of aggression that had resulted in another dog's death, she had no idea what she was getting into. That first walk when Bonnie dragged Alice across a field in a reactive frenzy made one thing clear: this would be no ordinary rehabilitation journey.

"We definitely wondered if this was beyond our capabilities," Alice co...


From Frustration to Freedom: Transform Your Dog Walks
03/25/2025

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Pulling on lead – it's the frustration that can transform a peaceful dog walk into an arm-wrenching ordeal. Whether you're dealing with a 7-kilo terrier or a 40-kilo German Shepherd, pulling creates a disconnection that leaves both ends of the leash frustrated and stressed.

In this revealing conversation, Lauren Langman and Dave tackle one of the most common dog walking complaints head-on. Drawing from their extensive experience with both pet dogs and professional working canines, they dispel the myth that pulling is just something dog owners must endure. Lauren shares how her ow...


Rupert Stole My Pants and Tried to Make Them Crotchless
03/19/2025

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Resource guarding can transform even the sweetest dog into a possessive, growling guardian overnight. This revealing conversation with Karen, owner of Rupert—a lovable yet challenging cockapoo—takes you behind the scenes of living with a resource guarding dog who has actually bitten.

Karen doesn't sugarcoat the reality: some days it's scary, frustrating, and filled with self-doubt. Yet she shares the remarkable ways she's learned to work with Rupert's limitations rather than against them. From the hilarious hedgehog-under-the-saucepan incident to managing stolen socks and pants, you'll discover practical strategies that transform conf...


Unlocking Canine Kleptomania: Tips for Tackling Your Dog's Thieving Habits
03/11/2025

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This episode dives into why dogs steal and offers practical solutions for dog owners struggling with this common behaviour. With insights on environmental management, training strategies, and understanding canine instincts, listeners can gain valuable knowledge to curb stealing.

• Exploration of the instinctual reasons behind stealing
• The importance of calm reactions instead of confrontation
• Tips on swapping items to minimise stealing
• Managing spaces to prevent theft before it occurs
• The role of boundaries and crates in fostering good behaviour
• Building a positive environment for dogs to relax and thrive


Help … I’m a newbie at Crufts …..
03/05/2025

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Are you ready to experience the rush of participating in one of the world’s most prestigious dog agility competitions? Join us as we delve into the journey of Teri and her beloved dog, Jasper, who is stepping into the limelight at Crufts for the very first time. This episode captures the excitement, nerves, and valuable insights that come with preparing for such a significant event in the dog agility scene.

Teri shares her heartfelt story of how she has dreamt of competing at Crufts for as long as she can re...


A Separation Anxiety Journey: With Challenges, Innovation & Community
02/25/2025

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Ever felt the pangs of guilt from a noise complaint because your dog couldn't bear to be alone? Join us as Alice shares her deeply personal journey with her rescue dog, Bonnie, a German Shepherd and Cane Corso mix. After an unexpected noise complaint, Alice navigated the tricky world of separation anxiety, balancing the need to mend neighbourhood relations with the well-being of her gentle giant. Her story of flexibility and adaptability in the face of community challenges offers invaluable insights for dog owners everywhere.

Discover the transformative power of technology...


From Fear to Fun: Confidence and Mindset in Dog Sports
02/18/2025

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This episode emphasizes the joy of participation, the thrill of goal setting, and the empowerment found in staying true to one's passion.

Ever wondered why some of us feel the thrill of competition more fiercely than others? Join us as we unravel the psychology behind competitive motivation in dog training. Discover how personality traits like agreeableness and neuroticism influence our competitive instincts and shape our behaviour in the arena.

The emotional bond with our dogs is at the heart of competitive dog sports. Hear personal anecdotes about the transformation...


Transform Your Dog's Behaviour with Pro Dog Trainer Club
02/11/2025

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This episode explores the transformative power of online dog training, highlighting how Pro Dog Trainer Club and live Power Hours create accessible, engaging, and fun environments for both dogs and their owners. Owners learn to harness play-based techniques, overcome the stress of traditional training sessions, and connect with a supportive community of fellow dog lovers. 

• PDT Club is a source of endless training ideas 
• Advantages of online training for busy lifestyles 
• Comparison between traditional classes and online flexibility 
• Community support enhances training experiences 
• Power Hours offers live, interactive lea...


Unleashing Success: How to Become Your Dog’s Top Priority
02/04/2025

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Episode Title: Unleashing Success: How to Become Your Dog’s Top Priority

Host: Lauren Langman
Guest: Sam Askew
Duration: 31 minutes, 46 seconds

Description:
In this episode of Absolute Dogs, Lauren Langman and guest, AbsoluteDogs Instructor and Pro Dog Trainer, Sam, shares expert insights into how you can become your dog’s top priority using game-based training. Whether you’re dealing with a reactive dog, struggling with recall, or just looking to build a stronger relationship, this episode is pack...


Stop Reactivity: How to Help Your Excited, Stressed or Fearful Dog
01/28/2025

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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, Competitive Obedience Champion, and experienced Naughty But Nice dog owner, Linda, to explore the world of reactivity and what it means to own, train and live with a reactive dog, sharing personal stories, hard-earned lessons, and the game-changing solutions that have made a difference for her, and for reactive dogs and owners all over...


Top Tips to Thrive as a Dog Trainer & Agility Competitor with Selena Bray
01/21/2025

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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 exciting episode, Lauren is joined by super fellow dog trainer, competitor, and Agility Champion, Selena Bray, to explore what makes a successful trainer and what it takes to be a successful competitor too! Together, they share decades of experience in agility training and competition, uncovering invaluable insights for trainers and competitors alike.


Join Lauren and Selena as they dig...


A Puppy Parent's Guide: Pro Tips for Training & Multi-Dog Happiness
01/14/2025

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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 Gamechanger, Pro Dog Trainer, and new puppy parent, Natalie, to dive into the joys, challenges, and surprises of life with a new puppy AND introducing them into a multi-dog household.


Join us for an episode that explores the rollercoaster of puppy parenthood, and all the golden rules that will help you learn how...


Dogs and Kids: Getting the Relationship Right
01/07/2025

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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, Naughty But Nice training expert, rescue dog advocate – and mum of three – Jamie, to chat about the rewarding yet sometimes challenging dynamics of creating a harmonious life with kids and dogs.

Bringing dogs and children together can be magical, but it’s also a journey that requires preparation, understanding, and a sprink...


Mindset Mastery Secrets: How to Thrive in Dog Sports, Training & Life
12/31/2024

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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 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...


Pro Tips for Stress-free Festivities and Happy Holidays with Your Dog
12/24/2024

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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 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...


The Human End of the Lead
12/17/2024

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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, 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...


Rescue Dogs: Building Trust, Confidence and Connection
12/10/2024

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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 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 ex...


Scentsational Fun: The Power of Scent Training for Every Dog
12/03/2024

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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 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...


The Moments We Live For: Maintaining a Positive Mindset
11/26/2024

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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 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 an...


Putting the FUN Back into Obedience Training
11/19/2024

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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...


The Wonderful World of Frisbee: Tips from a Disc Dog Pro
11/12/2024

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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 th...


From Self-Doubt to Success: Growing Confidence in Dogs & Humans
11/05/2024

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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 tac...


Risking Forward: Exploring Life as a Vet and Pursuing Passion
10/29/2024

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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 li...


Trick Training 101: Improve Behaviour, Boost Confidence & Help Dogs Thrive
10/22/2024

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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...


Cockapoo Training Tips: How Tricks Solve Common Behaviour Problems
10/15/2024

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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...


Puppy Training 101 for Confident Dogs & Socialisation Success
10/08/2024

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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...