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 wonderful Sam for a refreshingly honest conversation about something many dog owners struggle with: walks that just don’t work.
If your dog melts down on walks and you feel that knot of dread before you even pick up the lead, you are not alone - and you are not doing anything “wrong”.
Together, Lauren and Sam unpack why the traditional daily walk can actually be the hardest possible exercise plan for some dogs, especially those who are reactive, worried, or easily tipped into over-arousal. When a dog is in a state of panic, learning simply isn’t possible, and busy environments can quickly become a daily rehearsal of stress for both you and your dog.
So instead, we give ourselves permission to do it differently: think exercise, not walks.
This episode explores practical, flexible alternatives that meet dogs where they are. From strength-building and slow, intentional movement at home, to Cavaletti work, Confidence Circuits, and fun food-based games that burn energy quickly, Lauren and Sam share ideas that are both achievable and effective.
They also talk about how to make outdoor exercise work for your dog, including choosing quieter locations, using enclosed fields, and understanding how timing and space can make all the difference.
Along the way, they dive into the kinds of movement that really support behaviour change - including proprioception work and simple core exercises that help dogs feel more balanced and in control of their bodies.
