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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 once again by canine physiotherapist and hydrotherapist Mel to tackle a topic that every dog owner thinks they’ve got covered: exercise. Because your dog’s walk should be the best part of their day… not the moment an avoidable injury begins. From dogs launching out of the boot and sprinting cold, to high-speed chases, collisions, and endless ball throwing, many “normal” routines are actually putting dogs at risk.

In this episode, we dig into what safe, effective exercise really looks like. Mel explains what the canine body actually needs, and why those first 10–15 minutes of on-lead walking can completely change the picture. Together, Lauren and Mel explore how simple management choices - like using pathways, long lines, and food scattering - can prevent that explosive first sprint and reduce injury risk before it even starts.

They also talk through real-life scenarios, including multi-dog households and dogs returning to ‘normal’ walks following an injury. You’ll hear how to safely reintroduce off-lead time, when play together is helpful (and when it’s not), and how to step in before fun turns into a crash. This is all about understanding arousal, movement, and giving your dog the best chance to move well and stay sound.

We also explore the hidden risks in everyday environments, from wet ground and deep sand to pebble beaches and even different types of astroturf. Plus, we cover how exercise should change across your dog’s life, from older dogs with arthritic changes to fit, active sports dogs, and why nutrition needs to support increased training load.

If you want to exercise your dog in a way that builds strength, protects their body, and supports long-term health, this episode is for you.

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