The Art of Canine Physio: Exercise & Fitness Foundations for Every Dog

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! Better performance and fewer injuries don’t start with fancy equipment. They start with the basics: a balanced stand, a square sit, and the patience to slow down. In this episode, Lauren sits down with canine physiotherapist and hydrotherapist Mel to talk about what really builds strong, capable dogs. They chat about why stillness is so important, how a steady stand builds strength, body awareness, and focus, and why those skills carry over to everything from agility to everyday handling. Mel explains the kinds of exercises she would typically start with in a physio setting and how those same foundations can be thoughtfully built into the fitness work you do at home. You'll hear how she uses forward focus to reduce fidgeting, how she builds a true square sit, the value of small upward reaches to wake up the core, and the importance of coaching clean sit-to-stand transitions without shuffling feet or dipping spines. Mel also explains how she picks the right starting point for the dog in front of her - often core control before paw perfection - and why it’s so important to set both dog and owner up for success. Lauren admits she was surprised to learn how long muscle really takes to build (typically six weeks before you see proper, measurable development) and Mel highlights the other key piece of the puzzle: fuel. If you’re asking your dog to grow muscle while keeping calories the same, it simply won’t happen. Strength takes time, consistency, and enough nutrition to support the work. If you’re fascinated about canine physiotherapy or curious about safe, simple foundation exercises you can build into your dog’s routine, this episode is a must 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 ! 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! 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!

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The Art of Canine Physio: Exercise & Fitness Foundations for Every Dog is an episode from Sexier Than A Squirrel: Dog Training That Gets Real Life Results by absoluteDogs.

This episode is 25:16 long.

This episode was published on Mar 10, 2026.

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