In this episode of The Yappy Hour, host Nathan Dunleavy chats with Jay Gurden a dog behaviour expert, author, and founder of Good Guardianship, about how to truly support sensitive, complex, or "reactive" dogs.

Jay shares powerful advice on how to build trust, reduce stress, and avoid the trap of “fixing” behaviours. You’ll learn how to read subtle body language, help your dog decompress, and become the advocate your dog needs in a busy world.

Whether you're struggling with reactivity, over-arousal, fear-based behaviours, or just want to deepen your bond with your dog, this episode is full of practical tips and heartfelt reassurance.

Topics covered:

• What “reactive” really means and why we’re moving away from that label
• Why trust and choice matter so much in behaviour change
• How to handle setbacks and bad days
• Tools and mindset shifts that help guardians and dogs thrive
• Jay’s own experience with her sensitive dog, Finn

🎧 Grab a cuppa, settle in, and listen to this supportive, insightful episode that will leave you feeling empowered and understood.

For more episodes visit the Yappily pod page!

Decoding the Dachshund | Yappy Hour Podcast with Nicky Hammel

Welcome to The Yappy Hour, powered by Yappily – the podcast for dog lovers who want to deepen their bond with their four-legged friends. In this episode, host Nathan Dunleavy chats with Nicky Hammel, a licensed breeder and behaviourist specialising in long-haired dachshunds.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How to read and understand dachshund behaviour
• Common behavioural challenges and how to tackle them
• The truth about dachshunds' "stubborn" reputation
• Why responsible breeding is crucial and what to look for in a breeder
• Managing barking, reactivity, and separation anxiety
• Tips for raising a well-adjusted dachshund from puppyhood to adolescence
• Essential health considerations like IVDD and PRA

Listen to more episodes on The Yappy Hour Pod Page

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Join Nathan Dunleavy on this episode of Yappy Hour as he welcomes Carrie-Anne Selwyn, the founder of Canine Hoopers World. Discover how the inclusive and low-impact dog sport, Hoopers, is transforming the way dog guardians connect with their pets.

Carrie-Anne shares her journey from pet dog trainer to international Hoopers advocate, the benefits of Hoopers for all breeds and ages, and how anyone can get started with minimal equipment. Whether you’re looking for a fun activity, a confidence builder for reactive dogs, or a new way to bond with your pup, this episode is packed with insights and practical advice.

Listen in to learn how Hoopers can be practised casually at home or competitively, and how it fosters trust, focus, and teamwork between dogs and their guardians.

Tune in now to find out why Hoopers is the perfect sport for every dog, no matter their size, age, or ability!

Listen to more episodes on the pod page!