Is “Friendly” Overrated? Building Environmentally Robust Dogs ft. Dave Hibbert

Send us a text

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 between socialisation and environmental training
• Why “friendly” dogs often fail in the real world
• How to build calm, focused, and neutral responses to distractions
• Easy home setups using cardboard chaos, metal bowls, and wobble boards
• Why car parks, industrial estates, and motorway service stations make the best training grounds
• The truth about early puppy exposure, even before vaccinations

"We don’t want a social dog," says Lauren. “We want one who can ignore the chaos and tune in to us.”

This episode is a must-watch if you're training a working dog, raising a high-energy pup, or just tired of your dog getting distracted by every passerby.

🔔 Subscribe for more games-based training strategies that actually work.
🎧 Available wherever you get your podcasts — or watch right here!

Get Access to our 10 Days to a Perfect Puppy Course here:
https://absolutedogs.me/perfectpuppy 

#dogtraining #puppytraining #socialisation #environmentaltraining #absolutedogs #confidentdogs #dogbehaviour #dogpodcast #reactivedog #puppydevelopment #dogtrainingtips

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!
https://absolutedogs.me/gamesclub

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!
https://absolutedogs.me/prodogtrainerclub

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!