Mrs. Greener has used the "squirrel" distraction on me for years. Works every time.Our dog wouldn't release the ball so I could throw it. After doing the tug of war thing for a few minutes, I finally said, "Look, squirrel!" She dropped it and ran to the patio door to look out.
Around here "Snake!" or "Gator!" are also guaranteed attention getters. Best results when you point behind the other while making a panic face.The typical distraction terms are birdie or kitty. There are very few squirrels in AZ and I've not said it to her ever.