Dog Enrichment with Tori Mistick

Dec 10

How can enriching your dog’s life actually make your life better? In the Season 1 finale, Tori Mistick pulls together the biggest lessons from her deep dive into dog enrichment and reveals the surprising, science-backed ways these activities boost your happiness, focus, motivation, and overall well-being. You’ll learn why variety, novelty, shared activities, and even tiny moments of connection with your dog can transform the way you move through your day. This episode is your reminder that enrichment isn’t just something you give your dog, it’s something that gives back to you. WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS EPISODE: 02:27 Why variety and novelty matter in dog enrichment 04:27 The magic of giving your dog choice and control 06:23 Activities to do together 10:10 Research: how three minutes with your dog boosts your brain and mood 13:53 The science of taking a break: why short, joyful pauses help you thrive 17:03 Tiny enrichment breaks to make your workday better 18:30 The Blue Zones, social enrichment, and longevity 20:54 Building community and friendships through dog enrichment 21:58 The real truth: grow, connect, and enrich together This is the final episode of Season 1 of Dog Enrichment with Tori Mistick. Thank you for listening, sharing, and being part of this journey. If you’ve loved the show, please spread the word to a dog parent or a friend who’s curious about the science behind the magic of dogs—and don’t forget to leave a review! MORE FOR YOU & YOUR DOG: Mental Enrichment Activity Pack → https://wearwagrepeat.com/dog-enrichment-mental-activity-pack/ Show notes, links, and study citations: http://toriknowsdogs.com/podcast Want closed captions or to watch me and Burt in action? Watch all episodes on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@ToriMistick GET IN TOUCH: Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/tmistick Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/wearwagrepeat Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/tmistick/ Be sure to follow so you and your pup won’t miss what’s next! 🐾💛

Nov 26

How do you help your dog stay sharp, confident, and comfortable as they age? In this practical science-backed episode, certified canine enrichment expert Tori Mistick breaks down the power of physical enrichment. Learn how simple movement, textures, routines, and touch can keep your dog’s brain and body feeling young. You’ll learn why light, varied movement (not intense workouts!) is linked to a 33% lower risk of canine cognitive decline, why doing the same sidewalk loop daily can actually increase injury risk, and how terrain walks, DIY obstacle courses, and even a nightly massage can support healthier aging for your dog. Tori shares real research in human-speak, stories from life with her senior Labrador Burt, and easy ideas you can try this week even if you’re stuck indoors due to weather! WHAT’S COVERED IN THIS EPISODE: 02:05 What physical enrichment actually is (it’s not about wearing your dog out) 03:01 The 11,000-dog study: light movement lowers dementia risk by 33% 05:16 Terrain walks: how texture and variety keep your dog’s brain young 08:31 Why repetitive walks increase injury risk (according to canine sports medicine) 09:10 DIY “surface circus” ideas for indoor enrichment 10:15 The surprising science behind canine massage and touch 13:08 Recap: the 3 pillars of physical enrichment 14:44 Listener Q&A: calming a wild pup stuck inside during bad weather 16:12 Indoor enrichment activities, balance work, and relaxing music 18:36 Product Spotlight: two treat-dispensing toys perfect for mealtime movement PRODUCTS + RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Hide & Scent Scent Work Kit → https://www.hideandscentpets.com/ohpsyw 15% off with code: ENRICHMENTWITHTORI Caitlin’s Canine Fitness YouTube Playlist → https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwtmSP2gftSplgaBFviywMbSwPie4tPNF&si=9kGWGnuwOK8jSWhs Outward Hound Food-Dispensing Ball → https://amzn.to/4pABGnM Snowman-Style Treat Ball → https://amzn.to/3JXmAcN Thanks for listening! Ultimate Enrichment Guide + The Mental Enrichment Activity Pack → https://wearwagrepeat.com/dog-enrichment-podcast/ Read the show notes for full links, product recs, and citations to all the studies mentioned in this episode. There are 10 episodes in season 1 of this limited series podcast. Hit FOLLOW so you and your pup never miss the latest enrichment ideas! COME SAY HI! Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/tmistick Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/WearWagRepeat/ Pinterest → https://www.pinterest.com/tmistick/ If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave a review 💛 Your feedback helps other devoted dog parents discover the joy of enrichment. *This may contain affiliate links to products I use and love. When you shop with my links I may earn a small commission.

Nov 20

Why does socializing matter so much for your dog’s health, happiness, and longevity? And how can you give your pup enriching social experiences without dealing with dog park drama? In this episode, canine enrichment expert Tori Mistick unpacks what social enrichment really means (hint: it doesn't take place in the dog park!). You’ll learn why quality relationships with people and pups help dogs live longer, how social ties reduce anxiety and fear, and simple ways to boost your dog’s confidence at any age. Tori breaks down the latest research in human-speak, sharing stories from her own dogs Burt and Lucy, and giving you easy ideas to try this week—no dog park required. WHAT’S COVERED IN THIS EPISODE: 01:14 Why social enrichment matters for dogs of all ages 03:02 Stories from raising puppies, rescues, and therapy dogs 05:01 The science: socialization, confidence, and longevity 10:18 Blue Zones & the Dog Aging Project (and what it means for your dog!) 13:00 How social ties fight cognitive decline in senior dogs 14:06 The truth about dog parks (and what to do instead) 17:23 Safer, smarter alternatives for social enrichment 19:39 Four easy ways to boost your dog’s social life this week 21:03 Listener Q&A: Introducing a new dog to a senior pup 23:20 Product Spotlight: Treats + gear for social outings ( linked in my Amazon shop! ) PRODUCTS + RESOURCES IN THIS EPISODE : Treat Pouch and Healthy Treats in my Amazon Shop → https://www.amazon.com/shop/wearwagrepeat Thanks for listening! There are 10 episodes in this limited series. Make sure you hit FOLLOW so your pup doesn’t miss out on all the enrichment fun! Read the show notes for links to my favorite enrichment products, science studies mentioned, and a free guide just for dog parents: http://toriknowsdogs.com/podcast Prefer video or closed captions? Watch all episodes on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@ToriMistick COME SAY HI! Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/tmistick Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/wearwagrepeat TikTok: http://www.tiktok.com/@wearwagrepeat Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/tmistick/ MORE DOG ENRICHMENT RESOURCES: MENTAL ENRICHMENT ACTIVITY PACK: 10 step-by-step brain games you can start today → http://toriknowsdogs.com/podcast Love the show? Please leave a review! It helps more dog parents discover easy, joyful ways to make every day special for their pup.

Nov 13

What really keeps our dogs’ tails wagging and their minds sharp? In this episode, we dive into Environmental Enrichment and uncover why the best dog enrichment activities aren’t always fancy food toys. A 2022 study showed that bacon-scented bubbles and a toddler’s playhouse actually made dogs feel more relaxed than a stuffed Kong! I’ll share all the details of this cool study, break down what “environmental enrichment” really means, and walk you through three fun, easy ways to boost your pup’s happiness this weekend. WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS EPISODE: 00:44 What is environmental enrichment? (Hint: It's everything your dog encounters in their world) 02:46 Why dogs crave novelty and change in their surroundings 05:45 The 2022 study that tested bacon-scented bubbles, playhouses & more 08:46 Why variety (and not just food puzzles) is key for relaxation 10:38 Weekend playhouse idea: Swapping toys with your dog mom friends 12:00 DIY “Pop Up Adventure Park” for instant home fun 14:15 Seasonal snuffle boxes to bring the outdoors in all year round 16:34 Making enrichment actually work: Setting goals for your dog’s play 18:12 Listener Q&A: How to safely start paddleboarding with a water-loving puppy 22:01 Product Spotlight: Favorite agility tunnels & bubble machines for dogs of all ages PRODUCTS MENTIONED: Dog Agility Tunnel Bubble Machine (it comes in blue so your dog can see it well!) Puppy Love Bubbles: Bacon-Scent These are affiliate links to products I use and love. When you support me by clicking or ordering with my links, I may earn a small commission. Thanks for listening—whether you’re out on a walk, relaxing with your pup, or planning your next enrichment activity! Don’t forget to follow the show so you and your dog never miss a new episode. Curious about something I mentioned? You’ll find show notes (with links to my favorite enrichment products and the studies I referenced) at toriknowsdogs.com/podcast Want to watch on YouTube (with closed captions)? You can catch the video version here → https://www.youtube.com/@ToriMistick Read the show notes for links to my favorite enrichment products, the mental enrichment activity pack, and every scientific study I mention: http://toriknowsdogs.com/podcast COME SAY 'HI!' Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/tmistick Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/wearwagrepeat TikTok: http://www.tiktok.com/@wearwagrepeat Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/tmistick/ MORE RESOURCES FOR YOU: MENTAL ENRICHMENT ACTIVITY PACK: 10 step-by-step brain games you can start today → http://toriknowsdogs.com/podcast If you love this episode, please leave a review! It helps get these practical, love-filled ideas out to more dog moms like you.

Nov 5

Did you know your dog can sniff out a single teaspoon of sugar in a whole Olympic-sized pool? In this episode, we dive deep into the incredible world of scent enrichment for dogs and why your dog’s nose is truly their superpower! Join me, Tori Mistick, as we explore how olfactory enrichment can transform your pup’s happiness, confidence, and even your daily walks. Whether you’ve got a hyper doodle or a senior sniffer, this episode is your go-to guide for unlocking the joy and calm that comes with letting your dog’s nose do what it does best. WHAT’S COVERED IN THIS EPISODE: 01:12 Why a dog’s sense of smell is their number one super sense 05:02 What happens in your dog’s brain when they smell your scent (it’s adorable!) 09:52 How nose work games can boost optimism, confidence, and calm 13:35 The “Let Them Sniff” movement and why sniffing is not wasting time 16:05 Narrating your walk for deeper connection and enrichment 18:57 Q&A: Calming a hyperactive Goldendoodle with scent games and mental stimulation 22:54 My favorite scent-based enrichment products, from calming toys to DIY nose work kits 26:14 Easy ideas to get started — scavenger hunts, “sniffari” walks, and more PRODUCTS + RESOURCES IN THIS EPISODE: Huggle Hounds HuggleHug Calming Toy → https://hugglehounds.com/products/hugglehug-lavender-bone-and-calming-spray-set%E2%84%A2 Hide & Scent Nosework Game Kit → https://www.hideandscentpets.com/products/scent-games-for-dogs-hide-and-scent-standard-edition Thanks for listening! There are 10 episodes in this limited series. Make sure you hit FOLLOW so your pup doesn’t miss out on all the enrichment fun! Read the show notes for links to my favorite enrichment products, science studies mentioned, and a free guide just for dog parents: http://toriknowsdogs.com/podcast Prefer video or closed captions? Watch all episodes on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@ToriMistick COME SAY HI! Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/tmistick Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/wearwagrepeat TikTok: http://www.tiktok.com/@wearwagrepeat Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/tmistick/ MORE DOG ENRICHMENT RESOURCES: MENTAL ENRICHMENT ACTIVITY PACK: 10 step-by-step brain games you can start today → http://toriknowsdogs.com/podcast Love the show? Please leave a review! It helps more dog parents discover easy, joyful ways to make every day special for their pup.

Oct 29

Did you know your dog’s sense of hearing is one of their most powerful ways to experience the world? In this episode, we’ll dive deep into how music, voice, and natural sounds shape your dog's emotions, help them relax, and can even strengthen your bond. Host Tori Mistick is a certified canine enrichment technician, lifelong dog mom, and advocate for giving your dog the best life possible. Let’s tap into the magic of sound enrichment (also called auditory enrichment), break down the science, and share practical ideas you can use right away. WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS EPISODE: 01:04 Why dogs’ sense of hearing is a game changer for enrichment 03:45 The science behind calming playlists for dogs 05:36 Real-life results from playing music for anxious pups 07:16 Which music genres work best (hint: it isn’t just classical!) 10:30 Easy sound enrichment ideas beyond music: wind chimes, nature sounds & more 11:57 How your voice and listening routines can ease separation anxiety 13:06 The magic of listening together to build your bond 15:45 Troubleshooting fireworks and storm anxiety 17:48 Sound desensitization vs. sound enrichment—how to help trigger-sensitive dogs 21:44 “Prescription music”: how consistent sonic routines can change your lives 22:51 My favorite sound enrichment playlists and tools for pet parents 23:39 DIY calming soundtracks for your pup 24:18 Why passive enrichment activities matter as much as active ones PRODUCTS + RESOURCES IN THIS EPISODE: Lisa Spector’s Dog Gone Calm Albums → https://canineclassical.com/ My Dog’s Favorite Podcast on Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0STnwcEaUq6mdrs4EKLyux?si=b1af3128e4634633 Ultimate Enrichment Guide + The Mental Enrichment Activity Pack → ⁠http://toriknowsdogs.com/podcast⁠ Read the show notes for full links, product recs, and citations to all the studies mentioned in this episode. New episodes drop every Wednesday! Hit FOLLOW so you and your pup never miss the latest enrichment ideas! COME SAY HI! Instagram → ⁠http://www.instagram.com/tmistick⁠ Facebook → ⁠http://www.facebook.com/wearwagrepeat ⁠Pinterest → ⁠https://www.pinterest.com/tmistick/ ⁠If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave a review 💛 Your feedback helps other devoted dog parents discover the joy of enrichment.

Oct 22

Do you think canine enrichment is just about food puzzles and toys? Think again! In this episode, we’re lighting up your dog’s world... literally! Host Tori Mistick, certified Canine Enrichment Technician, is diving into visual enrichment and sharing practical, science-backed ideas to help build your dog’s brain, their body, and the bond you share. Whether you have a curious puppy or an older dog who can’t get around as much, you’ll discover easy ways to add variety, novelty, and fun to your dog’s day through how they SEE it! WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS EPISODE: 1:12 Why visual enrichment matters—and how it helped Lucy 03:21 The science of movement: Why gentle visuals calm your dog 05:45 What colors dogs see best (hint: think blue and yellow!) 07:44 A neon green vest, a crossing guard, and Lucy’s favorite treat story 09:37 The secret power of “sit and watch the world go by” (even for high-energy pups) 13:44 Simple ways to give your dog choices (and lower their stress) 18:29 Listener Q&A: Best ramps and stairs for senior pups 21:43 Product spotlight: Prisms, disco balls & dog-safe bubbles PRODUCTS + RESOURCES IN THIS EPISODE:⁠ Carlson Pet Products Indoor Ramp⁠ → https://amzn.to/474dZxI Owleys Collapsible Stairs → https://amzn.to/4hGpsHv Hanging Window Prisms → https://rstyle.me/+lbVRYeqXn7WB02Sx_HWVtw Atomic Bubbles Puppy Love → ⁠https://rstyle.me/+o8oDqhW9xqLCvkCyGaF4Hg ⁠Ultimate Enrichment Guide + The Mental Enrichment Activity Pack → ⁠http://toriknowsdogs.com/podcast⁠ Read the show notes for full links, product recs, and citations to all the studies mentioned in this episode. New episodes drop every Wednesday! Hit FOLLOW so you and your pup never miss the latest enrichment ideas! COME SAY HI! Instagram → ⁠http://www.instagram.com/tmistick⁠ Facebook → ⁠http://www.facebook.com/wearwagrepeat⁠ Pinterest → ⁠https://www.pinterest.com/tmistick/ ⁠If you loved this episode, please subscribe and leave a review 💛 Your feedback helps other devoted dog parents discover the joy of enrichment.

Oct 15

Has your dog ever scarfed down a Kong in seconds or looked totally bored at dinnertime? In this episode, Certified Canine Enrichment Technician Tori Mistick shares how food enrichment can be a calming, confidence-boosting, bond-building experience... and not just at dinnertime! Whether you have a picky eater or a food-obsessed pup, you’ll learn simple, science-backed ways to make food more engaging—from the power of deep-jaw chewing to the benefits of giving your dog choices. You’ll also discover easy herbs and toppers you probably already have in your kitchen, plus my favorite slow-feeder bowls (and the one I don’t recommend!). WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS EPISODE: 03:12 Why food enrichment is more than a frozen Kong 05:15 Chewing for calm: how natural chews release feel-good endorphins 08:07 How to choose safe and age-appropriate chews 11:22 The science of variety: keeping dogs excited to eat 14:27 Treat trail mix and fun ways to use up leftover treats 15:33 How giving your dog choices lowers stress and builds confidence 18:10 Simple herbs & kitchen spices to try for health and enrichment 23:52 Listener Q&A: help for picky eaters who only want treats 27:49 Which slow-feeder bowl is best for your dog 32:44 Product spotlight: platter-style feeding and why bigger might be better 33:24 Easy takeaways to upgrade your dog’s mealtime today PRODUCTS + RESOURCES IN THIS EPISODE: Mine Pet Platter Only Natural Pet Sunup Eco Slow-Feeder Soda Pup Great Outdoors eBowl Ultimate Enrichment Guide + The Mental Enrichment Activity Pack → http://toriknowsdogs.com/podcast Read the show notes for full links, product recs, and citations to all the studies mentioned in this episode. New episodes drop every Wednesday! Hit FOLLOW so you and your pup never miss the latest enrichment ideas! COME SAY HI! Instagram → http://www.instagram.com/tmistick Facebook → http://www.facebook.com/wearwagrepeat Pinterest → https://www.pinterest.com/tmistick/ If you loved this episode, please leave a review 💛 Your feedback helps other devoted dog parents discover the joy of enrichment.