To Your Dog, You Smell Like Love: The Science of Scent Enrichment

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.