33% Lower Dementia Risk: Physical Enrichment To Keep Your Dog Young

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.