Chew, Choose, Connect: Food Enrichment Is the Key to a Happier Dog

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.