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 young08:31 Why repetitive walks increase injury risk (according to canine sports medicine)09:10 DIY “surface circus” ideas for indoor enrichment10:15 The surprising science behind canine massage and touch13:08 Recap: the 3 pillars of physical enrichment14:44 Listener Q&A: calming a wild pup stuck inside during bad weather16:12 Indoor enrichment activities, balance work, and relaxing music18:36 Product Spotlight: two treat-dispensing toys perfect for mealtime movementPRODUCTS + RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEHide & Scent Scent Work Kit → https://www.hideandscentpets.com/ohpsyw 15% off with code: ENRICHMENTWITHTORICaitlin’s Canine Fitness YouTube Playlist → https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwtmSP2gftSplgaBFviywMbSwPie4tPNF&si=9kGWGnuwOK8jSWhsOutward Hound Food-Dispensing Ball → https://amzn.to/4pABGnMSnowman-Style Treat Ball → https://amzn.to/3JXmAcNThanks 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/tmistickFacebook → 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.
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The Dog Blue Zone: Smarter Social Enrichment for a Longer Life
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 ages03:02 Stories from raising puppies, rescues, and therapy dogs05:01 The science: socialization, confidence, and longevity10:18 Blue Zones & the Dog Aging Project (and what it means for your dog!)13:00 How social ties fight cognitive decline in senior dogs14:06 The truth about dog parks (and what to do instead)17:23 Safer, smarter alternatives for social enrichment19:39 Four easy ways to boost your dog’s social life this week21:03 Listener Q&A: Introducing a new dog to a senior pup23:20 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/wearwagrepeatThanks 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/podcastPrefer video or closed captions? Watch all episodes on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@ToriMistickCOME SAY HI!Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/tmistickFacebook: http://www.facebook.com/wearwagrepeatTikTok: http://www.tiktok.com/@wearwagrepeatPinterest: 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/podcastLove the show? Please leave a review! It helps more dog parents discover easy, joyful ways to make every day special for their pup.
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The Environmental Enrichment Your Dog Is Missing
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 agesPRODUCTS MENTIONED:Dog Agility TunnelBubble Machine (it comes in blue so your dog can see it well!)Puppy Love Bubbles: Bacon-ScentThese 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/podcastWant to watch on YouTube (with closed captions)? You can catch the video version here → https://www.youtube.com/@ToriMistickRead the show notes for links to my favorite enrichment products, the mental enrichment activity pack, and every scientific study I mention: http://toriknowsdogs.com/podcastCOME SAY 'HI!' Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/tmistickFacebook: http://www.facebook.com/wearwagrepeatTikTok: http://www.tiktok.com/@wearwagrepeatPinterest: 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/podcastIf you love this episode, please leave a review! It helps get these practical, love-filled ideas out to more dog moms like you.
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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 sense05:02 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 calm13:35 The “Let Them Sniff” movement and why sniffing is not wasting time16:05 Narrating your walk for deeper connection and enrichment18:57 Q&A: Calming a hyperactive Goldendoodle with scent games and mental stimulation22:54 My favorite scent-based enrichment products, from calming toys to DIY nose work kits26:14 Easy ideas to get started — scavenger hunts, “sniffari” walks, and morePRODUCTS + RESOURCES IN THIS EPISODE:Huggle Hounds HuggleHug Calming Toy → https://hugglehounds.com/products/hugglehug-lavender-bone-and-calming-spray-set%E2%84%A2Hide & 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/podcastPrefer video or closed captions? Watch all episodes on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@ToriMistickCOME SAY HI! Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/tmistickFacebook: http://www.facebook.com/wearwagrepeatTikTok: http://www.tiktok.com/@wearwagrepeatPinterest: 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/podcastLove the show? Please leave a review! It helps more dog parents discover easy, joyful ways to make every day special for their pup.
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Sound Enrichment for Dogs: Scientifically Proven Calming Music + More
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 enrichment03:45 The science behind calming playlists for dogs05:36 Real-life results from playing music for anxious pups07:16 Which music genres work best (hint: it isn’t just classical!)10:30 Easy sound enrichment ideas beyond music: wind chimes, nature sounds & more11:57 How your voice and listening routines can ease separation anxiety13:06 The magic of listening together to build your bond15:45 Troubleshooting fireworks and storm anxiety17:48 Sound desensitization vs. sound enrichment—how to help trigger-sensitive dogs21:44 “Prescription music”: how consistent sonic routines can change your lives22:51 My favorite sound enrichment playlists and tools for pet parents23:39 DIY calming soundtracks for your pup24:18 Why passive enrichment activities matter as much as active onesPRODUCTS + 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=b1af3128e4634633Ultimate Enrichment Guide + The Mental Enrichment Activity Pack → http://toriknowsdogs.com/podcastRead 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/tmistickFacebook → http://www.facebook.com/wearwagrepeatPinterest → 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.
Worried your dog is bored? You’re not alone. 52% of pet parents say boredom or loneliness tops their worry list. On Dog Enrichment with Tori Mistick, you’ll discover fun, science-backed ideas you can try at home to spark curiosity, engagement, and a deeper bond with your dog. Hosted by a certified canine enrichment specialist with over 20 years of hands-on experience, each episode is practical, playful, and pure joy.
South Africa