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! 🐾💛

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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/wearwagrepeatPinterest → 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.