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.

Can a thinking dog be a happier dog? In this episode, we’re exploring the incredible impact that mental enrichment and brain games can have on your dog’s life.

Certified Canine Enrichment Technician, Tori Mistick, shares easy, effective ways to keep your pup’s mind buzzing, from simple trick bursts to clever puzzle remixes. We’ll unpack real-life stories about how dogs of any age (even seniors!) can build confidence, curb anxiety, and stay sharp, using just a few minutes of fun every day.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS EPISODE:

01:40 The difference between a tired dog and a happy, thinking dog
03:10 How mental challenges helped my anxious rescue dog, Burt
06:18 Study 1: Why quick training moments build resilience (and boost puzzle-solving skills)
08:07 Study 2: Neuroplasticity in dogs—why short, varied brain games work wonders
13:31 Study 3: Yes, old dogs CAN learn new tricks! Enrichment for seniors
16:15 The story of Chaser, the world’s smartest dog, and teaching “fetch by name”
20:07 Do those talking dog buttons really work? What the latest research says
24:05 Simple, actionable mental enrichment ideas for all dogs
28:54 Q&A: Should you outsource enrichment to daycare?
29:36 Low- to no-cost ways to enrich your dog’s life (hello, busy box!)
31:17 Product spotlights: My favorite puzzles and brain-boosting resources

MORE RESOURCES FOR YOU:

MENTAL ENRICHMENT ACTIVITY PACK: 10 step-by-step brain games you can start today → ⁠toriknowsdogs.com/podcast⁠

Book: “How Stella Learned to Talk” by Christina Hunger https://amzn.to/48TivjD

Toy: Nina Ottosson Tornado Puzzle https://amzn.to/4nHAK0a

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review or share it with your dog-loving friends! Your support helps keep this show going and brings practical, joyful dog advice to even more pup parents.

Thanks so much for tuning in! Brand new episodes drop every week—hit that follow button so you and your pup never miss out on the fun and all my best enrichment tips.

Read the show notes for links to my favorite enrichment products, the mental enrichment activity pack, and the five scientific reports I mention: toriknowsdogs.com/podcast

If you prefer video or want closed captions, you can catch every episode on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@ToriMistick

COME SAY 'HI!'

Instagram: ⁠http://www.instagram.com/wearwagrepeat⁠Facebook: ⁠http://www.facebook.com/wearwagrepeat⁠TikTok: ⁠http://www.tiktok.com/@wearwagrepeat⁠Pinterest: ⁠https://www.pinterest.com/wearwagrepeat/⁠

What if just 10 minutes a day could help your dog feel calmer, happier, and more connected to you? In this very first episode of Dog Enrichment with Tori Mistick, I’m breaking down everything you need to know about dog enrichment—what it is, why it matters, and how a few simple activities can transform your dog’s day (and yours!).

I share how I discovered the world of enrichment, the science-backed benefits for your pup, and easy ways to get started without spending tons of money or time. Plus, I’ll walk you through my favorite at-home enrichment ideas you can try tonight, and answer common myths holding pet parents back from giving their dogs the best life possible.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS EPISODE:

01:20 My journey from dog lover to certified canine enrichment technician

03:00 The real meaning of enrichment (hint: letting dogs do dog things!)

05:00 How enrichment can help with anxiety, boredom, destructive behaviors, and even self-confidence

08:15 The 8 categories of enrichment every pet parent should know

14:00 Easy enrichment ideas you can do right now: muffin tin puzzle, treat towel burrito, toy rotation & more

17:45 How to bust the myth that enrichment is too hard, expensive, or time consuming

18:15 How to get your questions answered on a future episode

Thank you so much for joining me for episode one! New episodes drop every Wednesday, each diving deep into a new enrichment category with practical, quick ideas backed by real science. Hit the follow button so your pup doesn’t miss out!

SHOW NOTES & MORE:

Links, recommended enrichment products, and sources mentioned in this episode: http://toriknowsdogs.com/podcast

Prefer video or need closed captions? Watch the full episodes on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@ToriMistick

COME SAY 'HI!'
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/tmistick
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/wearwagrepeat
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/tmistick

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review! Your feedback helps more dog lovers discover easy enrichment tips for their pups.

Welcome to Dog Enrichment with Tori Mistick. This is where science meets everyday life with your dog. I’m a certified canine enrichment technician, lifelong dog lover and professional pet blogger who takes the research and turns it into simple, fun things you can actually do. No jargon. No expensive gear. Just practical tips that help you raise a calmer, happier, more confident dog.

Season 1 kicks off October 1, 2025 - subscribe now!

Each episode of Season 1 is a deep dive into one of the 8 categories of enrichment. You’ll learn easy ways to work them into your daily routine, hear stories from my own life with dogs and see how small changes can make a big difference!