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
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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
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