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:
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.
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COME SAY HI!
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