Chew, Choose, Connect: Food Enrichment Is the Key to a Happier Dog
Description
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.
New episodes drop every Wednesday! Hit FOLLOW so you and your pup never miss the latest enrichment ideas!
COME SAY HI!
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