Mentally stimulating your dog with enrichment activities is a great way to keep them happy, healthy, and engaged. Snuffle mats are the perfect way for them to use their brains, and incredible noses. Nosework engages their natural instinct and desire to hunt.
Snuffling through the mat is like solving a puzzle, and being rewarded with a tasty treat. It keeps all pets entertained and helps tire them mentally.
Busy? Get Your Hands Paws On The Answers Quickly…
- Benefits Of Using A Snuffle Mat
- How To Make A Snuffle Mat
- Quick Video On How To Make A Snuffle Mat
- Printable PDF Guide
BENEFITS OF USING A SNUFFLE MAT
- Helps slow down speedy eaters (fill it with dinner so they can snuffle for it)
- Keeps pets entertained
- Mentally stimulating and exhausting
Snuffle mats can be expensive to buy! Our DIY came in at under $15 and was so easy to make.
Equipment:
- Rubber mat (can be a sink drainer, shower mat, or outdoor mat as long as it has holes) – we used a 27×16 inch (70x40cm) door mat
- Blanket or fleece – we used 80×120 inches (2x3m) blanket
- Sharp scissors
Directions:
| 1. Once you have gathered your equipment, begin by cutting the blanket into 2×12 inch strips. Don’t worry if it’s not super accurate. Different lengths work well for snufflin’. | ||
| 2. Turn the mat upside down. Thread a strip of the blanket through so the ends are on the top side of the mat. | ||
| 3. Tie a single knot with the two ends. | ||
| 4. Continue until the entire row is complete. | ||
| 5. Complete the mat lengthways. This can be time consuming, so I tend to make the mats in front of the TV. *If your mat is looking sparse, repeat the threading widthways.* | ||
| 6. Sprinkle with kibble or dinner. | ||
| 7. Snuffle! | ||
QUICK VIDEO ON HOW TO MAKE A SNUFFLE MAT
Disclaimer: Always supervise your dog when using enrichment toys.
Not ready to make the snuffle mat? Looking to share the instructions with friends?
Print the guide here and save and share!
Looking for more pawsome posts? Check these out…
Can Dogs Eat Lettuce?
Can Dogs Look Up?
When Do Puppies Lose Their Teeth?
Can Dogs Eat Broccoli?
Can Dogs Eat Watermelon?
Disclaimer: Each dog is different, and every circumstance is different. All efforts have been made to provide accurate information. However, it is not provided by a qualified Veterinarian, Veterinarian Surgeon, or Behaviorist. The information provided is purely educational. The information should not be used as an alternative or substitute for medical care. If you have any health or medical concerns, contact a qualified Veterinary Surgeon or Veterinarian immediately.
Other Articles
Why Do Dogs Eat Grass? Should You Let Them?
Why Do Dogs Chew Their Feet? 11 Reasons For Chewing Paws
No Comment! Be the first one.