What's all the hype with Snuffle mats? They provide fun and excitement for dogs of all ages and breeds!
What is a Snuffle Mat?
A snuffle mat is a mat with loose pieces of fabric that come in different styles. They are designed in a way where you can hide dog treats, and it encourages your dog to use their nose to sniff through the fabric to find them and engage their strong sense of smell.
THE BENEFITS!
1. Mental Stimulation
Dogs are natural hunters with great noses! They love the challenge of any puzzle. Dogs need a good outlet for their minds and energy; otherwise, they can become bored or sad. Boredom can lead to destructive behaviour, and sadness can lead to depression.Â
Snuffle mats are great because they provide a challenge that stimulates their minds and senses - that's fun for them!
2. Foraging
Dogs are also natural foragers! A snuffle mat allows your dog to use their sense of smell in search of food. Dogs are motivated by enticing scents, and a snuffle mat is a toy that can keep them engaged.
3. CalmingÂ
If your dog has a lot of energy, a snuffle mat is an effective way to distract them and may help them calm down. Did you know that apparently, 15 minutes of sniffing can burn as many calories for your dog as a steady one-hour walk?Â
Searching for food can help your dog focus and relax, and it is something your dog can use independently indoors.
4. Helps Fast Eaters
If your dog eats fast, the snuffle mat can act as a feeding mat and force a dog to look for the pieces of food, slowing down their eating time. Conversely, eating slower will prevent gastrointestinal issues and help your dog better digest their food.
Of course, the material snuffle mats are only compatible with dry foods like kibble and dry treats, but there are also bowls specially designed to slow down fast eaters, similar to the snuffle mat.
How to Use A Snuffle Mat
Snuffle mats are easy to use for you and your dog! You'll need to hide food/treats between the pieces of material for your dog and set it down on the floor for them. Encourage your dog to sniff to find the treats instead of digging at the mat or trying to lift them.Â
Over time, your dog will learn that the snuffle mat means it's time for fooooood, and they will be excited to use it!
Ideas for Foods inside Snuffle Mats
dry treats like Riley's organic bones, dehydrated meat, etc
good quality kibble
chunks of apple or carrot
Cleaning a snuffle mat
Shake out the mat over a trash can for any bits of crumbs left behind
Usually, snuffle mats can be machine washed and dried to keep them fresh!Â
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