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What to Know About Snuffle Mats
Snuffle mats provide dogs with enrichment by making them work for their food and treats. Some simply feature densely packed materials or leaves of fabric between which you can hide treats. Others are more elaborate with various pockets, flaps, and other treat-hiding areas. Whatever their design, these mats stimulate dogs' brains to keep them from getting bored or eating their food too quickly.
Materials
The base of a snuffle mat is usually made from Oxford cloth or another similarly durable fabric. The underside may have rubber or silicone non-slip padding. The parts of the mat that dogs search through are often made from polar fleece, as it's soft and quick-drying.
Engagement
Snuffle mats provide much-needed engagement for dogs when toys alone don't cut it. The act of searching for treats in a mat provides mental stimulation for dogs to stave off boredom and can even act as physical movement with the more challenging options. Many owners will load up a mat before leaving the house to keep their dogs distracted and reduce their anxiety.
What to Put in Snuffle Mats
You can put treats or dry dog food in a snuffle mat. Some people choose to feed their dog's whole kibble meal using one to make sure they take their time while eating. You could also hide dog-safe human food within the folds, so long as they do not make a wet, sticky mess.
You shouldn't leave dogs alone with snuffle mats because they might tear off the loose parts and swallow them. Even if you're fairly sure your dog wouldn't do this, it's not worth risking an emergency surgery over.
Start by placing a few high-value treats visible on the surface of the mat and direct your dog's attention to them. Your dog will soon head over to the mat and eat them. Then let them watch while you hide treats in the mat—most dogs will root around for treats right away.
There's no set frequency for snuffle mat use, but as long as they don't start getting bored of it or aren't challenged enough, your dog can use one as often as once or twice a day to prevent overfeeding.
