A snuffle mat is an enrichment toy that encourages your dog to sniff and search out hidden treats amongst the strands of the mat.
Make your own snuffle mat uk.
Tie your strips to onto your mat in a single knot like you would when tying a shoelace.
I bought the sink mat and fleece fabric from an ebay shop the cost was 3 49 for the mat and 4 99 for the fleece per metre.
How to make the snuffle mats.
Introducing your snuffle mat to your dog.
Cut your fleece blankets into strips using scissors.
First cut a large rectangle from your t shirt or jumper.
Our coaches at dogs trust dog school recommend using these tactile creations to keep dogs content and occupied.
In fact you can make your own snuffle mat in just a couple of steps.
After all they re only rag rugs nothing fancy.
You will need about 1 metre of fleece per mat or 2 x 0 5m of two different colours.
Making the snuffle mat.
Here s my attempt at making one for genie.
The first time you give a snuffle mat to your dog place the treats kibble on top then progressively make it harder by burying the treats kibble further into the snuffle mat so that they really have to use their noses and snuffle to find the goodies.
Snuffle mats retail online for about 20 30 so i decided it s got to be cheaper to make your own.
No need to double knot it.
I bought 2 mats and two metres of two different colours.
To make a homemade dog snuffle mat you will need.
Get your dog s favourite dry treats and place a couple on the top of the fabric letting your dog sniff and take them.
Flip the rubber mat over and tie the strips once.
An old t shirt and or jumper a jumper or polo shirt is best as some t shirts can be a little too stretchy a pair of scissors.
Good luck and enjoy getting creative.
Cutting these at different widths and lengths will make the snuffle mat a bit more of a challenge for your dog.
This made two mats so cost 8 48 per mat.
Gather the necessary materials.
For this project you ll need.
One fairly solid rubber door mat with lots of holes in.
At least a yard of fleece depending on the size of your pup a rubber sink or anti fatigue mat basically any mat that has equidistant holes large enough for fleece strips to go through.
Start by placing your snuffle mat on the floor and letting your dog have a sniff and explore.
A sink mat will be fine though.
Dogs are social intelligent and active animals so it is important to provide them with safe and suitable opportunities to exercise their bodies and minds.