April showers bring May flowers, right? More rain means a little less time outside. I wanted to create this DIY Snuffle Mat so the dogs could have an enriching activity during the rainy season.
Have you heard of a snuffle mat before? I didn’t have much experience with them until Luna’s experience with IVDD. While she was on extended crate rest, I had to find enrichment activities to keep her mind engaged and something that provided light exercise. This DIY Snuffle Mat for dogs is perfect for any dog and any reason!
There are different variations of DIY Snuffle Mat for Dogs if you do a quick Google search. However, I love this option that uses a sink mat with fleece because it means the mat can be easily cleaned! There are great options to create Snuffle Mats with cardboard too.
*This blog may contain affiliate links that allow me to make a small commission if you make a purchase by clicking the links – including Amazon. This is at no additional cost to you and any money I may receive is put right back into this blog. Thank you all so much for your support! As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
*Always consult with your vet before introducing new foods to your dog. Be mindful of food sensitivities and introduce new foods slowly. This recipe is simply just a treat for your dog and not meant to replace a full balanced meal or diet.
Is it easy to make this DIY Snuffle Mat for Dogs?
Yes, this is a simple project! This project was a little time-consuming, but it was a great project to work on in the evening while watching TV. It was affordable too. I believe I purchased four sink mats for under $10 and had a coupon for my local fabric store to buy the fleece. You can also find everything you need on Amazon.
My best tip is to use a rotary cutter when cutting the strips. I used regular scissors to make four snuffle mats, but having a rotary cutter would have saved me a lot of hand-cramping!
What is the purpose of a snuffle mat?
The purpose of a snuffle mat is to create an engaging enrichment activity for your dog. Snuffle mats are great to use at any time! I work from home, so if I notice the dogs are bored, I can throw some treats into their snuffle mat, and they have a great scent activity to keep them busy.
Endorphins are released when your dog practices their scent work with a snuffle mat. A snuffle mat can be considered an enrichment puzzle, and it can ease anxiety and soothe your dog. That sounds pretty great, right?!
What will I need to make this DIY Snuffle Mat for Dogs?
- Scissors or a Rotary Cutter
- A cutting mat if using a rotary cutter
- A couple of yards of fleece. I used six yards to make four snuffle mats and even had a little bit of fleece left over. If you’re only making one mat, I would purchase two yards of fleece in your chosen color. You will likely have some leftover but it at least leaves a little room for error. You can even buy small fleece blankets to use.
- Rubber sink mats. They can have square or circular holes – both styles will create a beautiful snuffle mat.
- Measuring tape
How do I make this Snuffle Mat for Dogs?
- Cut your fleece first and get that task out of the way. Try folding your yard of fleece over, so that you can cut more strips at one time. Your fleece strips should be 7 inches in length and 1 inch in width. Don’t worry about the strips being perfect! You can always trim them once the snuffle mat is complete, and your dog will not care if the strips are uneven.
- Now you’ll begin tying your strips into your snuffle mat. There will technically be four strips in each square (or circle) of your sink mat. You can alternate colors or create whatever style you want! I tied the entire perimeter of my sink mat first, and then I alternated and filled each row one by one with my fleece strips. One knot is enough to secure the fleece. I don’t suggest double knotting the fleece as it can make the snuffle mat too bulky. That’s it! Just fill your mat with fleece strips.
- Now toss some small treats into your snuffle mat and let your dog practice their scent work! You can break up any style of treats into the snuffle mat, but training treats are also the perfect size for this activity too.
- Is your snuffle mat dirty or stinky after a few uses? Just throw it in the washer on the gentle cycle with a gentle detergent.
I hope you love this DIY dog mom project and more importantly I hope your dog loves their new snuffle mat! If you don’t have time for this DIY project there are plenty of excellent snuffle mats you can purchase online too! I would love to see the snuffle mats you create. Tag me on Instagram @peace_love_frenchies and I will reshare your creation!
*This blog may contain affiliate links that allow me to make a small commission if you make a purchase by clicking the links – including Amazon. This is at no additional cost to you and any money I may receive is put right back into this blog. Thank you all so much for your support! As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
*Always consult with your vet before introducing new foods to your dog. Be mindful of food sensitivities and introduce new foods slowly. This recipe is simply just a treat for your dog and not meant to replace a full balanced meal or diet.
More from Peace, Love, and Frenchie Farts
