Are you looking for the best snuffle mats for your dog?
In this article, we will walk you through some great choices so you can pick the one that fits your pup’s needs.
We pulled everything together in one bookmarkable guide. Read on to find the right mat for your dog.
Wondering: "what is a snuffle mat for a dog"? Read our guide
1. Sunflowerz Snuffle Mat – Best for Large Dogs
This bright sunflower-themed mat turns mealtime and treat time into a fun foraging game. Designed with layered polar fleece petals and a roomy central pocket, it gives pets plenty of spots to sniff and search.
It works as a slow feeder, a boredom buster, and a calming activity for anxious pets. Strong enough for big dogs yet soft enough for cats, rabbits, and small pets, it’s a versatile pick for homes with more than one animal.
Size: About 19" in diameter
Material: Soft, durable, non-toxic polar fleece
Cleaning: Machine washable (gentle cycle). Air dry recommended
Why we like it:
- Multiple hiding pockets that encourage natural foraging
- Anti-slip base keeps the mat steady
- Helps slow down fast eaters
- Great for dogs, cats, rabbits, and multi-pet homes
- Offers both mental stimulation and stress relief
Things to consider:
- Large treats may be easier to spot in shallow pockets
- Pets that chew fabric may need supervision
- Works best on hard floors or low-pile rugs for grip
2. PAW5 Wooly Snuffle Mat – Best for Strong Foragers
This popular mat’s thick, grassy texture offers a deeper challenge than many basic fleece mats. Larger breeds and high-energy sniffers tend to enjoy the longer fibers because they have to work harder to uncover food. It folds up easily and can be tossed straight into the wash.
Size: Approx. 12" × 18"
Material: Thick shaggy fleece
Cleaning: Machine washable
Why we like it:
- Dense fleece creates longer sniffing sessions
- Great size and texture for bigger dogs
- Easy to pack away
- Durable enough for daily use
Things to consider:
- Fibers can trap crumbs if not shaken out
- Dogs who tear fabric may damage it
3. Dexypaws Enrichment Snuffle Mat – Best Silicone Snuffle Mat for Dogs
For pups that make a mess or owners who want the easiest cleanup possible, this silicone version is a standout. It keeps its shape, doesn’t trap odors, and can handle everything from kibble to wet food. It’s simple and straightforward but still provides enough challenge to slow down eating.
Size: ~9" × 9"
Material: Food-grade silicone
Cleaning: Rinse or wash with soap
Why we like it:
- Very durable compared to fabric mats
- Great for messy or wet-food eaters
- Low-maintenance cleaning
- Suitable for all dog sizes
Things to consider:
- Smaller footprint than most fleece mats
- Dogs who prefer fluffy textures may not engage as much
- Not designed for deep-pocket foraging
4. Pet Parents Forager Snuffle Mat – Best for Daily Feeding
This mat offers a good balance of size, durability, and foraging complexity, which makes it great for everyday use. Its layered fleece encourages steady sniffing, and the layout gives larger dogs more space to explore. It also stays put better than many budget-friendly mats.
Size: 12" × 18" or 19" × 21"
Material: Multi-layer fleece
Cleaning: Machine washable
Why we like it:
- Deeper fleece layers help slow eating
- Ideal for regular use with medium to large dogs
- Rolls up easily for travel
- Gentle on sensitive noses
Things to consider:
- Not best for chewers
- Needs regular shaking or brushing out
- Slightly bulkier to store
5. Awoof Pet Snuffle Mat Large – Best for Multi-Dog Homes
This oversized mat gives plenty of space for larger breeds or even two dogs to share. Its pockets and folds encourage dogs to explore more thoroughly, and the wide layout slows fast eaters without crowding them.
Size: 34.6" × 19.6"
Material: Oxford cloth & cotton
Cleaning: Machine washable
Why we like it:
- Big enough for large breeds or multiple dogs
- Lots of hiding spots for extended foraging
- Folds easily for storage
- Designed to reduce gulping at mealtime
Things to consider:
- Takes more floor space
- Skilled sniffers may finish faster
6. TRIXIE Strategy Game Snuffle Mat – Best for Structured Foraging
This mat introduces a bit more shape and order with its mix of tassels and pockets. The removable tray underneath keeps the mat from bunching up, making it great for dogs who push their mats around. It’s also helpful for dogs learning to slow down during meals.
Size: 13.4" × 18.9" × 2.8"
Material: Polyester
Cleaning: Machine washable (remove tray first)
Why we like it:
- Multiple textures keep dogs interested
- Tray helps it stay flat and stable
- Good for dogs that need guided foraging
Things to consider:
- Experienced sniffers may solve it quickly
- Smaller than other mats on this list
7. Pet Arena Adjustable Snuffle Mat – Best for Dogs Who Get Bored Easily
This mat’s adjustable sections let you change up the challenge, which helps keep things fresh for dogs that get used to puzzles quickly. With lots of fleece strips and hiding spots, you can make it simple one day and more advanced the next.
Size: 28" × 28"
Material: Anti-pilling polar fleece
Cleaning: Machine washable
Why we like it:
- Adjustable layout for varied difficulty
- Plenty of pockets for sniffing
- Non-slip base keeps it in place
Things to consider:
- Requires a bit of setup
- Can take up more space when unfolded
8. Sniffiz SmellyMatty Snuffle Mat – Best for Advanced Puzzlers
If your dog flies through simple mats, this one ramps up the challenge. With layered pockets, flower-shaped sections, and deep fleece folds, it keeps clever dogs focused for longer sessions. It’s also a good option for large dogs that need a bigger working area.
Size: 32" × 32"
Material: Canvas + soft polar fleece
Cleaning: Machine washable
Why we like it:
- Multiple textures for deeper puzzles
- Dense material encourages longer sniffing
- Anti-slip bottom keeps things steady
Things to consider:
- Higher price than basic mats
- Too complex for beginners
- Not ideal for chewers
9. ZippyPaws Snufflerz Burrito Snuffle Mat – Best Travel-Friendly Pick
This playful burrito-style snuffle toy adds novelty to enrichment time. You can tuck treats in the folds, roll it loosely for easy searches, or make it harder by tightening the wrap. It’s compact, soft, and perfect for dogs who enjoy quirky designs.
Size: 12" × 5.5"
Material: Polyester
Cleaning: Spot or wipe clean (machine washable depending on model)
Why we like it:
- Unique roll-up design
- Easy to bring on trips
- Soft on sensitive noses
Things to consider:
- Smaller than traditional mats
- May slide around with light dogs
- Plush design isn’t ideal for chewers
10. Frisco Pizza Snuffle Mat – Best for Small Dogs
Shaped like a pizza with reversible slices, this mat gives small dogs lots of variety without overwhelming them. Each slice includes different textures and pockets to keep things interesting, and the mat is flexible enough for daily enrichment.
Size: 20" × 20"
Material: Pet-safe polyester fleece
Cleaning: Machine washable
Why we like it:
- Multiple layers and “toppings” to explore
- Lightweight and soft
- Great for slowing down eating
Things to consider:
- Too small for large breeds
- Can shift around on smooth floors
- Plush pieces may wear out with heavy chewing
The snuffle mat you choose can shape your dog’s daily enrichment and overall engagement. We’ve highlighted excellent options for everything from small companions to large breeds, as well as messy eaters, enthusiastic sniffers, and multi-dog homes. With so many strong picks, you can select one that truly matches your dog’s style.
Which one do you see your dog enjoying the most?
FAQs
1. What does a snuffle mat do for dogs?
A snuffle mat encourages dogs to use their natural foraging skills by hiding kibble or treats within the fabric. This mental enrichment helps reduce boredom, supports calmer behavior, and adds a healthy challenge to mealtime.
2. Can a snuffle mat help slow down fast eaters?
Yes. Snuffle mats are great for dogs that gobble their food. Since they have to search for each piece, they naturally slow down, which can help reduce bloating and upset stomachs.
3. How do I choose the right snuffle mat size?
Smaller mats work well for puppies and small breeds. Bigger dogs usually do better with wider mats that give them more room to sniff around. Multi-dog households may also prefer a larger layout.
4. Are snuffle mats okay for dogs that chew a lot?
If your dog is a heavy chewer, a silicone or reinforced snuffle mat is usually a safer choice. Fleece mats can be tempting to pull apart, so it’s best to supervise at first and see how your dog handles it.
5. How often can I use a snuffle mat?
You can use a snuffle mat every day if you want. Many people use it for one of their dog’s meals or as a quick enrichment activity when their dog needs something to do.