When introducing puppy to sniffing games, the right treats can turn a distracted pup into a focused learner.
Puppies explore the world with their noses, and a well-chosen reward encourages curiosity, patience, and problem-solving.
Most new pet parents underestimate how much the scent and texture of a treat can impact learning.
In this guide, you’ll discover which treats work best and how to use them for safe, fun enrichment.
If you’re also starting scent training, read the companion guide steps to teach puppy to find it with a snuffle mat to help your pup master the basics of nose work.
Key Takeaways
Soft, aromatic treats encourage puppies to use their noses.
Avoid greasy or crumbly snacks that can clog enrichment mats.
Keep portions small — under 10% of daily calories.
Single-ingredient or homemade options are healthiest for young pups.
Why the Best Treats to Use When Introducing a Puppy to Sniffing Games Matter
Puppies don’t just eat treats — they investigate them. A strong scent motivates your puppy to search, stay focused, and build confidence. According to the AKC on dog training treats, smell-based rewards improve memory and engagement during early training.
Scent is a puppy’s language.When you pair scent with reward, learning becomes a natural extension of curiosity.
The VCA Animal Hospitals guidance on treats recommends keeping treats under 10% of daily calories. Healthy options like salmon, chicken, or pumpkin keep energy up without overwhelming a developing digestive system.
The 4 Best Types of Treats for Puppy Sniffing Games
| Type | Example | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Soft Training Treats | Freeze-dried chicken, turkey bites | Easy to chew and highly scented |
| Single-Ingredient Treats | Salmon cubes, liver bits | Strong aroma stimulates foraging instincts |
| Homemade Treats | Boiled chicken, mashed pumpkin | Gentle on sensitive puppy stomachs |
| Kibble as Reward | Regular puppy food | Keeps calories balanced for daily use |
Small, moist, bite-sized pieces release more scent and let you reinforce behavior quickly. Larger, crumbly biscuits can distract from the training goal. When you’re ready to hide rewards in an enrichment toy, choose a washable, durable best snuffle mat for puppy to keep sessions clean and safe.
How to Introduce Treats in Sniffing Games (3 Easy Steps)
Step 1: Start Simple and Visible.
Place a few treats on top of a towel or mat where your puppy can easily find them. Reward every attempt with gentle praise.
Step 2: Hide Treats Gradually.
As your puppy gains confidence, hide the treats deeper and say “Find it!” before they start sniffing to create a verbal association.
Step 3: Mix Treats with Mealtime.
Swap part of their regular kibble for these treats during feeding. This adds variety and keeps the calorie count under control. For session timing, see how long should snuffle mat sessions for a puppy be so you can plan short, effective playtimes.
The 3 Most Common Mistakes Puppy Owners Make
Mistake 1: Overfeeding Rich Treats
Too many treats can upset digestion. Limit rewards to a few pieces per session and substitute some kibble to stay within daily calories.
Mistake 2: Choosing Low-Value Rewards
If your puppy loses interest quickly, the treats may not be smelly enough. Switch to higher-value options like liver or salmon to hold their focus.
Mistake 3: Ignoring Allergies
Read ingredient labels carefully. Avoid artificial colors and fillers, which can cause skin irritation or tummy trouble. Learn more at PetMD: food allergies in dogs.
Two DIY Healthy Puppy Treat Recipes for Sniffing Games
Recipe 1: Pumpkin & Oat Mini Bites
½ cup pure pumpkin puree, 1 cup rolled oats, 1 egg. Mix, roll into tiny balls, bake at 325°F (163°C) for ~15 minutes. Refrigerate up to one week.
Recipe 2: Chicken & Sweet Potato Cubes
½ cup boiled shredded chicken, ¼ cup mashed sweet potato, 1 tbsp oat flour. Combine, form tiny cubes, bake at 300°F (149°C) for ~10 minutes. Great for short training bursts.
7. FAQ – Puppy Treats for Sniffing Games
How many treats should I use per session?
Keep total treat calories under 10% of daily intake. If you’re using enrichment mats, mix in kibble to keep portions balanced.
Can I use kibble instead of treats?
Yes — especially during daily sniffing sessions. Add a few high-value treats to boost interest and maintain motivation.
Are human foods safe?
Plain, cooked chicken, pumpkin, or carrots are fine. Avoid onions, garlic, spicy foods, and anything seasoned or sweetened (no xylitol).
Can I use treats outdoors?
Absolutely. Choose high-scent, non-crumbly options that won’t fall apart in grass or wind.
8. Final Thoughts
Finding the best treats to use when introducing a puppy to sniffing games is about choosing rewards that are both healthy and exciting. Small, aromatic pieces motivate your puppy and strengthen focus and patience through scent-driven play.
Pair these rewards with your nose-work routine and a quality mat for irresistible enrichment. When you’re ready to start, a soft, washable snuffle mat for puppy makes every “find it” game a joyful discovery.
Sources & Expert References
- AKC – Dog Training Treats
- VCA Animal Hospitals – Feeding Treats to Dogs
- PetMD – Food Allergies in Dogs