If you’ve ever wondered how to teach your puppy to find it with a snuffle mat, you’re in the right place.
This fun scent-training game builds patience, focus, and problem-solving while keeping young dogs calm and entertained.
Before starting, check our guide on How to introduce a snuffle mat to a puppy to ensure your pup feels confident.
For best results, use the right motivators—see Best treats to use when introducing a puppy to sniffing games—and choose a soft, washable snuffle mat for puppy that encourages safe exploration.
Key Takeaways
Teaching “Find It” through snuffle-mat play improves obedience and scent confidence.
Short, positive sessions prevent frustration and chewing.
Use small, high-value treats and lots of praise.
End every session on success to build trust and enthusiasm.
Why Teach the “Find It” Cue with a Snuffle Mat
The Science of Scent Training for Puppies
Scent work taps into a puppy’s most powerful sense—the nose. According to the AKC Scent Games guide [1], sniffing activates problem-solving centers in the brain and can lower stress hormones. That’s why snuffle-mat training quickly relaxes even excitable pups.
Behavioral and Bonding Benefits
This gentle activity teaches patience, self-control, and confidence. It also deepens the bond between you and your puppy as they learn to trust your cues and enjoy teamwork.
Nose work gives puppies mental exercise that rivals physical play,notes veterinary behaviorist Dr. Karen Overall [1].
Steps to Teach Puppy to Find It with a Snuffle Mat
Step-by-Step: How to Teach Your Puppy to “Find It”
| Step | Action | Training Tip |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Introduce the mat | Let your puppy sniff it first. Drop visible treats on top so they associate it with fun. |
| 2 | Add the cue “Find It!” | Say the words right before your pup starts sniffing. Use a cheerful tone. |
| 3 | Hide treats deeper | Increase difficulty gradually. Reward persistence and calm searching. |
| 4 | Add distance | Place the mat a few feet away and cue “Find It!” to build focus and recall. |
| 5 | End on success | Finish while your puppy is still eager. Keep sessions under 5 minutes at first. |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Over-Stuffing the Mat
Too many treats remove the challenge—less is more.
Skipping Supervision
Always stay nearby. Puppies may chew or pull fleece strips if unsupervised.
Moving Too Fast
Add difficulty only when your puppy consistently succeeds.
Positive-reinforcement methods, says VCA Animal Hospitals [2], create faster learning and better behavior retention than punishment-based approaches.
How Often to Practice “Find It” Training
Short daily sessions—about 5 minutes—are ideal.
Puppies learn best with repetition and rest between games. If your pup starts wandering or yawning, that’s mental fatigue; stop before boredom sets in.
You can even combine “Find It” with mealtime by scattering kibble in the mat to encourage calm eating.
Advanced Snuffle Mat Challenges
Multiple Scent Trails
Add variety by rubbing safe herbs like basil or chamomile on a few strips. Calming scent-based play can reduce anxiety and promote curiosity, notes Fear Free Pets [3]. Avoid tea tree, eucalyptus, and citrus oils, which aren’t dog-safe.
Add Other Commands
Combine “Find It” with cues like “Wait” or “Leave It” to build impulse control and focus.
Switch Surfaces and Locations
Move the mat to new rooms or surfaces so your puppy generalizes the cue everywhere.
FAQ: Teaching “Find It” to Puppies
At what age can I start?
From about 8 weeks, with close supervision.
How long should sessions last?
Three to five minutes is plenty for beginners.
What treats work best?
Soft, pea-sized rewards or your pup’s own kibble. See PetMD’s puppy training basics here [4].
Can this help anxious puppies?
Yes—sniffing naturally releases calming endorphins and promotes focus.
Final Thoughts
Mastering these steps to teach puppy to find it with a snuffle mat is more than a trick—it’s a bonding ritual that boosts confidence and calm focus. Keep sessions positive, brief, and consistent, and your puppy will soon light up every time you say “Find It!”
Want to make training even more fun? Try the Luftpets snuffle mat for puppies and watch your little explorer thrive.
Sources & Expert References
- American Kennel Club (AKC) – Scent Games for Dogs
- VCA Animal Hospitals – Training Your Dog with Positive Reinforcement
- Fear Free Pets – Reducing Stress with Enrichment Play
- PetMD – Puppy Training Basics