Choosing what to put in a snuffle mat is key to keeping your dog entertained and mentally stimulated.
Studies show that snuffle mats not only provide mental enrichment but also satisfy your dog's natural foraging instincts. So, what are the best foods to put on these mats?
In fact, experts suggest using a variety of dry dog foods - or healthy treats - to maximize your dog’s enjoyment and nutritional intake [1][2]. These items are not only nutritious but also easy to hide within the snuffle mat, providing a fun and engaging challenge for your pup.
In this article, I'll explore the benefits of snuffle mat treats, the best types of treats to use, and tips on keeping your mat clean and your dog engaged.
So, keep reading to discover how to turn mealtime into a stimulating adventure for your furry friend!
Key Takeaways
- Variety is Vital: Using a mix of dry dog foods and healthy treats in your mat keeps your dog entertained and engaged.
- Dehydrated Fruits and Veggies: Dehydrated fruits and vegetables like apples, bananas, and sweet potatoes make excellent mat treats.
- Check for Proteins and Herbs: Adding proteins such as hard cheese cubes and dehydrated meats, along with aromatic herbs, can enhance your dog’s snuffle mat experience.
What to Put in a Snuffle Mats? 5 Nutrition TIPS!
Use any dry dog food in your snuffle mat to keep things simple and mess-free. Wet food isn’t ideal since the fabric doesn’t handle moisture well, especially in larger mats, such as those designed for snuffle mats for large dogs.
Here's what you need to know!
1. Mixed treats
To maximize your dog’s enjoyment and nutritional intake, mix up the types of food and scents you use.
Be mindful of treat quantities to avoid overfeeding. Homemade treats are a fantastic option—they're cost-effective, and you know exactly what your dog is eating.
Here are a couple more snuffle mat tips. Thanks, Snuffle Mom!
2. Dehydrating Fruits & Veggies for Snuffle Mats
Dehydrated fruits and vegetables make excellent mat treats!
For a fancy combo, mix in different kinds like kibble, dehydrated fruits (such as apples, bananas, and sweet potatoes), and dried vegetables (like carrots and broccoli).
You can dehydrate them at home by slicing them into bite-sized pieces and baking them at 200°F for 4-8 hours until they reach your desired consistency.
An air fryer works, too, but remember to refrigerate the treats afterward since this method doesn’t fully dehydrate them. Here are some fruits and vegetables to try:
- Carrots
- Coconut
- Bananas
- Blueberries
- Apples
- Strawberries
- Sweet Potatoes
- Broccoli
3. Herbs for Dogs
Herbs add an intriguing aroma that keeps your dog's nose engaged. Check out our blog for the best herbs to include in your mat!
4. Proteins
Throw in proteins like hard cheese cubes, bacon (occasionally), and dehydrated meats for variety. Here are some protein options:
- Hard cheese cubes or shreds
- Bacon (occasionally)
- Dehydrated chicken
- Dehydrated liver
- Fish skins
- Dehydrated fish without seasoning or salt
5. Homemade Treats
Homemade treats are perfect for snuffle mats. Crumble up homemade dog treats like our peanut butter cookies to give your dog a tasty and nutritious reward. These snuffle mat treats not only enhance the experience but also ensure your dog gets a healthy snack during playtime.
Snuffle Tips and Tricks
Our goal is to make sure your dog has a blast with their snuffle mat! Here are some tips to maximize the fun and benefits:
1. Full Meals Work Too
Snuffle mats aren't just for dry treats; they can be used for full meals as well. This not only slows down your dog's eating but also keeps them occupied for longer periods.
2. Burn Calories with Mental Stimulation
Did you know that 15 minutes of sniffing uses as much energy as an hour of physical exercise? Don’t underestimate the power of mental stimulation to tire out your pup.
3. Keep It Clean
Regularly washing the mat helps reduce the risk of bacteria buildup. Before washing, give it a quick shake to remove any leftover bits of food.
4. Stay Safe
Always supervise your dog while they are using the snuffle mat to prevent excessive chewing or flipping the mat over, ensuring they enjoy their activity safely.
How to Keep Your Dog's Snuffle Mat Clean & Stain-Free
Keeping your dog's snuffle mat clean and free from food contamination is essential for their health and safety. Here's how to maintain it properly and prevent food spills and contamination.
After each use, shake the mat vigorously to dislodge any remaining bits of food. This step prevents leftover crumbs from attracting bacteria and keeps the mat fresh.
Wash the snuffle mat frequently. Depending on the material, either machine wash it or hand wash it with mild soap and warm water.
Ensure the mat is thoroughly dried before reuse to prevent mold and mildew growth.
Store the snuffle mat in a clean, dry place between uses. Avoid damp areas where moisture can encourage bacteria and mold.
If possible, rotate between multiple mats to allow each one to dry completely, reducing the risk of contamination.
Supervise your dog during play to prevent excessive chewing or flipping the mat, which can scatter food and make cleaning up more challenging.
Encourage your dog to eat the treats directly from the mat rather than dragging them onto the floor.
Rather, use a mat with holes or a rubber base to make cleaning easier and more effective. These features help prevent food from becoming trapped in the fabric, reducing contamination risks.
By following these steps, you can keep your dog's snuffle mat clean and hygienic, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for your furry friend every time.
This proactive approach not only promotes their well-being but also enhances the longevity and effectiveness of the enrichment toy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Snuffle Mats
1. How do I clean my snuffle mat?
Toss it in the washing machine on a gentle cycle with an all-natural detergent, or hand wash it with dish soap.
Air dry thoroughly. Regular cleaning ensures hygiene and safety for your pup.
2. Can I use wet food in a snuffle mat?
No, wet food is not recommended for snuffle mats. The fabric design is best suited for dry food or treats.
If you prefer wet food, consider a lick mat instead to avoid mess and keep the snuffle mat in good condition.
3. What types of treats are best for snuffle mats?
Use dry treats or kibble to keep the mat clean. Homemade dehydrated fruits and vegetables, hard cheese cubes, or small pieces of cooked, dry meat work well.
Conclusion
So, what to put in a snuffle mat wasn't that hard, was it?! Here's a wrap-up...
When filling your snuffle mat, prioritize dry treats and kibble to maintain cleanliness and durability.
Homemade dehydrated fruits and vegetables like carrots, bananas, and apples are excellent choices. Small cheese cubes, cooked dry meats, and dehydrated proteins such as liver or chicken work well, too.
Avoid wet or crumbly foods to keep the mat in good condition. For an engaging and nutritious treat experience, mix various scents and textures, ensuring your dog stays entertained and mentally stimulated.
Feel free to share your favorite snuffle mat recipes in the comments below! Until next time, happy snuffling!
Resources
- Rothkoff L, Feng L, Sarah-Elizabeth Byosiere. Domestic pet dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) do not show a preference to contrafreeload, but are willing. Scientific Reports [Internet]. 2024 [cited 2024 Mar 8];14. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10789754/
- Snuffle Mats for Dogs: Our Guide Revealed | Purina [Internet]. www.purina.co.uk. Available from: https://www.purina.co.uk/articles/dogs/behaviour/play/are-snuffle-mats-good-for-dogs