The Snuffle Feeding Mat is a snuffle mat for dogs made from soft polar fleece, where you hide treats, kibble or small toys for your dog to sniff out. It has a non-slip base, is machine washable and comes in a wide range of colours, with sizes of 48 x 38cm and 69 x 53cm. It suits any owner who wants a simple, everyday way to add nose-based enrichment to feeding time.
Snuffle mats have become one of the most popular enrichment tools for UK dog owners, and it is easy to see why. They take something your dog does every day, eating, and turn it into a sniffing game. This guide explains how a snuffle mat works, who it suits, how to choose between the options and how to keep it clean.
What is a snuffle mat for dogs?
A snuffle mat is a mat covered in strips or folds of fabric. You scatter food into the fabric, and your dog uses their nose to find it, nudging and rummaging between the strips to reach each piece. Instead of swallowing a bowlful in seconds, your dog searches for every bite.
Sniffing is a natural, rewarding behaviour for dogs. A snuffle mat lets them do it at home, on rainy days, after surgery recovery walks have been cut short (with your vet's guidance), or simply as part of their normal routine.
Specifications and options
- Material: soft polar fleece
- Washing: machine washable
- Base: non-slip
- Sizes: 48 x 38cm and 69 x 53cm (Green is offered in both sizes)
- Colours: a wide range including Grey, Sunflower, Blue Pink, Army Green, White, Yellow, Brown, Orange, Pink and Green
- Sets: multi-mat set options are also available
- Price: from £27.99, depending on colour, size and set
Who a dog sniffing mat suits
Puppies
Puppies have short attention spans and lots of curiosity. A snuffle mat is an easy, low-pressure way to let them use their nose, and it can make mealtimes a little calmer. It is a common addition to a puppy starter kit.
Speedy eaters
If your dog finishes their dinner before you have put the bag away, scattering it into a snuffle mat naturally slows things down because each piece has to be found. If fast eating is causing problems such as vomiting, speak to your vet.
Older or less mobile dogs
Sniffing is a gentle activity that does not require running or jumping, so a snuffle mat can be a nice option for older dogs or those on restricted exercise. Always follow your vet's advice about activity levels.
Dogs left with time on their paws
On days when walks are shorter, perhaps because of bad weather, a few minutes of nose-work can help take the edge off.
How to choose and use a snuffle feeding mat
Pick the right size
The 48 x 38cm size is a good fit for smaller dogs and smaller spaces. The 69 x 53cm size gives more searching area, which suits larger dogs or owners who want to use it for a full meal. If in doubt, think about where it will sit on your floor and how big your dog's head and paws are.
Start simple
For the first few sessions, sprinkle food on top of the fleece so it is easy to find. As your dog gets the idea, push pieces deeper between the strips. Making it too hard too soon can lead to frustration, so build up gradually.
Use part of their daily allowance
Dry kibble or small dry treats work best. To avoid overfeeding, use part of your dog's normal ration rather than adding lots of extras.
Supervise and put it away
A snuffle mat is a feeding and enrichment tool, not a chew toy. Supervise your dog, and pick the mat up after use so it does not get chewed or dragged about. If your dog starts trying to chew the fleece, end the session and try again later with easier searching.
Building an enrichment routine
A snuffle mat works brilliantly on its own, but it is even better as part of a rotation of different activities through the week:
- Snuffle mat for calm, nose-focused feeding.
- A rolling dispenser such as the Treat Tumbler Wobble Ball for more active feeding.
- A puzzle feeder like the Rotating Slow Feeder Bowl for problem-solving.
Switching between formats keeps your dog interested and gives them a variety of challenges.
Snuffle mat care tips
- Shake it out: after each use, shake out crumbs and any leftover pieces of food.
- Machine wash regularly: the fleece is machine washable, which makes keeping it hygienic straightforward. Let it dry completely before the next use.
- Check for wear: look for loose or chewed strips and trim or retire the mat if it is becoming damaged.
- Keep a spare: if you use a mat daily, having two means one can be in the wash while the other is in use. The set options are handy for this.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Snuffle Feeding Mat machine washable?
Yes. It is made from soft polar fleece and is machine washable.
What sizes are available?
The listing gives sizes of 48 x 38cm and 69 x 53cm, and the Green colour is offered in both specific sizes.
Will it slide around on hard floors?
It has a non-slip base, which helps keep it in place while your dog searches.
Can I use a snuffle mat for every meal?
Many owners use one for some or all dry meals. Start with smaller portions while your dog learns, and check with your vet if your dog has particular dietary needs.
Can I hide toys in it as well as food?
Yes. The mat is designed for hiding treats or small toys for your dog to find.
Give your dog a reason to sniff every day. Shop the Snuffle Feeding Mat at The Canine Co.