A snuffle mat is an incredibly easy way to add enrichment to your large dog’s life. Many of our dogs have the same routine and are exposed to the same things day in and day out.

A snuffle mat is a simple way that you can provide canine enrichment and help your dog tap into their natural scavenging instincts. Plus, it will slow down their eating and strengthen their sense of smell. 

I think you’re going to want to order a few of the ready-made options below. I curated the 10 best snuffle mats for large dogs I could find online. They’re just so creative!

For comparison’s sake, I also included my new washable DIY version at the end so you have all the snuffle mat resources in one place!

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The Importance of Material and Design in Snuffle Mats

When it comes to choosing a snuffle mat for your pup, the material and design are crucial factors to consider.

The first time I used a snuffle mat with my dogs was in 2020. I made a DIY version with a piece of cardboard and a fleece blanket that I didn’t mind cutting up. We used the snuffle mat all the time! I made a second one and my two dogs have enjoyed eating dinner off their mats at least a couple of times per week.

I recently made a new washable DIY version of our snuffle mat. But I know that not everyone is a crafty dog mom. And that’s OK! Because there are a ton of great, creative snuffle mats available for you to buy.

When shopping for a snuffle mat, first and foremost, the materials must be non-toxic and safe for your dog. Polar fleece is a popular choice because it is soft, durable, and non-toxic.

Second, I like to to opt for a snuffle mat with a non-slip bottom to help it stay in place while my dog is sniffing and snuffling with it! This is especially important when considering the best snuffle mats for large dogs because big dogs can easily move things around. You don’t want kibble flying all over the place!

Third, machine washability is another practical feature to look for! That makes it much easier to care for your new dog enrichment toy and help it last as long as possible. If you have a large dog, they might drool more than their smaller friends… so you will want to wash the mats every now and then!

When it comes to design, snuffle mats come in various difficulty levels. You can find the right mat for your dog’s needs including senior dogs, visually impaired dogs, and those recovering from surgeries.

When it comes to canine enrichment, activities should always be fun, never frustrating. A good snuffle mat will challenge your dog without frustrating them. It will encourage them to use their natural scavenging instincts while providing mental stimulation.

Top 10 Snuffle Mats for Dogs Large Dogs

There are some really fun snuffle mats in here! As always, as a labrador mom, I considered large breed dogs when choosing what snuffle mats to feature here. Some of the designs out there are just too small and delicate for big dog like our’s.

To find the right snuffle mat for a big dog, it doesn’t necessarily have to be a really big mat. It’s more about how the fleece or felt stips are cut and how a large dog can interact with it. I also want to make sure it’s durable enough for my labradors. They need something that can handle a little tugging and chewing!

Remember to supervise your pup during their first few interactions with a new snuffle mat to ensure they are using it correctly and not getting too frustrated. Each dog is unique, and what works well for one pup might not be suitable for another. It’s essential to find a snuffle mat that matches your dog’s needs and abilities to ensure a positive and beneficial experience.

I hope this list helps you find the perfect snuffle mat for your large dog. Whether you choose to buy one or make your own, your dog will surely appreciate the effort.

Mat #1: Paw5 Wooly Snuffle Mat

ThePaw5 Wooly Snuffle Mat is a top pick for many dog owners. Its special features include a soft, shaggy surface that mimics the outdoors, making it a natural choice for dogs. The mat is made of sustainable and machine-washable materials, making it environmentally friendly and easy to clean.

This is a great pick for senior dogs or puppies since it’s fairly simple compared to some of the other mats on this list. This one is most similar to my DIY snuffle mat version that my dogs love!

Overall, the Paw5 Wooly Snuffle Mat is an excellent choice for dogs that need a bit of extra mental stimulation during mealtime.

Snuffle Mat #2: Awoof Pet Snuffle Mat Large

The Awoof Pet Snuffle Mat is another fantastic option. When you click through to see this mat on Amazon, it comes in 4 different sizes. Perfect for big dogs!

It features multiple hiding spots. It’s almost like 2 or 3 snuffle mats in one, making it more challenging and engaging for your pup. The mat is made of non-toxic, eco-friendly materials and has a non-slip bottom to keep it in place during use.

On the downside, it might be a bit too challenging for some dogs, especially those new to snuffle mats. This mat has a lot going on!

Nevertheless, the Awoof Pet Snuffle Mat is perfect for dog parents looking to provide their pup with a fun and stimulating feeding experience.

#3: Sniffiz SmellyMatty

The Sniffiz SmellyMatty stands out for its unique design and interactive features. It has various loops, mats and attachments to hide treats or kibble, making it a challenging and engaging activity for your dog.

This can be changed a little bit every time you give it to your dog. That’s a great feature because it keeps the puzzle fresh and different.

This one is also on the more complex side, so it’s essential to supervise your pup during the first few uses.

Overall, the Sniffiz SmellyMatty is perfect for dog parents looking to challenge their pup’s problem-solving skills.

Dog Enrichment Mat #4: Stellaire Chern

The Stellaire Chern snuffle mat is designed to stimulate your dog’s brain and encourage natural foraging instincts. It features multiple layers of fabric strips where you can hide treats or kibble, making it a fun and interactive feeding experience for your pup. As we always look for, the mat is made of high-quality, non-toxic materials and has a non-slip bottom.

This is one I would steer clear of if you have a heavy chewer. I think some dogs might be inclined to rip off some of the compartments. But overall, the Stellaire Chern snuffle mat is an excellent option for dogs that enjoy interactive feeding experiences.

Mat #5: Rundik Snuffle Mat

The Rundik Snuffle Mat is another great option for dogs of all sizes and breeds.It’s pretty big – 17″ x 21″ – making it perfect for large breed dogs.

The mat is made of eco-friendly, non-toxic materials, and it has a non-slip bottom to keep it in place during use. It also has suction cups that you can use to secure it to one place on the floor. Always supervise your dog with enrichment toys to make sure they don’t ingest any parts or pieces (like those suction cups!).

The Runda Snuffle Mat is perfect for dog parents looking to provide their pup with a fun and engaging feeding experience. I really like the simplicity of this option.

Snuffle Mat #6: Pet Arena Adjustable Snuffle Mat

The Pet Arena Adjustable Snuffle Mat is unique because you can adjust the difficulty level to suit your dog’s needs. It has multiple compartments and layers of fabric strips for hiding treats or kibble. You can cinch in the outer layer to make it more like a bowl. Or loosen the string to have it lay flat.

The mat is made of non-toxic, durable materials, and the base is anti-slip to keep it in place during use.

It may take some time for your dog to get used to the adjustable features. Overall, the Pet Arena Adjustable Snuffle Mat is perfect for dog parents looking to customize their pup’s feeding experience and experiment with a different kind of enrichment mat.

Mat #7: Pet Life ‘Sniffer Grip’ Interactive Anti-Skid Suction Pet Snuffle Mat

The Pet Life ‘Sniffer Grip’ Snuffle Mat features an innovative design with 4 anti-skid suction cups that can be attached to any flat surface, making it a versatile option for dogs that tend to push their mats around.

Instead of fleece strips, this mat features loops made of durable nylon webbing. This is a very study snuffle mat and would be suitable to dogs who tend to destroy more delicate toys.

However, it’s on the smaller side so if you have a large breed dog this would be better for a snack activity than feeding a whole kibble meal.

Overall, the ‘Sniffer Grip’ Snuffle Mat is a great choice for active dogs that need a bit more stability during feeding time.

Mat #8: Handmade Large Snuffle Mat by LifesATreasureMat

This snuffle mat from LifesATreasureMat on Etsy is a beautiful handmade option. It features the ability to roll up the mat for storage and it’s available in multiple colors.

The mat has several layers of fabric strips for hiding treats or kibble and is made of non-toxic, polar fleece material. However, it may not be suitable for heavy chewers or extremely active dogs as it is hand-made and may not be as durable as some of the other options.

I think this handmade Snuffle Mat is perfect for dog parents looking for a unique, handmade option to add some style to their pup’s feeding time.

Enrichment Mat #9: DogNmat Taco Snuffle Mat

The DogNmat Taco Snuffle Mat is a fun and creative option for your pup!

Shaped like a taco, this mat features multiple compartments and fabric strips for hiding treats or kibble. There’s also crinkle material and squeakers in the tortilla.

It’s made of non-toxic, durable materials, and the bottom is anti-slip. However, its unique design might be a bit too challenging for some dogs initially.

The DogNmat Taco Snuffle Mat is perfect for dog parents looking to add some fun and creativity to their dog’s feeding routine. It would also make a great gift because it’s packaged like a real taco!

Mat #10: A DIY Snuffle Mat Tutorial

For those who enjoy a bit of crafting, making your own snuffle mat can be a rewarding experience. And it’s not that hard!

I recently created a new washable DIY version of our snuffle mat. In this tutorial, I provide a step-by-step guide on how to create your own snuffle mat, complete with a video for visual learners.

While making a DIY snuffle mat can be a fun and cost-effective option, it does require some time and effort. If you’re not the crafty type, there are plenty of ready-made options available online that your pup will love!

Canine Enrichment through Sniffing and Scavenging

Snuffle mats are a fantastic way to add enrichment to your dog’s life. They encourage:

• Natural scavenging instincts
• Provide mental stimulation
• Fun and engaging activity for both you and your pup!

Whether you choose to buy a ready-made snuffle mat or make your own, this is an easy way to add a lot of great things to your dog’s daily routine.

Remember, it’s essential to choose a snuffle mat that suits your dog’s needs and abilities. Some dogs may prefer a more challenging mat, while others may enjoy a simpler design.

I’ve seen firsthand how much my dogs enjoy using their snuffle mats. It’s become a regular part of our routine! I usually do a snuffle mat dinner for my dogs Burt and Lucy at least once a week. I love knowing that I’m providing them with a beneficial activity that they enjoy.

I encourage you to give it a try and see how your pup responds. And remember, the most important thing is that your dog is having fun and staying healthy!

I would love to hear about your experiences with snuffle mats, so please feel free to share in the comments below.

Did you like this post? Check out more canine enrichment ideas:
The best all-natural dog chews for aggressive chewers
Review: Nina Ottosson Hide’n’Slide Dog Enrichment puzzle
What’s a West Paw Toppl? And how do you use it?
DIY Busy Box for dogs using recycled containers
Kong Stuffing recipes my labradors LOVE!