31 Jul 15-Minute DIY Dog Snuffle Basket
Ever heard of a snuffle mat? They’re really fun and engaging dog puzzles made from pieces of fabric with lots of floppy flaps or loops (some even have pockets) that are used to hide treats. We actually made our first snuffle mat ever from a kitchen sink rubber mat, but because of its size, it took quite a bit of time to complete the project.
So this week, we put our heads together…and voila…the 15-Minute DIY Dog Snuffle Basket! Not only is this project quicker and easier to make, but its miniature size makes it a pawfectly portable puzzle toy, too!
You’ll need…
1 miniature plastic storage basket
½ yard of fleece
A sharp pair of scissors
Dry treats or kibbles only (wet food is a no-no, to avoid a mess and mold)
Step 1
Cut fleece into strips about 8-10 inches long and 1 inch wide. Feel free to vary the lengths and widths a bit. That’ll make the finished mat more fun when your dog is trying to find the treats.
Step 2
Pull both ends of a fleece strip through holes in the basket and tie a knot to secure it.
Step 3
Continue tying fleece strips around the basket until it’s covered.
Step 4
Fill the basket with your dog’s favorite dry food kibbles or small treats and let the fun begin!
Remember to supervise your dog’s play closely when using the dog snuffle toy. Dogs left alone with the basket could chew bits of the fleece strips off and possibly swallow them…which could be quite harmful.
Once playtime is over, take the toy outside and give it a thorough shake to remove any remaining food bits. For cleaning, hand wash with soap and water. Fluff up the fleece and let it air dry.
This little container of fluff floppy goodness is such a fun way to give your dog his food or treats, while providing a brain stimulating activity. Your pup will love searching for all the hidden treasures!
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Don’t forget to share your pictures with us below or on Facebook. We always love seeing what you make for your furry best friends!
Want to see this LIVE VIDEO? Check it out HERE! https://youtu.be/gLPwv5cABBg
Robin Rutherford Cost
Posted at 17:39h, 07 JanuaryNose work helps build a dog’s confidence too. I was hoping to see your dogs check out the basket and the mat on the mat video. We’ll probably do this for a craft day at our local dog club too! Thank you!
Patti
Posted at 02:05h, 08 JanuaryYou’re so right about nose work – it can have such a positive affect on dogs in lots of ways!
So thoughtful of you to wanna see our pups in action with these snuffle toys. We may just do that in our next snuffle toy DIY video for you!
Love the idea of getting everyone together at your local dog club for a craft day to make this! How fun!! 🙂
K. Francis
Posted at 14:48h, 04 MayMy pup loves her snuggle mats, puzzles any nose work. This is a good idea only for very small dogs or puppies. It was too small for my 30 lb. puppy, she got frustrated and picked it up and simply shook all the treats out! 🫣 I made one for a friends tiny chihuahua mix and it was great for her.
Patti
Posted at 23:01h, 04 MayOh, that’s so good to know! Thanks much for sharing your pup’s experience – a larger basket might work, but then it gets hard to get the right dimensions with larger baskets because they can be too tall for some dogs. It’s fun to hear you’re using your crafty talents to brighten your friend’s doggy’s day! Such a thoughtful person you are! 🙂