Snuffle Mat for Small Large Dogs (39.4" x 39.4") - Nosework Feeding, Easy to Fill, Machine Washable Training, Pet Activity/Toy/Play, Great for Stress Release - L

We have a 5-month-old cattle dog / collie puppy. She is very active, very smart, and loves to be kept busy. She has chewed her way through more than a few toys, so I was a bit hesitant to get this, for fear that she would chew all the fabric pieces and destroy the snuffle mat. But it has been one of our best purchases for her, hands down.When we first introduced the snuffle mat, a family member kept the puppy busy while I loaded it with food, and then we let her at it. She quickly figured out what to do and LOVED it.We load the mat with regular food, and it will fit almost a full meal for her. The "cups" are usually the area she goes to first, because it is very easy, even if I smush the fabric to cover the food. The "grassy" area is also pretty easy for her to find food, and it is easy for her to grab the food and leave the fabric pieces alone. The "booklet" flaps took her a few tries to master, but she is now able to easily nose through and get food. The "pockets" and the "flowers" are the sections she goes to last, only when the other food is gone.Only one time has she chewed a fabric piece on the mat. I got distracted, and she got frustrated on one of the flowers and started to chew the fabric. As soon as I noticed, I removed the mat, and she has not done it since. She has also on one or two occasions decided it was easier to just pick the mat up and shake it so the food would all fly out. When she did this we removed the mat, and she has not done it again.We've had the mat for over a month now, and we actually leave it on the floor most of the day, and load it with food at mealtimes. If she is hungry, she will go over and start nosing for food, but otherwise she leaves it alone. She also has a nice food bowl, but most of the time she would rather eat her food from the snuffle mat.For the price, I think this is a must-have, especially for working-breed dogs who enjoy a challenge. You'll need to watch closely at first, make sure that the mat is loaded with food before they have access, and then remove the mat if they start to chew or shake it. But once they understand the concept, they will love it.I have not tried other brands of mats, but this one was recommended on several pet sites, and I've been very happy with it. The fabric is thick and relatively durable (for fabric, anyway). There is a non-skid coating on the bottom (we use it on a rug so I don't know how well it works on hard floors), and there is a nice fabric tie to keep it tidy when rolled up. It also has a variety of puzzles in a range of difficulty levels.I would definitely recommend snuffle mats in general and this one specifically to pet owners.

Fun exercise for dogs.I used it to get my puppy to scent train.

If you’re like me and your dog is your baby/bestie I highly recommend this. My girl, B.Kiddo, has always had tummy issues. It’s been a year of different foods, products, vet visits. Since getting this kiddo is more cuddly, less nosy, more regular in time and consistency of #2s. Which is great for her.For me the product needed to be visually acceptable, small enough to fit in a tight corner, washable, and portable. So, high list. It checks off 100% of the boxes. I’m literally writing this as kiddo finishes up a snack and walked over to kiss my legs thanking me lol.Will not ever be without. Can I get a bulk or wholesale order please so I never have to worry about missing this product?!!!?! Please ping me thank you! (This is not an ad. I’m a really picky consumer and truly would insist you own this product. )

Hold up well. Keeps pup entertained

The media could not be loaded. I’ve got a very smart, very high energy Australian shepherd who gets bored easily. Ideally, we go outside to get exercise and release energy, but I do have to work and leave him home for awhile during the day.I don’t think sniff mats are meant to keep them occupied for hours (mine finds all the treats and loses interest within 20 minutes), but I do think they can be useful additions to your dog’s collection of toys. On rainy days when they’re bored and you want to give them something to do for just a bit, this is really nice. It’s similar to when you get bored with your kids or your friends, so you pull out a board game to pass some time. Usually it won’t take hours, but it gives you something to do for a bit.This sniff mat is really good for what it is, which is basically just another toy to add to your dog’s collection. It’s not meant to replace all other toys, it’s just a nice interesting addition to occupy them for a little bit. It does have a grippy bottom which is nice too, but don’t be surprised if your dog uses his paws or nose to push it around and lift it up; that’s just the nature of the sniffing game and nothing wrong with the mat itself

Lots of hiding places for treats. Kept my puppy occupied for quite a while.