Reddit mentions: The best dog feeding mats
We found 50 Reddit comments discussing the best dog feeding mats. We ran sentiment analysis on each of these comments to determine how redditors feel about different products. We found 22 products and ranked them based on the amount of positive reactions they received. Here are the top 20.
1. PAW5: Wooly Snuffle Mat - Feeding Mat for Dogs (12" x 18") - Encourages Natural Foraging Skills - Easy to Fill - Fun to Use Design - Durable and Machine Washable - Perfect for Any Breed
- Happy Dog Promise: Paw 5 snuffle mat for dogs will keep your puppy calm & occupied, fulfilling your dog's natural desire to sniff. It can be used with your dog's normal dry food instead of a dog bowl, or as a small dog bed
- Improves Metal Health: Ideal for all-sized dogs, Paw 5 dog enrichment toys make mealtimes fun & stimulating. Promoting slower eating, reducing bloating & gulping. Improving your dog’s health & mood. A boredom buster dog feeding mat your dog will love
- 100% Pet Safe - 7 years of R&D: Whether you’re using it as a dog snuffle mat or dog beds for small dogs, Paw 5 pet supplies are quality assured & durable. Handmade from soft organic cotton fibers, the sniff mat for dogs is machine washable
- Stops Destructive Behavior: Keep your dog occupied & entertained for hours when left alone, by reinforcing good behavior & replacing anxiety with a long-lasting treat. Paw 5 snuffle mat for dogs small doubles up as a dogs bed & a dog food puzzle
- Ethically Sourced in Ghana: Paw 5 dog supplies are manufactured in West Africa via Ethical Apparel Africa, supporting African factories to grow & equality for women. We're passionate about giving back to the community & ensuring a sustainable future
Features:
Specs:
Color | Gray |
Height | 2 Inches |
Length | 16 Inches |
Weight | 2.01 Pounds |
Width | 6 Inches |
Size | 12” x 17” |
2. Darkyazi Snuffle Mat Nosework Blanket Dog Training Mats Dog Feeding Mat Pet Activity Mat Great for Stress Release (M 23.6" x 39.4", Gray)
- Scent free solution
- Easy to apply
- Neoprene sleeve with clip included
Features:
Specs:
Weight | 1.39 Pounds |
3. FREESOO Snuffle Mat for Dogs Lickimats Pet Feeding Mat Nosework Training Play Mats Interactive Puzzle Toys for Stress Release Green
🔰【Natural Foraging】: Dog snuffle mat puts your dog’s nose and brain to work actively by mimicking hunting in nature, training and keeping their natural foraging skills. The challenging treat dispensing maze toys avoid your dog's bored and relieve their stress. You just hide your dog's favor...
Specs:
Height | 1 Centimeters |
Length | 75 Centimeters |
Width | 45 Centimeters |
4. Petmate Le Bistro Single Pet Food Mat, Gray, Small
Quality Material used for your pet's best healthDesigned in the USA with high standards setTrusted for decades in the pet industry and setting new standardsRaised border to prevent crumbles and spills from leaking onto the floor.Ribs on interior allow spilled water to remain within confines of the m...
Specs:
Color | grey |
Height | 0.99999999898 Inches |
Length | 18.49999998113 Inches |
Weight | 0.5070632026 Pounds |
Width | 11.79921258639 Inches |
Release date | September 2007 |
Size | Small |
Number of items | 1 |
5. AWOOF Pet Snuffle Mat for Dogs, Interactive Feed Game for Boredom, Encourages Natural Foraging Skills for Cats Dogs Bowl Travel Use, Dog Treat Dispenser Indoor Outdoor Stress Relief
★ Dog Training Toys: It is a unique dog training mat that allows your dog to find snacks or small toys hidden in the mat. It helps to train your dog's smell, consume your dog's energy and lose weight. Keep your dog occupied and avoid your dog being bored and engaged in destructive behavior.★ Non...
Specs:
Color | Brown/Green |
Weight | 0.5291094288 Pounds |
6. Coppthinktu Snuffle Mat for Dogs - Durable Dog Nosework Mat, Encourages Natural Foraging Skills Dog Feeding Mats - Dog Smell Training Mat Nose Work Blanket
【BOTTOM ANTISKID DESIGN】- Snuffle mat expand size: 19" x 19" fits for kinds of dogs and cats. This large snuffle mat is sturdy and the non-slip pad on the bottom adds extra stability while use. Don't worry about move or torn apart easily.【SLOW FEEDING TRAINING】- If your dog is food choking, ...
Specs:
Color | Green |
7. Stellaire Chern Snuffle Mat for Small Large Dogs Nosework Feeding Mat (23.6" x 39.4") Easy to Fill and Machine Washable Training Mats Pet Activity/Toy/Play Mat, Great for Stress Release - M
- ENGAGE YOUR DOG’S SENSE OF SMELL - Our dog snuffle blanket puts your dog’s nose and brain to work by mimicking the hunt for food in nature, encourages natural foraging skills.
- EASY TO USE DESIGN SLOW FEEDING MAT - Easy to fill, you can mix kibble and hide a few treats to spark dog's interest. Challenge through dog training mats, avoid your dog's bored and engage in destructive behavior. Great for stress release.
- EASY TO CLEAN AND CARRY - Machine washable pet snuffle mat made of polar fleece and upcycled materials, eco-friendly and durable construction. Roll up for storage and carrying.
- PERFECT FOR ALL DOGS - M 23.6" x 39.4". Indoor dog training mat builds interaction between owner and pet. Anti-slip backing can stays stable on floors, keeping them securely in place for less-messy pet feeding.
- NO RISK PURCHASE - We want to make your dog's life more enjoyable! If you are not satisfied with our product, we will do our best to solve your problem.
Features:
Specs:
Color | Grey |
Height | 4.33 Inches |
Length | 10.24 Inches |
Weight | 1.43 Pounds |
Width | 12.99 Inches |
Size | 23.6x39.4 Inch (Pack of 1) |
8. Routesun Snuffle Mat for Dogs Nosework Feeding Mat Small Large Dog Puzzle Rug Toys Slow Feeder Dog Toy Mats Pet Activity Toy Play Mat, Training Natural Foraging Skills for Dogs(M, Grey)
🐶Dog snuffle mat puts your dog’s nose and brain to work by mimicking the hunt for food in nature,Encourages natural foraging skills.Nosework mat satisfy intellectual curiosity.🐶Challenge through dog training mats , Avoid your Dog's Bored and Engage in Destructive Behavior.🐶Wooly snuffle m...
Specs:
Color | Grey |
Weight | 1.39 Pounds |
Size | Medium 23.6" x 39.4" |
Number of items | 1 |
9. Snuffle Mat for Dogs, Dogs Slow Feeding Training, Encourages Natural Foraging Skills, Pet Play Puppy Interactive Puzzle Toys, Durable and Machine Washable, Perfect for Any Breed
- This classic boat shoe features contrast stitching at the moccasin toe and metallic grommet eyelets
- Embossed logo at vamp
Features:
Specs:
Height | 1.9 Inches |
Length | 17.7 Inches |
Width | 17.7 Inches |
10. Petmate Le Bistro Single Pet Food Mat, Gray, Large
Quality Material used for your pet's best healthDesigned in the USA with high standards setTrusted for decades in the pet industry and setting new standardsRaised border to prevent crumbles and spills from leaking onto the floor.Ribs on interior allow spilled water to remain within confines of the m...
Specs:
Color | grey |
Height | 0.99999999898 Inches |
Length | 21.79921257619 Inches |
Weight | 0.5070632026 Pounds |
Width | 14.49999998521 Inches |
Release date | September 2007 |
Size | Large |
Number of items | 1 |
11. Kitchen Basics 423001 Microfiber Pet Bowl Mat, 10 Inch x 20 Inch, Taupe Paws
- 10 X 20 inch in size
- Helps protect floors from splashes and spills
- Highly absorbent with anti skid backing to keep in place
- Comfortably fits bowls 5 inch to 7 inch in diameter
- Machine washable
Features:
Specs:
Color | Taupe Paws |
Height | 20 Inches |
Length | 10 Inches |
Width | 0.75 Inches |
Size | 10" x 20" |
Number of items | 1 |
12. Easyology Premium Pet Food Tray - Dog Food Mat and Cat Food Mat with Non Skid Design - Best Pet Bowl Mat for Containing Spills, 17.5'' x 14''
- PROTECT YOUR FLOOR.. Waterproof rigid 17.5 x 14 Inch and raised 1 inch edges protects your floors in style!
- SKID PROOF DESIGN.. Eliminate spills with our skid proof pet mat! The means that your pet's dish, mat, and bowls stay in place.
- SAFE AND NON TOXIC.. Made from 100% recycled polypropylene. Safe for the environment and for your pets!
- EASY TO CLEAN.. Wash it down with a hose or rinse it in the sink! It's clean and ready to use again.
- RISK FREE.. We know you’re going to love it but if your not 100% satisfied you can return it for a full refund.
Features:
Specs:
Color | Dark Gray |
Height | 1 Inches |
Length | 17.5 Inches |
Width | 14 Inches |
13. AWOOF Snuffle Mat Pet Dog Feeding Mat, Durable Interactive Dog Toys Encourages Natural Foraging Skills
❤ RICH FEEDING GAME – Look at the Big Orange Flower in the middle of the snuffle mat. Total 4 layers of orange petals can hide large chunks of food easily. Outer ring of the rich and messy grass suitable for small size of food. Unlike other snuffle mat’s rare and regular grass can’t hide any...
Specs:
Color | natural |
14. Studio 21 Graphix Snuffle Mat for Dogs Large, Dog Puzzle Toys for Smart Dogs, Slow Eating Dog Bowl, Dog Interactive Toys Encourages Natural Foraging Skills (Green)
- Dog Training Mat: Release extra energy and keep your dog calm.10 minutes snuffling = 1 hour running.
- Eco-Friendly: This eco-friendly dog snuffle mat is made with felt fabric, durable, safe and non-toxic. It is substantial enough to prevent from tearing into pieces.
- Easy to Clean: The snuffle mat is very simple to clean. You can wash it in a washing machine. The recommendation is washing the snuffle bowl mat at least twice a week.
- Adjustable & Foldable: It can be folded as a feeding bowl or a snuffing mat.Soft enough to be folded into a small storage bag, which can be hung or put aside when not in use.
- Quality Guarantee: 3 Months no questions asked refund. Please contact us if you are not completely satisfied. We will reply to you ASAP.
Features:
Specs:
Color | Green |
Height | 1.5 Inches |
Length | 9.4 Inches |
Width | 7.8 Inches |
15. Drymate 16 by 28-Inch Dog Bowl with Large Place Mat in Paw Stripe Design, Grey/Black
Stops spills from soaking through and damaging your floor by absorbing up to 5 times its weight in liquidPrevents bowls from scratching floor and non-slip backing keeps mat in placeEasy to cleanwith soap and water and is also machine washableFabric fiber is made from over 50% recycled material and i...
Specs:
Color | Grey Stripe Black Paw |
Height | 0.125 Inches |
Length | 16 Inches |
Weight | 0.02 Pounds |
Width | 28 Inches |
Size | Large (16" x 28") |
Number of items | 1 |
16. SNiFFiz SmellyMatty Snuffle Mat for Dogs – Interactive Food IQ Toy Package (Large Nosework Blanket + 5 Treat Puzzle) – Mind Stimulating Games with Stress Relief for Boredom
- Indoor Enrichment Activity Dog Toys - Make canines sniff as much as they need with tricky entertainment. SmellyMatty's Treat Nosework blows away their separation anxiety.
- Longest Feeding Time EVER! - Slow feed your dog with 'Foraging Snuffle Mat + 5 Challenging Treat Dispensing Maze Puzzles'. Keep Your dog busy and calming for a good long while.
- Mental Stimulation from Small Puppy to Smart Dogs - You can adjust difficulty level of 5 difficult puzzle toys no matter dog's breed and characteristic. Challenge your dog with 5 unique brain teasers!
- Meal Time now can be Bonding Time - Repetition of Hide and Seek Training helps you and your dog literally INTERACT. Start Playing it every day with our entertaining slow puzzle feeder toys to bond with your dog
- Durable Fabric (oxford, Fleece); Non slip bottom; Anti-Flip Structure for large breed; Machine washable
Features:
Specs:
Color | Red, Green |
Height | 1.18 Inches |
Length | 31.5 Inches |
Weight | 3.5 Pounds |
Width | 31.5 Inches |
Size | 30 inch |
17. Easyology Premium Pet Food Tray - Dog Food Mat and Cat Food Mat with Non Skid Design - Best Pet Bowl Mat for Containing Spills, 17.5'' x 14’'
- Fast Charging: Gen-X magnetic 3 in 1 charging & data sync cable has been improved stability and charging current, max charging current is 3A.
- Universal Compatibility
- Conveniences: Specially designed for DRIVERS, HANDICAPPED PERSON, CHILDREN AND SENIORS. Easy snap-on with single hand and no eye-sight assistant necessary when charging and/or data sync is a Must. The cable can protect devices sockets from WEAR AND TEAR.
- CAUTION: 1) THE USB-C TIPS WERE ALREADY ATTACHED TO CABLES END. 2) Only compatible with GenX itself and NOT compatible with other generations, like Gen8/Gen6/Gen5/Gen4/Gen3 cable.
- Warranty: We provide 180 days warranty, any quality issue or questions please contact us.
Features:
Specs:
Color | A-1 |
Height | 1 Inches |
Length | 17.5 Inches |
Width | 14 Inches |
18. Mr. Peanut's Large Pet Food Mat, Premium FDA Food Grade Silicone, BPA Free, 24" X 16" Flexible and Easy to Clean Feeding Mat, Protects Your Floors from Food and Water Spills (Indigo Blue)
PREMIUM DESIGNED for durability in a size that fits practically anywhere, Each mat can fold or roll up for easy travel and storage so you can contain your pets messes no matter where you are 23.5" L x 15.5" W and .25" thickGRIPPER-DOTS PATTERN to keep food bowls from sliding. Raised edge & waterproo...
Specs:
Color | Indigo Blue |
Height | 0.25 Inches |
Length | 23 Inches |
Width | 15.5 Inches |
Size | 24" x 16" |
19. Andiker Dog Snuffle Mat, Nose-Work Pet Snuffle Mat, Dog Feeding Mat Can Stimulate Dog Mental & Physical Health-Durable and Machine Washable Dog Training Mat and Dog Puzzle Toys for Stress Release
1.【Dogs Interactive Puzzle Toys 】:This snuffle mat for dogs mimic the hunt for food in grass and fields, which satisfies dog’s natural instinct and motivate your dog’s sense of smell. Making your dog use its nose and brain to hunt for food. Your pet definitely like to play and search on t...
Specs:
Color | gray &white |
20. PetRageous Designs Bone 'n Up Tray Black, Non Slip Bottom
- Protects floors from spills
- Helps organize pet dining area
- Raised sides to contain messes
- Great for dogs of all sizes
- Non-slip pads to keep in place
- Embossed bone pattern around rim
- Easily wipes clean with damp cloth
- Measures 19.125 inches by 13.125 inches
Features:
Specs:
Color | Black |
Height | 1 Inches |
Length | 19.25 Inches |
Weight | 0.5 Pounds |
Width | 13 Inches |
🎓 Reddit experts on dog feeding mats
The comments and opinions expressed on this page are written exclusively by redditors. To provide you with the most relevant data, we sourced opinions from the most knowledgeable Reddit users based the total number of upvotes and downvotes received across comments on subreddits where dog feeding mats are discussed. For your reference and for the sake of transparency, here are the specialists whose opinions mattered the most in our ranking.
Please know that he's not trying to get into trouble. Dogs are observant, but -thankfully- incapable of premeditation. He's just bored and making his own fun. He doesn't know he's been bad. Dog's are much simpler than that. They experience moments. He just has a history of moments where you come home through the door and the garbage can is side ways, then you get angry or loud and he feels scared. So, in his pup brain, it's more like key in lock + garbage on floor = sinking feeling out of nowhere.
On to solutions!
I second an exercise pen or crate to keep his options limited. With the right preparation 8 hours of den-time can be pretty neutral for him. Even a locked room will focus in your puppy proofing efforts. Do treat it like a crate and work up to long absences though. However, the best thing you can do is come at it from the other side as well: lets wear this boy out. A comprehensive recipe for a perfect tired boy follows
So a sample perfect morning might go something like this: You wake up and take Good Boy out for a leak and some quality tug time. Maybe you're wife doesn't wan't to deal with most doggie-teen things, but it was her 2018 resolution to run more anyway. So you put on his back pack, tuck a .5 L water bottle into each side, and hand him off for his 5k. While she's gone you fill up yesterdays empty kong with canned food, and pop it in the freezer. Today's kong is frozen solid and ready to go. You grab giant ball to put in his play pen and a puzzle toy with those nasty fish puffs he loves. It's been a couple weeks so you put a puff of pheromone spray on his bed so that it smells like Good Mom. You make your coffee, scroll your reddit, eat your toast and generally get ready for the day. Good Boy is back, flopped on the floor and it's time to go. You do everything you need before you walk out the door, tie shoes, kiss wife, eveerything, and then your grab and jingle your keys. Good Boy comes running. "Caaarrot tiiime" you announce reaching in to the fridge. He paces until he sees you've got the goods then runs to his pen, where you make it rain baby carrot bits before booking it to your car before he can find them all. Wife will also throw a carrot party when she departs plus a stuffed toy and a rubber chewy. You come home to an upside down dog bed and the giant ball bit the dust and deflated, but the dog is happy and the house is fine.
Now, this may seem totally unrealistic, because in a way it is. Shit gets busy, runs get cut short, tug toys get lost, and humans do human stuff. Don't think of this as the bare minimum for a good day. Just think of it as what would happen in a perfect world where you had the time and brain power to do everything possible for Good Boy before heading off for work. If you can integrate any of this stuff, even slowly it will help you guys get through this teen phase with your house in tact.
Oh Lordy I have a ton...I'll try to categorize them...
Best for Puppies
These are all easy toys that dispense a lot of kibble with very little movement. Perfect for baby puppies or really low-confidence dogs. These can also be upgraded in difficulty later by stuffing them with wet food and freezing, or stuffing with a large, hard to extract treat (like a slice of lunchmeat).
Easy Rollers
These basically just dispense kibble by rolling. Not particularly complex, but good for the dog that prefers to solve puzzles by brute force.
Wobblers
These require a more finessed rolling motion to empty, so they're the next step up from just batting a toy around.
Complex Action Toys
These need movement in more than one direction (or very specific movement) to get kibble out of, which makes them pretty challenging.
Soothing, Low Energy Toys
Along with the stuff n' freeze toys, these are good for dogs on crate rest or who need some extra help relaxing before bed.
My dogs (and cats!) eat all their food out of puzzles so I am constantly on the lookout for new challenges! I'd be happy to provide more details on any of the toys I have, or buy and review any toys people have been wondering about :)
EDIT: btw this Jackson Galaxy Asteroid is my favorite cat puzzle toy. They really need to make one for dogs because it is kinda quirky with its bounciness and super quiet.
it sounds like while you're providing him with toys that he should be playing with instead of tearing up his environment, he's not as interested in those toys as he should be. Bunnies can be pretty picky about WHAT they want to chew on.
Experiment with a few different types of toys - you never know what he'll really get into until you try it. This is from the sidebar (which I know you said you've read).. trying some different options here might work better for him.
I can tell you from personal experience that my boys never like chew sticks, straw mats, straw caves/hovels, stuffed animals, or pretty much anything that said "for rabbits" on it. However, they LOVE tearing up an old phonebook. they love cardboard boxes - but they were never interested in them until i filled the boxes with things they could chew or dig in (unbleached/dyed packing paper - like the roll of plain brown paper you can get from the packing section of most stores, that weird softer cardboard packing material, hay - LOTS of hay, things like that). Once they saw they could get in there and have an activity, they liked it a lot better. They also liked it a lot better after I gave them a bigger, fort-sized cardboard box, and cut holes for them in all four sides to they can get in and out of it easily. they LOVE tossing plastic bottles around. They like it even more if it has a little bit of liquid in it (make sure the lid is tight so they can't open it).. that way there's a tiny bit of weight in it when they toss it about. they also love pet ramps (you can often find these a lot cheaper on woot.com). And they love it when i make a cubby hole for them somewhere, and put a chewable mat/rug down in it for them. It's like a combination hidey hole/dig spot for them.
You can also try treat traps. I've never tried them, myself, but for a more rambunctious bunny, it would likely keep them pretty occupied. As for your carpet, you can get a few small, cheap rugs to put down in his pen over your rental house carpets to keep your place safe. We have hardwood floors, so we put down various rugs around the house, not just so that if they dig, they dig in the cheap rug instead of our nice floors, but also to give them traction in their normal hang spots.
If distracting him with more interesting activities fails, you can get some sour-apple-tasting no-chew stuff from the pet store, and spray it in the places he tends to chews where he shouldn't be chewing. Just check the ingredients, and make sure there's nothing in there that might upset your bunny boy.
good luck!
Find a good vet and positive reinforcement trainer or take classes still positive reinforcement. Makes sure to crate train. Be consistent with all training everyday. Give lots of mental mad physical stimulus during day. In morning before you leave house talk potty walk and play to use some energy up. Make training fun, exercise some before you start will help them pay attention to you. Which every way you go class or trainer you must still work with your dog daily between the sessions. Being consistent is the only way they will learn what is expected. Only working onece a week isn't going to help.
Understand dogs do not know what we expect of them and must be taught. Again be consistent use redirecting for bad behavior giving a positive experience.
Potty training again make it fun and make a solid routine. If caught in house simply sternly say "no out" and walk outside. I'd suggest bell training to ring every time you go out with out command also give dog a way to say I need out. When goes outside be excited with lots of love and treats. I'd buy a small carpet clean, use enxyme ceeaner with it, for messes they can happen when change causes stress.
They are perpetual toddlers who will always need us including entertainment. You've got this wihh everyone here to help when we can.
Also a week not hearing from a rescue is not ghosting you. They stay busy with many run by volunteers. Sometimes it takes a little bit for them to go over everything before making a choice and other people are also interested.
I am glad it worked out and you have you new family member.
A few toys ideas:
UOLIWO Dog Treat Dispensing Toy, Duck Dog Toy Squeak Dog Treat Puzzle Toy Durable Plush Chew Toys for Small Medium Large Dogs Training Playing https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07N2NLBQ2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_Xl7LDbJTMP3F3
AWOOF Dog Puzzle Toys, Pet Snuffle Mat for Dogs, Interactive Feed Game for Boredom, Encourages Natural Foraging Skills for Cats Dogs Bowl Travel Use, Dog Treat Dispenser Indoor Outdoor Stress Relief https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07N1JYYCW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_Ym7LDb7DCBKCJ
Our Pets IQ Treat Ball Interactive Food Dispensing Dog Toy (ASSORTED COLOR) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003ARUKTG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_in7LDb9AX6C5Q
Trixie Dog Activity Flip Board Strategy Game (9.05 inch) (Multicolored) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B076MGW9RM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_Fn7LDbBAQ1KAK
The Trixie has tons of different ones.
u/crysanthemumCord is right on with their advice.
Just some more suggestions on toys: I almost buy dogs toys exclusively from Amazon or Chewy. I find that their prices are competitive, and who doesn't like having packages delivered right to them? Kongs are great, but there are also treat balls that dogs can roll around with their noses for kibble -- I feed my dogs from these so they get a bit of mental play while searching for their food. You can also consider snuff mats or lick mats or even puzzle toys. These are great ways to stimulate them mentally with minimal effort from you.
If you have stores like Marshalls or Ross near you, you can also find discounted dog toys. You'll have to dig around a little, but there are some great finds!
By the way, all of these links go to particular brands that I've had luck with. I'm by no means suggesting that these are the best or that there aren't alternatives out there. Do some research on what you think your pup will enjoy!
​
I have had the same issue. I adopted a Australian Shepherd who lived most of his life in shelters. It is so sad that he can't play yet. When I fist got Timber he couldn't even enjoy being touched. It's been a long road. I can recommend two things whole-heartedly:
I'm also playing a game - that I hope doesn't make me sound like a slob - my house is clean - I promise. But I get small treats that he really loves (cut up franks or cheese cubes) and I throw them in the house and he egg him on to run and chase them - he loves it - and I'm hoping to parlay this into fetch with a ball/frisbee. It takes a while but so rewarding to see them make little strides in 'dogging'. Good luck - please share a photo of your pup!
​
ETA: I'd also love to hear other advice/strategies!
My jindo also loves going for walks/sniffing, and does not care at all about toys. He is very food motivated, however, so we keep him mentally stimulated with different types of feeder puzzles/toys.
We have this snuffle/sniff mat for nosework and we have an assortment of the Nina Ottosson puzzle feeders (we started with this one which is a level 2). The puzzle feeders are great because they are labeled by difficulty level and, depending on which one you have, can be more mentally exhausting than others. We have a variety of level 1, 2, and 3. He's still trying to figure out how to master this one.
We only feed him his meals through these puzzle feeders/sniff mats and just switch up which puzzle he gets every day so he doesn't get bored. He really enjoys working on them and it's always entertaining to watch him think and figure them out/get better over time.
Like another commenter mentioned, we also do moderate obedience training every day for about 5-15 minutes. We work on reinforcing something he already knows to get a really solid response (and use these commands at the end of the session to end on a good note!), and we'll also incorporate a new command slowly within these sessions (the new commands we never go beyond 5 minutes of training within a session so he doesn't get frustrated). They're really smart dogs so they can pick up new commands quickly!
We're also looking into taking him to nosework classes, which are becoming more popular, so you can search and see if your area offers any near you, though I'm not sure that's what you're looking for if you're at home working.
And to reiterate what everyone else is saying, our boy loves to be near us and is very chill indoors, so I'm sure your pup is just glad you're home and around.
Not sure if this allowed couldn’t find anything in about section that prohibits sharing links but here ya go!
Nina Ottoson Outward Hound Dog Brick Treat Puzzle Dog Toy https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0711Y9XTF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_dzNPDbQ0N6AW1
PAW5: Wooly Snuffle Mat - Feeding Mat for Dogs (12" x 18") - Encourages Natural Foraging Skills - Easy to Fill - Fun to Use Design - Durable and Machine Washable - Perfect for Any Breed https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N1FV55I/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_dANPDbB4NDWAG
The last thing we did was get tennis balls and a muffin tin, filled a few with treats and covered the muffin slots with the balls to have her sniff them out.
And the easiest is to hide treats and have her sniff them out throughout the house.
Kongs are the simplest and its really easy to "level up". Start by just putting in dry kibble, then wet kibble, then freeze the wet kibble and seal up the big hole with yogurt or peanut butter. Then you can layer it so its frozen wet kibble, cheese, kibble, yogurt, kibble, peanut butter etc. It'll start taking longer and longer to get everything out. My pup loves the Kong Wobbler too! Not only does it tire him out, but it spreads out his meal so he doesn't eat it as fast. Same with the IQ ball. The puzzle board was great for awhile but then got too easy for him. Snuffle mats are pretty easy to DIY too if you don't want to fork over the money to buy a real one.
Sorry, that was my confusing typo. It should have read “she loves her snuffle mat.” A snuffle mat is a mat made of fleece material with various pockets to hide kibble in. Like this: https://www.amazon.com/Snuffle-Nosework-Washable-Training-Activity/dp/B07MFJB749/ref=asc_df_B07MFJB749/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312168070559&hvpos=1o3&hvnetw=g&hvrand=8381223204339441400&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=1014962&hvtargid=aud-801381245258:pla-663149291239&psc=1
I think once a week is perfect for classes. You need time in between classes to practice the behaviors being taught. One of the biggest gains from classes is that they teach you how to train your dog. You won’t get mastery of most behaviors in the six weeks that you have class, but you will know how to continue working so that you and your dog become well trained.
I did omit one big thing: housing security. Many people find pet ownership to be fun until they move. Where I am, many places do not allow pets, and only certain breeds or sizes. That can make finding an affordable place to live much more challenging. It’s hard to predict everything that may happen over the 15+ years of a dog’s life, but it is important to have dog friendly housing plans and alternatives in mind.
Here's what I've picked up for christmas gifts so far:
Still need to arrange a low budget work group secret santa, pick out some liquor for my boss, a nice candy set or something for some of our support staff downstairs and maybe something more personal for each of my in-laws-- I did find a beautiful painted glass Turkish bowl for my MIL but I'm at a loss for the others.
There's a bunch on Amazon. Just search for dog puzzles. For my dog I have:
Puzzle toys are great too. Kong Wobbler, The Foobler, and Snuffle Mats are great options. You can make your own snuffle mat pretty easily.
Thank you...so so so so much. I will definitely try this leash method in the AM. Just wanted to mention - we don't ever feed him in a bowl. We do make him work for his food. Either through a Kong, or a puzzle/snuffle matt (this in particular).
In the mean time, I will remain vigilant, and redirect with proper toys etc, the minute I see him ready to BITE.
Thanks!
Leash walking takes time to train, I’m talking minimum months, frequently a year or more.
>but what "nose work" can I give her that doesn't involve her wanting to pull me into someone yard?
That’s what you are going to train. You can play find with treats and toys. If you use a soft toy, I suggest storing it with your dog’s food so that it absorbs the smell.
You can also use a snuffle mat at home to hide treats, or kibble at meals. Using it for meals is great for active, nose driven dogs.
If she pulls you into a yard, stand firm and practice good leash manners.
Here’s a link to the snuffle mat I have.
If anyone else is interested in a snuffle mat but finds the cost prohibitive, it’s also possible to feed your pup by tossing kibble in the grass. Be sure your puppy has been vaccinated and that there is no waste or still water in the area before you do, though.
I posted a link to the flirt pole I have in another comment, if you’re interested, by the way.
Good luck!
You could name him Buck. Slightly the same as Bambi, easy to yell, goes well with expletives, and has all sorts of modifiers that will be fun: Bucky (BONUS HE CAN HAVE A BUCKY BALL!), buckster, buckingham, sir buckles mcbuckerton....
you could get this for Daisy so she doesn't mess up the new hardwood
or make her feel ferocious
I don't know how we lived without snuffle mats.
This is the best one you can buy that I'm aware of for meal feeding and regular use. We've had a couple for a long time and machine wash them frequently and they've held up beautifully. I personally wouldn't waste my money on a fleece one.
I've had 4 ferrets (Sable, Tux, Butterscotch & Black-eyed White). All of them exhibited similar behavior from time to time.
A lot of animals will "leak" a bit when they're in distress (like when a paw is caught) or excited. And if she went to squeeze through a space that was a bit tighter than she thought, while holding on to a full bladder; then yeah, she might let a little out (again, if she got caught for a few seconds and got scared, there might have been a reflex there, too).
If it becomes a very regular thing, head to a vet; but otherwise, I wouldn't worry too much.
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>She also digs out her water til it's ALL gone in seconds.
All of my fuzzies did this from time to time. It's annoying, and hilarious - but she's just having fun. I ended up getting a food mat to deal with the water (something like this or this might do the job).
Precious Abra may enjoy this hay tray instead. Our piggy injured his leg from jumping in and out of a deep tray as that one, he now enjoys this one: https://www.amazon.com/Easyology-Premium-Pet-Food-Tray/dp/B01FK6EY28/ref=sr_1_2?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1526857447&sr=1-2&keywords=Easyology+Premium+Pet+Food+Tray
A rescue local to me has started using things like
https://www.amazon.com/Wooly-Snuffle-Mat-Encourages-Foraging/dp/B01N1FV55I/ref=sr_1_32?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1538592079&sr=1-32&keywords=dog+food+mat
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To slow down their fast eaters. Those are just the first that came up on amazon for an example BTW
I have a pup who occasionally gets in a picky mood so I got one of these wobbler feeding balls to mix up his mealtime routine.
If he still seems disinterested, sometimes I throw in one or two pieces of a small treat that I know he will smell and go after. It's a lot of fun to watch, too!
Edit to add: Since you mentioned that she sometimes eats it when scattered on the floor... have you looked into a Snuffle mat? They are basically small fringed rugs that the food "hides" in and they have to sniff it out.
I recently made a snuffle mat for my dog. It is essentially a rubber bar mat with fleece strips tied through the holes to resemble grass. You make on yourself or buy one on Etsy or this one on Amazon
The best part is that the dog makes a wicked cute "snuffling" noise when sniffing for the food :)
Yep! It's actually a [snuffle mat] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0751324TZ?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf) that I bought on Amazon. It's fantastic, slip resistant and machine washable.
AWOOF Snuffle Mat Pet Dog Feeding Mat, Durable Indestructible Interactive Puzzle Dog Toys Encourages Natural Foraging Skills https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07QYZ2YPH/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_3tHlDb8RFGQDT
I also recommend a snuffle mat. I got this one. I love it because you can change the difficulty.
You could always order one from Amazon - this one has good reviews - and have it delivered to an Amazon Locker in the city for pickup.
This isn't a puzzle toy, but we feed our dog using a snuffle mat. It slows her dinner down from 5 seconds to 5+ minutes, her poops have gotten better, and it has the same kind of energizing/entertaining/mental stimulus factor.
Would this help?
http://www.amazon.com/Drymate-28-Inch-Large-Stripe-Design/dp/B00A8HXH32/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1407419384&sr=8-3&keywords=dog+bowl+mats
I have one similar to this for my drippy mouth'ed weimie and its not foolproof but it seems to help
Snuffle Matt with an IQ Ball is my genius invention I haven’t seen anywhere else.
https://www.amazon.com/Wooly-Snuffle-Mat-Encourages-Foraging/dp/B01N1FV55I/ref=asc_df_B01N1FV55I/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=198071232162&hvpos=1o1&hvnetw=g&hvrand=3592997858012089969&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9031939&hvtargid=pla-349638453770&psc=1
You hide kibble under the felt and it triggers the dogs instincts for digging through grass. It takes our 14 week old about 20 minutes to sniff it all out and holds a 1/3 cup easily.
https://www.amazon.com/Our-Pets-Treat-Interactive-Dispensing/dp/B003ARUKTG/ref=asc_df_B003ARUKTG/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=198111066934&hvpos=1o1&hvnetw=g&hvrand=10592075457433977437&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=m&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9031939&hvtargid=pla-355229308255&psc=1
She pushes the IQ ball around to get kibble out and they fall in to the snuffle matt, forcing her to find them again.
Lots of kibble and easily a 30 minute effort that she naps after.
Oh yes I've been paged. A couple years ago I made a giant one myself but it broke in the washing machine. I just splurged at got this EXTRA AF one from amazon and my dog Suki seems to really like it so far. It is the Sniffiz one!
I made mine out of a rubber sink mat and strips of fleece fabric. There's a link to the pre-made one
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N1FV55I/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_kElXDbWQ1JWSR
If you want to make one just google snuffle mat and you'll get like 15 different tutorials or videos about it!
I occasionally use one of these type of pet food mats when not working over the sink. It keeps the countertop clean and dry.
https://www.amazon.com/Mr-Peanuts-Silicone-Flexible-Protects/dp/B01EG48TZI/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1518320844&sr=8-2-spons&keywords=pet+food+mat&psc=1
Dogs need two types of exercise, physical and mental. Although what you are doing with him does have a lot of mental stimulation it's mostly physical. Spend some time every morning and evening doing some type of training, either a new trick, or reinforcing the things he already knows.
Also get toys that will keep his mind active. I feed my dog with this every evening. You could also try a Snuffle mat.
I've found that most dogs chew because they're either bored or they teething. Keeping them active both physically and mentally will help cut a lot of unwanted chewing. After that just keep consistent and when you find them chewing on something they are not supposed to chew give them something they can.
It's up to us to teach them what is or is not allowed, they eventually catch on, but sometimes it can take a bit.
I have a fat rat too. I don’t know why, because I have six others that are normal. But I just always see her eating. She’ll be eating when no one else is. So I bought this snuffle mat so she has to dig around for treats instead of just being handed them. Hope this helps!
We have something similar in bone shape. My wife bought it so I don't know the store. I found a different one on Amazon though.
https://www.amazon.com/Petrageous-Designs-Bone-Black-Bottom/dp/B003O68Z5O
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N1FV55I/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_6Mn7Bb97KF4V6
This is the one we have, wouldn’t let me copy the link directly for some reason. They have all sorts available!
Snuffle mat?
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07P55R963/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_OfGPDbMBKCNQG
A dish drying mat won't keep them from moving the bowl. I was referring to something like this that will make it more difficult for them to move, and has a reservoir that should hold the entire bowl of water if they manage to dump it.