How to Introduce Snuffle Toys to Your Dog: A Step-by-Step Guide
Why Use Snuffle Toys for Your Dog?
Dogs naturally love to sniff and forage. Snuffle toys tap into this instinct, providing mental enrichment and slowing down fast eaters. Using a snuffle toy regularly helps reduce destructive behavior caused by boredom or anxiety. If you're new to dog enrichment toys, snuffle toys are a great place to start!
Step 1: Choose the Right Snuffle Toy
Selecting a toy that matches your dog’s size and skill level is essential. Beginners can start with simpler designs like our Happy Lunch Time snuffle book (Level 1). More experienced sniffers might enjoy toys with more hidden treat pockets, such as My Lunch Basket or Scouts (Level 2).
Step 2: Introduce the Toy with High-Value Treats
Begin by hiding easy-to-find treats in the toy's pockets or folds. Let your dog see you placing the treats initially, so they understand the toy contains rewards. Use small, smelly treats to encourage sniffing and investigation.
Step 3: Encourage Exploration and Praise
Allow your dog to explore the toy at their own pace. Give plenty of positive reinforcement with verbal praise or petting when they find a treat. Avoid forcing your dog or showing frustration if they don’t get it immediately.
Step 4: Gradually Increase Difficulty
As your dog becomes more confident, hide treats deeper in folds or inside harder-to-open compartments. This increases mental stimulation and keeps playtime engaging. Rotate toys or add new snuffle puzzles to maintain interest.
Step 5: Use Snuffle Toys Regularly
To maximize benefits, incorporate snuffle toys into daily or weekly routines. These toys are ideal for solo play, crate time, or to slow down mealtime. Consistent use can improve focus, reduce anxiety, and keep your dog happily occupied.
Bonus Tips for Successful Snuffle Toy Play
- Always supervise your dog when introducing new toys.
- Clean your snuffle toys regularly to maintain hygiene.
- If your dog loses interest, try changing the treats or switching toy locations.
- Combine snuffle toy sessions with training commands for extra engagement.
Recommended Snuffle Toys for Beginners and Beyond
- Happy Lunch Time (Level 1) – Perfect for dogs new to enrichment toys.
- My Lunch Basket (Level 2) – More pockets and folds for intermediate sniffers.
- Scouts (Level 2) – Adventure-themed with zippers and multi-step challenges.
- My Universe Book (Level 2) – Space-themed with layered, textured sniffing fun.
Shop Our Snuffle Toy Collection
Join the Conversation!
Have you tried snuffle toys with your dog? Share your experience in the comments below or tag us on Instagram @crazytailpets — we love seeing your pups explore and play!