606 Words in this article about snuffle mats for small dogs. 3 minute read.

Is your small dog a fussy eater? If you read our article from last year (Best Snuffle Mats for Small Dogs), you know how we cured our small dogs’ picky eating: the fleece Nosework Snuffle Mat. It transformed breakfast for Phoebe and Scout, completely eliminating their fussy attitude toward food and making mealtime a mentally stimulating activity. Just when I thought I wouldn’t find another snuffle mat the girls would enjoy as much, I stumbled upon a new favorite that has quickly become a staple in our morning routine.

I confess I purchased it initially because it would be quicker to fill than the large fleece nosework mats we still love.

• This new snuffle mat is a bit smaller, measuring just 14 x 14 x 3 inches, which makes it incredibly easy to store. Despite its small size, the mat(s) provides ample space for Phoebe and Scout to forage and engage with their breakfast.
• It’s just really cute. My husband and I smile every morning at what we call the “carrot crime scene,” as the girls each leave their 24 carrots strewn haphazardly around the room.
• The carrots themselves serve as a fun toy, and I’ve caught the girls on camera, throwing them around the room while we’re away at work.
• The mats had a short learning curve, though Phoebe did need some mat-etiquette refreshing. Initially, she lifted the entire foam block and hurled it as far as she could. Or, she’d turn the mat upside down and dump everything out. It didn’t take long for her to learn however, that we expected her to remove the carrots with her mouth in a ladylike fashion rather than thrashing the poor thing to death.
• I love switching up where I put their extra treat surprises. The puzzle contains a dozen carrot holes, and I always include seven or eight pieces of cheese or baby carrots. They always sniff those out and eat their regular food last.
• It’s not inexpensive, but on the other hand, it’s not outrageous, especially given the quality of the toy. I’ve had this small dog snuffle mat since the beginning of May, and it still looks brand new. I simply shake it outside and wipe it down with a damp cloth before putting it away. Easy.

Things we don’t like as much

• I haven’t yet washed this, and I worry it won’t be as easy to put back together as our tried and true blue and white large snuffle mat. It’s necessary to unzip and remove the cover and then reposition the deep fabric holes back over the foam once it’s washed. I anticipate that being a bit of a pain. However, it will be worth it. The girls truly love this puzzle.
• I don’t have this problem, but if you have a dog who destroys toys, you’ll have to pick be home to pick up the carrots right away. They wouldn’t survive 30 seconds with a pup who seeks and destroys any stuffy.

Bottom line? If you want to mix things up for your pup, a snuffle mat is definitely the way to go. Read the research in my previous article) and, this is our new favorite.