The best scent mats for dogs

Olfactory mats for dogs are very useful

Olfactory mats for dogs are a type of toy that is most useful in dogs that are hyperactive and that, in addition to their daily walks, need an extra dose of exercise (although in this case it is mental) to calm down.

That is why Today we will talk not only about the best olfactory mats for dogs, but also how to use them, what benefits they have, where to buy them and much more. And also, if you want more, we recommend this related article about the dog feeders: we tell you everything.

The best olfactory mat for dogs

Olfactory training mat

Among the olfactory rugs for dogs available on Amazon, this one stands out, about 45 cm per side and available in several very cute colors. The design is extremely simple but no less effective: a series of strips of fabric attached to a perforated plastic base, between which prizes can be hidden. The touch of the fabric is soft and resistant and, due to its size, it is perfect for small or medium-sized dogs.

This rug fully fulfills its function, since you only have to guide your dog's snout to find the prizes and capture the operation of the game, which is ideal for him to stop eating quickly.

Soft mat with various tests

A somewhat different design from the other olfactory rugs is that of this model, which includes a soft base and several tests where to hide the prizes: pockets, sleeves, fabric rings and even a kind of flower will ensure that your dog does not get bored of this product. The fabric is similar to flannel, so it is very soft, except for the base, which is non-slip. Plus, it can be machine washed. Finally, due to its measurements (36,5 cm on the longest side) it is recommended to use it especially with small dogs.

Soft mat to relax

This anti-stress mat, very similar to the previous one, is ideal for your dog to relax, especially if he is hyperactive. It consists of different places where we can hide the prizes (rings, pockets, a kind of sleeves, ruffles and a round one made from strips of fabric) and let our pet get a lot of smell. This mental exercise will leave you tired and happy and on top of that, being based on an effort-reward exercise, it also works very well for dogs with depression.

Foldable olfactory mat

For those who are looking for a product that, in addition to being effective, is beautiful, they will find a good option in this beautiful rug. It is shaped like a flower, although, in addition to the fabric strips, we can also find other small places to hide the prizes, such as fabric rings, a butterfly with several layers or a kind of dumplings. In addition, it is foldable, so once you finish using it you can put it back very easily.

Carpet for large dogs

This mat with about 50 cm in its longest part is ideal for larger dogs, in addition, it works differently from the ones we have seen so far. It consists of a series of hairs, similar to those of a bath mat, thick and about 2 cm, in which we can hide the prizes. This product includes a storage bagIt can be put in the washing machine and includes suction cups so that it does not move, although some opinions highlight that they do not work very well.

Carpet that turns into a bowl

This interesting rug has two functions: First of all, it works like the olfactory rugs for dogs that we have been seeing, that is, the prizes are hidden between the strips of clothing so that our pet can find them. On the other hand, by means of a simple mechanism the edges of the mat go up and become a bowl that is most useful for training your dog to eat more slowly.

Flower-shaped mat

And we end up with an olfactory mat with which the dog can smell as he likes while looking for his prizes. The center is the main search place and is shaped like a flower made from strips of fabric, although there are other games around. In addition, it is foldable, so you can store it in no time. The fabric is soft and durable and is machine washable. Finally, the mat includes a couple of straps so you can tie it to furniture and it won't tip over.

What are olfactory mats?

A dog sniffing a rug

Scent mats for dogs are a type of toy that allows your pet to exercise his mind, relax and, on top of it, get a treat.

The premise of the operation of these objects is very simple: They usually consist of a kind of carpet with more or less loose strips of fabric attached to a plastic base that allows the dog to smell in search of the prizes that have been hidden in it previously. As you can see, the operation is very similar to that of the plastic mazes in which prizes are hidden and in which the dog has to think to get it.

Ultimately, how dogs interpret their surroundings through smell (which are almost a hundred thousand times more powerful than humans), such a mat is always a good idea.

What are the advantages of scent mats?

Dogs smell 100.000 times more than humans

Like any toy, scent mats for dogs have a number of advantages that will help make your dog happier and that, in general, will be very beneficial for your health, for example:

  • Firstly, allow the dog to exercise the mind without having to need large spaces.
  • The fact of exercising the mind by itself already has several benefits, for example, a improved health, stress reduction, relaxation by the dog and prevention of boredom.
  • At the same time, smelling activity is very pleasant for dogs.
  • Finally, such a rug helps the dog eat more slowly, since he has to look for his food before gobbling it up.

The calming function of scent mats

Rewards can be hidden in scent mats for dogs

We have seen the benefits of scent mats for dogs, although it is worth dwelling on one of its main benefits: the calming function of these toys.

In general (as you should know, there are dogs for everything) the main function of the mat is to provide mental exercise to your pet, which, rebound, helps to calm it. Thus, the mat will stimulate your dog's smell, which after enjoying the stimulus for as long as it takes (and finding several rewards) will feel more relaxed, less stressed and happier.

All this not only helps the dog feel better about himself and the world around him (It is about exercising the classic effort-reward), but also helps to avoid destructive behaviors, such as biting and scratching furniture or human rugs. These products can also be very helpful with hyperactive dogs, who need more than their daily walks to use up their energy.

Tips for the use of olfactory mats

Mental exercise is very good for your health

Now, We will give you some tips that may be of help to youEspecially if it's your first time using one of these toys:

  • Although each product is a world, most doggie rugs are machine washable on a gentle program, and tumble dry or air dry. Shake it first to remove any remaining prizes and crumbs. Also, look at the product label to make sure how it should be stored.
  • Never let your dog use a mat without your supervisionas you could harm yourself or swallow a small or nibbled part.
  • Remove them from your sight when they are not using them. This way they will associate it with a special occasion and will have more desire to play.
  • You can put awards, but also other elements that you know that will suit him (like some herbs). Make sure they are not toxic.

Where to buy scent mats for dogs

Scent mats help relax your dog

There are many places, some very unexpected, where you can find scent mats for dogs. For example: uterine

  • En Amazon you will find a lot of different models, each with its own color, function and characteristics. If you have contracted their Prime function, in addition, they bring it to your home in nothing.
  • En specialized stores like Zooplus or TiendaAnimal they also have very interesting options. The good thing about these options is that you can go to the store in person to see what the size, the material is like ... and even ask the shop assistants which option is best for you and your pet.
  • Finally, in webs of handmade thingsLike Etsy, you will also find a ton of different options. In some cases they are fully customizable, so you can choose the colors, material or shape that you like the most.

Scent mats for dogs are a toy that works wonders to calm and mentally train our dog. Tell us, have you tried any of these rugs? It has worked? Do you have any tricks when using them?


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