We all need to keep our doggies busy when we are trying to work from home or when we need to go out for a period of time. Using a snuffle ball for your dog can provide numerous benefits, both mental and physical.
Here are some of the key advantages of using a snuffle ball:
1. Mental Stimulation: Snuffle balls are designed to engage your dog's brain. Searching for treats hidden inside the ball can help keep your dog mentally stimulated and prevent boredom.
2. Natural Foraging Behavior: Snuffle balls mimic the natural foraging behavior of dogs. This can be especially beneficial for dogs that are highly food-motivated or have a strong instinct to hunt and search.
Slow your dogs eating down.
3. Slower Eating: If your dog tends to eat too quickly, using a snuffle ball can slow down their eating pace. This can help prevent digestive issues and reduce the risk of choking.
4. Stress Relief: The act of sniffing and foraging can have a calming effect on dogs. It can be a great way to reduce anxiety and stress, especially in dogs that are prone to nervousness or hyperactivity.
5. Physical Exercise: While primarily a mental workout, using a snuffle ball can also provide a moderate amount of physical activity, as your dog will need to move around and manipulate the ball to find the treats.
Entertain your dog.
6. Entertainment: Snuffle balls can keep your dog entertained for a longer period compared to simply giving them treats. This can be particularly useful when you need to keep your dog occupied, such as during mealtimes or when you have guests.
7. Bonding Opportunity: Playing with a snuffle ball together can enhance the bond between you and your dog. It's an interactive activity that you can both enjoy.
8. Training Aid: Snuffle balls can be used as a training tool to reinforce good behavior. Rewarding your dog with treats hidden in the ball can be an effective way to encourage obedience and focus.
9. Suitable for All Ages and Sizes: Snuffle balls can be used by dogs of all ages and sizes, making them a versatile toy. They are especially beneficial for older dogs that may not be as active but still need mental stimulation.
What do I fill my snuffle ball with?
Our dogs love their snuffle ball and keeps them occupied because they love what we fill it with. I know they are a little time consuming to fill, so, I sit in front of a good film and cut up 2 natural sausage stick into tiny pieces. Each sausage stick gives me approximately 40 little pieces. I then cut up some little fruity treats & cheese treats we sell at our markets in Ampthill, Berkhamsted, Woburn & Olney. Order your sausage sticks online Here.
How to fill your snuffle ball with treats.
Unwind all of your fleece rolls and pop one two or three little pieces of treats into each and roll back up, it's that easy. I also plait a few strips and push in a few treats, or plait around a low chew such as a beef skin.
How to wash your snuffle ball.
I pop my snuffle ball into a washing bag or pillow case and wash in my washing machine on a quick wash at a low temperature using white vinegar.
Overall, a snuffle ball can be a valuable addition to your dog's toy collection, providing numerous benefits that contribute to their overall well-being.
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