23 Jul Dollar Tree DIY Crisscross Snuffle Dog Toy

Around here, we just adore those soft sniffy, snuffle toys for pups. And although we’ve made some interactive snuffle dog mats, baskets and toys before, there’s always room for one more! 

Best part is that one quick trip to your favorite Dollar Tree store to pick up two dollars worth of supplies – and you’re ready to create another fun and engaging dog puzzle your playful pupper will love.

You’ll need…

1 miniature wire storage basket 

1 baby fleece blanket

A sharp pair of scissors 

Dry treats or kibbles only (wet food is a no-no, to avoid a mess and mold)

Step 1

Cut about a dozen or more short strips of fleece that are about 4 inches long and 1 inch wide. Push both ends of fleece into adjacent holes in the bottom of the basket, flip the basket over and tie a simple knot to secure it in place. Continue tying your little fleece strips in a scattered pattern around the bottom of the basket, so they look like fuzzy blades of grass. 

As you can see, the bottom of the basket doesn’t have to be completely filled with fleece – basically these pieces of fleece are to help prevent treats from falling through the basket and they’re creating extra places for the treats to hide.

Step 2

Cut more of the fleece blanket into 1 inch wide strips that are about 2-3 inches longer than the size of your basket. The more strips you use, the more challenging the puzzle. 

Oh, and if you find this step a little difficult, don’t be afraid to ask your pup for help. Supervisors of the fuzzy kind are always a welcome asset to any craft!

Step 3

Fit one end of a fleece strip in and out through two holes in the basket (that’s about halfway up the side) and tie a knot to secure it. Pull the strip across the basket to the other side and tie a knot with the second end. Continue tying fleece strips across the basket in the same direction until it’s covered.

Step 4

Next, use the same technique with your remaining fleece, but this time tie them a little higher up on the basket in the opposite direction. Fill the basket with this layer of fleece until the basket is covered.

Step 5

Toss in your dog’s favorite dry food kibbles or small treats and let the fun begin!

It’s important to supervise your dog’s play closely when using the dog snuffle toy. Dogs left alone with the basket could chew bits of the fleece strips off and possibly swallow them…which could be quite harmful. 

Once playtime is over, take the toy outside and give it a thorough shake to remove any remaining food bits. For cleaning, hand wash with soap and water. Fluff up the fleece and let it air dry.

This little container of fluff floppy goodness is such a fun way to give your dog his food or treats, while providing a brain stimulating activity. Your pup will love searching for all the hidden treasures!

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Don’t forget to share your pictures with us below or on Facebook. We always love seeing what you make for your furry best friends!

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