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Dogs Loved PETA’s ‘Sniffari’ Challenge

Dogs experience the world primarily through their sense of smell. They can determine who visited a spot, what they had for lunch, how they’re feeling, and so much more through their noses! Sniffing calms dogs, relieves stress, tires them out, and releases feel-good endorphins.

Rushing dogs through walks is the human equivalent of strolling through a bakery without savoring the aroma of freshly baked bread—you’d miss one of the most enjoyable parts. That’s why PETA created the fall “Sniffari” Challenge, a nose-led adventure to encourage dog guardians to slow down and let their canine companions’ noses lead the way.

The challenge was a sniffing success, bringing joy to dogs and their families and inspiring more leisurely, mindful walks. Two Sniffari champions, Rocky and Chewy, and their grateful guardians shared their favorite parts of this unique experience.

Chewy Sniffed His Way to Contentment

Chewy’s guardian loved seeing the dog’s excitement during their daily sniff walks. The pair recently moved, and the walks provided them with an opportunity to explore their new neighborhood. Letting Chewy guide the way led to longer walks and a deeper connection to one another. His guardian noted that Chewy became more playful, energetic, and content—these sniff-led outings were not just physically enriching but also mentally stimulating, which contributed to Chewy’s cheerfulness.

“I noticed Chewy’s mood boosting throughout the month,” his guardian told us. “After long sniffing sessions, not only was he sleeping more deeply through the night, but he was also more playful with his toys and energetic throughout the day.”

Rocky Is on the Road to Recovery

Rocky’s experience was a little different. After sustaining a serious age-related knee injury earlier in the year, he wasn’t able to go on long walks. His guardians tried using a stroller but found that Rocky preferred to be on the ground. The Sniffari Challenge helped them discover a new way to enjoy the outdoors. They set the stroller aside and gave Rocky the freedom to sniff as he pleased. The family focused on spending quality time together, sitting in the grass and soaking up the smells of their surroundings. This shift in mindset led to more relaxed, meaningful walks.

“Rocky showed me what he wants our walks to look like post-injury. I’d been missing our old walks and doing my best to recreate them, but through the Sniffari Challenge, he showed me another way of doing things—a slower, more mindful way,” one of Rocky’s guardians reported.

Both families agreed that PETA’s Sniffari Challenge had strengthened their bond with their dogs. They discovered new places, shared quiet moments, and found joy in their dogs’ joy. The challenge was more than just a fun activity—it was a way for guardians to give their dogs autonomy and let them lead the way while also serving as a fundraiser to help PETA continue our important work for animals.

Other Fun Fall Activities

Here are some other fun things to consider doing for and with your canine pal this fall:

  • Bake pumpkin dog treats. Pumpkin is loaded with healthy fiber and tastes delicious, too!
  • Play a good game of fetch. Dogs love the cooler temperatures, and fall is perfect for fetching.
  • Go for a scenic hike together. Remember to stop and let them sniff.
  • Cozy up inside. All dogs deserve to live inside with their families.

Join PETA’s Next Sniffari Challenge in the Spring

Inspired by these stories? Consider joining the next Sniffari Challenge in April 2025, and find out how you can help PETA continue improving the lives of animals everywhere. Visit PETA.org/Sniffari to learn more.