If you’re not using Lick Mats as part of your dog’s routine, you’re seriously missing out! Lick Mats are a cheap and easy way to add enrichment to your dog’s daily routine. Read on to find out why Lick Mats are so beneficial and our top 10 Lick Mat Topping suggestions!
What is a Lick Mat
A Lick Mat is a grooved mat that encourages the act of licking. Usually made of rubber or silicone, lick mats come in a variety of patterns and textured surfaces that create a grazing maze. These textures and patterns help trap food so that your dog has to actively licks at their meal or treat, as opposed to the normally inhaling it as fast as they can.
Lick Mat benefits
Using a lick mat encourages your dog to lick, which releases pleasure endorphins in your dog’s brain. These endorphins can help calm dogs down in stressful situations. As well as this, Lick mats can:
- Alleviate stress
- Provide mental stimulation (ideal for dogs that can’t exercise much)
- Can be great calming/ positive reinforcing tool for activities like nail trimmings and baths
- Encourage your dog to eat slower
10 Lick Mat topping ideas
The great thing about lick mats is that you can make them as simple or as complex as you like. Choose a single topping from the list below or mix and match to create your own gourmet doggie recipe. Some of these toppings can also be frozen to make them extra challenging/long lasting for your dog!
- Wet/raw dog food
- Peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol free)
- Plain Greek yoghurt with fruit toppings
- Mashed banana
- Veggie puree
- Fruit purees
- Meat broth
- Cottage cheese
- Mashed sweet potato
- Canned fish like Tuna or Salmon
Most Lick Mats are dishwasher safe so once your pup is finished with their tasty treat, you can wash it in the dishwasher and it’s ready to go for their next meal!
What does your dog enjoy on their Lick Mat? Let us know by sending an email to PawfitPals@Pawfit.com or by sending us a DM on social.
