what to put on dog lick mat

What to Put on Dog Lick Mat? | Best Safe & Healthy Options

ByDr. Michael

Table of Contents

Introduction

If you’re a pet parent looking to keep your dog calm, entertained, or mentally stimulated, you’ve likely heard of lick mats. These textured silicone mats are designed to hold soft foods and encourage dogs to lick them clean, offering both enrichment and anxiety relief. But many owners ask, “What should I put on my dog’s lick mat?” In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best (and worst) options to spread on a dog lick mat, along with tips and ideas to keep things fun, safe, and healthy.

Benefits of Lick Mats for Dogs

Lick mats offer more than just entertainment—they provide real benefits for your dog’s mental and physical health:

  • Calming effect: Licking releases endorphins that help reduce anxiety and stress.
  • Slows down eating: Useful for dogs that eat too quickly.
  • Mental stimulation: Engages your dog’s brain and keeps boredom at bay.
  • Distraction tool: Ideal for grooming, nail trimming, or bath time.
  • Promotes oral health: Helps clean the tongue and produce saliva for better digestion.

Best Foods to Put on Dog Lick Mats

When choosing what to put on your dog’s lick mat, opt for soft, spreadable, and dog-safe ingredients. Here are some of the best options:

  • Peanut butter: Use unsweetened, xylitol-free peanut butter.
  • Plain Greek yogurt: Great source of probiotics and protein.
  • Mashed banana: Naturally sweet and full of potassium.
  • Pureed pumpkin: High in fiber and good for digestion.
  • Wet dog food: Adds variety and flavor from their regular diet.
  • Cottage cheese: A light, low-fat protein option.
  • Bone broth: Freeze onto the mat for a longer-lasting treat.
  • Sweet potato mash: Rich in vitamins and easy to digest.
  • Applesauce (unsweetened): A sweet and safe occasional treat.

Creative Lick Mat Recipes and Combos

Want to keep things interesting? Try mixing ingredients for unique combinations:

  • Banana + Peanut Butter: A classic combo that most dogs love.
  • Yogurt + Blueberries: Freeze for a cooling summer treat.
  • Pumpkin + Ground Turkey: Adds protein and flavor.
  • Wet Dog Food + Carrot Puree: Savory and satisfying.
  • Cottage Cheese + Mashed Berries: A tangy twist dogs will enjoy.

Freezing the mat with these mixtures can extend the licking time and make it more engaging.

Foods to Avoid on a Lick Mat

Not all human foods are safe for dogs. Here are common ingredients to avoid:

  • Xylitol: A sugar substitute that is highly toxic to dogs.
  • Chocolate: Dangerous even in small amounts.
  • Grapes and raisins: Can cause kidney failure.
  • Onions and garlic: Toxic to dogs’ red blood cells.
  • High-fat dairy: Can cause gastrointestinal upset.
  • Spicy foods: Irritate your dog’s digestive tract.

Always read ingredient labels and consult your veterinarian if you’re unsure about a particular food.

How to Use a Lick Mat Effectively

Here are some best practices for using a lick mat:

  • Introduce slowly: Start with a favorite treat to create positive associations.
  • Supervise initially: Ensure your dog doesn’t chew or destroy the mat.
  • Freeze for longer use: Spread the treat, freeze it, and serve for extended licking sessions.
  • Use during stressful situations: Ideal during vet visits or fireworks.
  • Keep it clean: Wash the mat thoroughly after each use to prevent bacteria buildup.

Cleaning and Maintenance Tips

Lick mats are generally easy to clean, especially if you do so promptly after use. Tips include:

  • Use warm water and pet-safe soap
  • Scrub with a soft brush to reach all grooves
  • Dishwasher-safe mats make cleanup easier (check packaging)
  • Sanitize regularly if using raw ingredients

Conclusion

So, what can you put on a dog lick mat? The options are wide-ranging, as long as you focus on safe, dog-friendly ingredients. Whether you’re using peanut butter, pumpkin puree, or a mix of creative combos, a lick mat can be a powerful tool for enrichment, anxiety relief, and overall well-being. Keep it fun, clean, and safe—and your pup will thank you every time you bring it out!

Want more dog enrichment tips and healthy recipes? Explore our blog for expert advice and pawsome ideas!

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