What should I put on a dog licking mat? You can put many tasty and safe foods on a dog licking mat, such as plain yogurt, pumpkin puree, peanut butter (xylitol-free!), mashed banana, wet dog food, or specialized LickiMat spread ideas created just for dogs. Using a LickiMat is a fantastic way to provide dog enrichment for your pet, keeping them busy and happy.
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The Power of the Licking Mat in Dog Care
Licking mats have become very popular tools for dog owners. They offer a simple yet powerful way to engage your dog’s natural behaviors. Licking is a soothing action for dogs. It releases feel-good endorphins in their brains. This makes the mat a great tool for dog anxiety relief mat needs.
What Exactly is Dog Enrichment?
Dog enrichment means giving your dog activities that keep their mind sharp and their body active. It is about meeting their natural needs. Dogs need to sniff, chew, and problem-solve. A LickiMat ticks all these boxes. It makes mealtime or snack time last longer. This slows down fast eaters. It also keeps bored dogs busy.
How to Use a LickiMat Successfully
Knowing how to use a LickiMat is easy. First, pick a healthy, spreadable food. Next, smear a thin layer over the mat’s textured surface. You can press the food deep into the grooves for a harder challenge. Then, give it to your dog. Always watch your dog, especially the first few times. Make sure they lick the food off rather than try to chew or eat the rubber mat itself.
Top Delicious and Easy Fillers for Your LickiMat
Finding the right spread is key. You want something appealing to your dog but also healthy. Safety is the number one rule when choosing safe foods for LickiMats.
The Peanut Butter Staple (With a Big Warning)
Peanut butter is a classic favorite. Dogs love the texture and taste. However, you must check the label very carefully. Many brands contain xylitol (also called birch sugar). Xylitol is highly toxic to dogs and can be deadly. Only use natural, unsalted peanut butter that explicitly states it is xylitol-free.
- Use only a thin layer.
- It is high in fat, so use it as a treat, not a full meal.
Dairy Delights: Yogurt and Cottage Cheese
Plain, unsweetened yogurt is a wonderful base for your LickiMat. It is cool, creamy, and easy to spread.
Benefits of Yogurt:
- It contains probiotics, which are good for your dog’s gut health.
- It spreads very easily, making it great for beginners.
Make sure the yogurt has no added sugar, sweeteners, or artificial flavors. Cottage cheese also works well in moderation. It offers protein but can sometimes be a bit chunkier to spread.
Pumpkin Puree: The Versatile Favorite
Canned pumpkin puree is a superstar for dog treats. It is packed with fiber. This is great for digestive health. Important Note: Always use plain pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. Pie filling has spices like nutmeg, which are not good for dogs.
| Food Item | Texture | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Plain Yogurt | Smooth, creamy | Calming, easy first use |
| Pumpkin Puree | Thick, moist | Digestive aid, easy spreading |
| Mashed Banana | Soft, sticky | Quick treat, energy boost |
| Wet Dog Food | Varies (pâté or chunky) | Meal replacement, high reward |
Fruits and Veggies: Natural Sweetness
Many fruits and vegetables are safe and make excellent healthy toppings for dog lickers. They add natural sweetness and extra nutrients.
Great Fruit Options:
- Mashed Banana: Excellent for smearing. It is soft and your dog will enjoy the flavor.
- Applesauce: Use unsweetened applesauce. It adds moisture.
- Mashed Berries: Blueberries or strawberries are packed with antioxidants. Mash them well before spreading.
Great Vegetable Options:
- Sweet Potato: Steam or boil it until very soft, then mash well. This is a nutritious filler.
- Carrot Puree: Cooked carrots are easily digestible and sweet.
- Green Beans: Blend frozen or steamed green beans into a paste.
Incorporating Meat and Savory Flavors
For high-value rewards, you can use meat-based options. These make for fantastic long-lasting LickiMat spreads.
- Canned Wet Dog Food: If your dog eats wet food, this is the ultimate high-value treat. Use a thicker pâté style for best results.
- Bone Broth Reduction: Simmer plain, unsalted bone broth until it reduces down to a thick, gelatinous gravy. Freeze this onto the mat.
- Plain Cooked Chicken or Beef: Shred very finely or blend cooked, unseasoned meat with a little water or low-sodium broth to make a paste.
Creating Advanced LickiMat Spreads and Pastes
Once you master the basics, you can mix and match ingredients to create specialized best pastes for LickiMats. This lets you target specific needs, like relaxation or extra high value rewards.
Calming Dog Treats for Mats Blends
If you use your LickiMat for dog anxiety relief mat purposes during thunderstorms, fireworks, or vet visits, adding calming ingredients helps.
The Calming Blend Recipe Example:
- Start with a base of unsweetened Greek yogurt (high in protein).
- Mix in a spoonful of pumpkin puree.
- Add a tiny pinch of turmeric (known for anti-inflammatory properties, use sparingly).
- For an extra calming boost (if approved by your vet), some owners mix in a small amount of L-theanine powder or chamomile tea (cooled and very weak). Always check with your veterinarian before adding supplements.
High-Value Dog Puzzle Feeder Toppings
When you need your dog to focus intensely, use their absolute favorite foods. These should be richer and smell stronger.
- Liverwurst or Braunschweiger: A small amount goes a long way. These strong flavors keep dogs occupied longer.
- Commercial Dog Food Toppers: Many brands make freeze-dried raw toppers that you can mix with a little water to create a thick slurry.
- Fish Oil Drizzle (Use Sparingly): A tiny drop of dog-safe fish oil drizzled over a yogurt base adds healthy omega-3s and a scent dogs adore.
Making Frozen LickiMat Fillings
Freezing the mat adds significant enrichment time. Dogs spend much longer working to lick the frozen material.
Steps for Freezing:
- Prepare your chosen spread (like pumpkin or yogurt mixed with mashed banana).
- Smear it onto the mat.
- Place the mat on a small plate or tray.
- Freeze for at least 4–6 hours, or until solid.
Frozen treats are excellent for hot summer days or when you need extended quiet time.
Safety and Best Practices When Filling Your LickiMat
Safety must always come first. While many foods are safe, preparation matters immensely.
Avoiding Common Food Hazards
When thinking about safe foods for LickiMats, know what to absolutely avoid.
| Ingredient to AVOID | Why it is Dangerous |
|---|---|
| Xylitol | Causes rapid insulin release and liver failure in dogs. |
| Grapes/Raisins | Can cause acute kidney failure. |
| Chocolate | Contains theobromine, toxic to dogs. |
| Added Salts or Sugars | Unnecessary and potentially harmful to canine systems. |
| Onion/Garlic Powder | Can cause red blood cell damage. |
Portion Control is Crucial
LickiMats are often used for treats or as a supplement to meals. They are not usually meant to replace an entire meal, especially when using calorie-dense items like peanut butter or fatty meats.
If you use the mat for a full meal replacement (like using only their measured kibble mixed with water), remember to reduce the amount of food they get at their next scheduled feeding time. This prevents unwanted weight gain.
Choosing the Right Mat Texture
Different mats offer different challenges. Some mats have shallow grooves, while others (like the “Busy Buddy” styles) have deeper, more complex patterns.
- Beginners: Start with a shallower groove or a flat smear. This builds confidence.
- Advanced Users: Use deeper mats or fill the mat completely and freeze it. This increases the difficulty and extends the session time.
The Role of LickiMats in Behavior Management
Using these mats intentionally helps manage certain common canine behaviors. This is where the concept of a dog anxiety relief mat truly shines.
Reducing Separation Anxiety
For dogs who struggle when left alone, a high-value, frozen LickiMat given right before you leave can redirect their focus. The licking activity is self-soothing. If the treat lasts 20 minutes, those 20 minutes might be calm ones instead of frantic pacing or destructive behavior.
Post-Bath or Grooming Calm Down
Grooming can be stressful. Smearing a small amount of easy-to-lick, low-value filler (like plain yogurt) onto a wall-mounted LickiMat keeps your dog happily distracted while you finish drying or trimming nails.
Slowing Down Fast Eaters
If your dog inhales their food, transfer their normal meal kibble into the LickiMat instead of a bowl. Mix the dry kibble with a bit of warm water or low-sodium broth to create a mushy paste that can be spread. This forces them to lick and work for every bite, slowing consumption dramatically. This is a great form of dog enrichment during mealtime.
Innovative Ways to Use LickiMats Beyond Spreading
You do not always have to use the mat like a regular spread. Think outside the bowl!
The “Kibble Crunch” Method
This method is excellent for adding texture and making meals last longer.
- Prepare your dog’s regular, moistened kibble (kibble soaked in water or broth).
- Press the wet kibble firmly into the grooves of the mat.
- Do not add any extra sticky paste. The moisture from the kibble mixture will hold it in place.
- Serve immediately, or freeze for a greater challenge. This utilizes their regular food as long-lasting LickiMat spreads.
Layering for Multi-Sensory Fun
Layering different textures provides a more complex enrichment experience.
- Layer 1 (Base): A thin layer of pumpkin puree spread across the entire surface.
- Layer 2 (Center): A dollop of mashed banana or softened wet food placed right in the middle.
- Layer 3 (Topping): Sprinkle a few dog-safe, freeze-dried liver bits or tiny pieces of crumbled kibble on top before serving (or freezing).
This variety keeps the dog engaged as they work through the different flavors and textures.
Deciphering the Best LickiMat Toppings for Different Needs
The ideal topping changes based on your dog’s goal. Are you aiming for simple distraction, deep relaxation, or a high-reward training session?
For Simple Distraction (Short Sessions)
When you just need five minutes of peace, use something fast to smear and fast to eat.
- Mashed sweet potato (room temperature).
- Plain applesauce.
- A small smear of dog-safe meat baby food (check ingredients!).
For Long-Lasting Engagement (Extended Sessions)
When you need 20–45 minutes of quiet time, freezing is your best friend. The best bases for freezing are:
- Greek Yogurt mixed with a thickener like flaxseed meal.
- Pureed carrots mixed with broth and frozen.
- Peanut butter (xylitol-free) spread thin and frozen.
For Training Rewards (High Value)
If you are training recall or rewarding good behavior during stressful events, use the most irresistible options.
- Small bits of cheese (if your dog tolerates dairy well).
- Finely mashed sardines (in water, no salt added).
- A small amount of commercial lickable dog treat paste.
These highly motivating items should only be given occasionally due to their richness.
Maintaining and Cleaning Your LickiMat
A clean mat is essential for healthy feeding. If you leave old food stuck in the grooves, bacteria can grow.
Simple Cleaning Tips
Most LickiMats are dishwasher safe, but hand washing is often faster and ensures all the crevices are scrubbed clean.
- Rinse Immediately: As soon as your dog is done, rinse off the majority of the leftover food under hot water.
- Use a Brush: Use a dish brush or an old toothbrush to scrub deep into the textured patterns where food residue hides.
- Soak if Needed: If a hard, frozen treat was used, soak the mat in warm, soapy water for 10–15 minutes before scrubbing.
- Dry Completely: Always let the mat air dry fully before storing it. Storing damp rubber can sometimes lead to mold or mildew growth.
By properly caring for the mat, you ensure that every time you offer a treat, it is a safe and enjoyable experience for your dog.
Frequently Asked Questions About LickiMats
Can I use human food meant for baking on my LickiMat?
No. Avoid using any mixes or pre-made items like cake batter or cookie dough. These almost always contain high amounts of sugar, salt, or dangerous sweeteners like xylitol. Stick to whole, single-ingredient foods or verified dog-specific products.
How often can I give my dog a LickiMat treat?
This depends entirely on what you are using to fill it. If you use low-calorie fillers like plain pumpkin or yogurt, you might offer it daily. If you use high-calorie items like peanut butter or liverwurst, treat the LickiMat session like any other treat—keep it limited to about 10% of their daily caloric intake.
Are LickiMats safe for all dogs?
Yes, generally. However, supervise puppies or dogs who are excessively destructive chewers. If your dog tries to bite chunks off the mat itself instead of licking the food, you must remove the mat immediately. It is a licking toy, not a chew toy.
Can I use medication mixed into the LickiMat spread?
Some owners successfully hide crushed pills in a very sticky, potent paste (like liverwurst). Always discuss this method with your veterinarian first to ensure the medication is safe to mix with food and that your dog will consume it completely.
What is the difference between a LickiMat and a slow feeder bowl?
A slow feeder bowl raises the food and separates the kibble, forcing the dog to maneuver around obstacles. A LickiMat uses suction and texture to hold a paste or mush, forcing the dog to use their tongue extensively. LickiMats generally provide a higher level of focused dog enrichment due to the repetitive licking action.