What should you put in a dog lick mat? You can put many soft, spreadable, and safe foods in a dog lick mat. Good choices include plain yogurt, pumpkin puree, canned dog food, soaked kibble paste, or specific dog treat recipes for lick mats. Lick mats are great tools to keep your dog busy and calm. They help reduce stress and boredom. The key is choosing something healthy and easy for your dog to lick off the mat.
The Joy of Lick Mats: Why Use Them?
Lick mats are simple rubber or silicone mats with lots of nooks and crannies. When you smear soft food onto them, your dog has to work to get every last bit. This licking action is very soothing for dogs. It releases happy chemicals in their brains. This is why they are popular tools for easy dog lick mat fillers and relaxation.
Calming Effects and Mental Enrichment
Dogs lick for many reasons. It can mean they are anxious or just bored. Licking takes time. A five-minute licking session can feel like a long, relaxing activity for a dog. This mental work tires them out in a good way. It is a great way to keep them busy when you are cooking or stepping out briefly.
Slowing Down Fast Eaters
Lick mats also double as slow feeders. If your dog eats too fast, putting their meal on a lick mat forces them to take small licks. This helps with digestion and prevents gulping air, which can cause bloating.
Choosing the Right Texture and Safety
The best fillings are smooth or paste-like. They need to stick in the grooves of the mat. Always check that the food you choose is safe for dogs. Many human foods are harmful.
Food Safety First
Never put anything with xylitol (a sweetener often found in peanut butter) on the mat. Also, avoid grapes, raisins, chocolate, onions, and garlic. When in a doubt, stick to plain, dog-safe options.
Texture Matters
Too runny, and the food just falls off. Too thick, and it’s hard for the dog to get it out. You want something spreadable, like thick applesauce or yogurt.
Top Picks: Best Spreads for Dog Lick Mats
Many owners look for the best spreads for dog lick mats. The options are vast, but some rise to the top for nutrition and appeal.
Plain Yogurt: A Cool Classic
Plain, unsweetened yogurt is a fantastic base. It is full of probiotics, which are good for your dog’s gut health.
- Pro Tip: Always use plain, full-fat yogurt. Avoid flavored yogurts or those with added sugars or artificial sweeteners.
Pumpkin Puree: Digestive Powerhouse
Canned pumpkin puree (make sure it is NOT pumpkin pie filling) is excellent. It is high in fiber and helps regulate digestion. Many natural dog food toppers for mats include pumpkin.
Canned Dog Food: Mealtime Fun
High-quality canned dog food works well, especially for dogs who prefer savory tastes. You can use their regular meal on the mat. This turns dinner time into a fun puzzle.
Peanut Butter (The Safe Kind)
Peanut butter is a classic, but you must be extremely careful. Only use peanut butter that explicitly states it is Xylitol-free. Xylitol is deadly to dogs, even in small amounts. Look for natural brands with only peanuts and maybe salt.
Healthy Toppings for Slow Feeder Mats
To boost the nutrition, you can mix in healthy extras. These additions turn a simple spread into a superfood treat. These are great healthy toppings for slow feeder mats.
Cottage Cheese
Mild cottage cheese provides protein and calcium. Mix it with a tiny bit of pureed carrot for extra color and vitamins.
Unsweetened Applesauce
Applesauce, without any added sugar, is a sweet treat dogs love. It adds moisture and natural sweetness.
Mashed Banana
Bananas are packed with potassium. Mash a small piece very well before spreading it thinly on the mat. Use sparingly due to the sugar content.
Delicious Dog Treat Recipes for Lick Mats
If you want to move beyond simple spreads, try these simple dog treat recipes for lick mats. They are easy to make ahead of time.
Recipe 1: Peanut Butter & Banana Delight
This recipe uses the safe peanut butter alternative idea.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup Xylitol-free peanut butter
- 1/2 small ripe banana, mashed well
- 1 tablespoon water (to thin slightly if needed)
Method:
- Mix the peanut butter and mashed banana until smooth.
- If the mixture is too stiff to spread easily, add a tiny bit of water.
- Spread thinly on the lick mat.
Recipe 2: Veggie Power Paste
This is great for dogs who need more fiber or need to watch their fat intake. These are vegetables safe for dog lick mats.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons sweet potato puree (cooked and cooled)
- 1 tablespoon finely grated carrot
Method:
- Combine the yogurt and sweet potato puree.
- Stir in the grated carrot for texture.
- Spread onto the mat.
Recipe 3: Kibble Softener Treat
This uses your dog’s regular food to create a new texture.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup dry dog kibble
- Enough warm water or low-sodium chicken broth to cover
- 1 teaspoon plain gelatin (optional, for setting)
Method:
- Soak the kibble in the warm liquid for about 30 minutes. The kibble should become very soft.
- Mash the softened kibble with a fork until it forms a thick paste.
- If using gelatin, mix it into the warm liquid before adding the kibble, then chill slightly to set.
- Spread the paste thickly onto the mat.
Navigating Peanut Butter Alternatives for Dogs
For owners concerned about the risk of xylitol or just wanting variety, knowing peanut butter alternatives for dogs is vital.
| Alternative Spread | Best Uses | Key Benefit | Caution |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pumpkin Puree | Digestion aid, base for savory mixes | High in fiber | Use plain puree only |
| Plain Greek Yogurt | Great for freezing, cooling treat | Probiotics, high protein | Must be unsweetened |
| Hummus (Dog-Safe) | Savory, thick texture | Good flavor appeal | Must be homemade without onion/garlic/salt |
| Sunflower Seed Butter | Good for dogs with nut allergies | Nut-free alternative | Check ingredients for xylitol (rare but possible) |
Fruit and Vegetable Options
Many fruits and vegetables make excellent, low-calorie treats. They should always be pureed or mashed well to prevent choking hazards, especially for small dogs. These work well as fruit purees for dog lick mats or savory veggie mixes.
Safe Fruits
- Blueberries: High in antioxidants. Mash them completely.
- Watermelon (seedless and rind removed): Hydrating and sweet.
- Strawberries: A favorite for many dogs.
Safe Vegetables
- Carrots: Cooked until soft and then pureed.
- Green Beans: Steamed and mashed until smooth.
- Beets: Cooked beets offer a deep color and nutrients.
Important Note: Always introduce new foods slowly. Even safe items can cause stomach upset if given in large amounts suddenly.
The Raw Food Debate: Raw Food for Dog Lick Mats
Some owners feed their dogs a raw diet. Using raw food for dog lick mats is possible, but requires extreme caution regarding hygiene and storage.
If you use raw food, treat the lick mat like any other raw feeding surface.
- Cleanliness: Sanitize the mat immediately after use with hot, soapy water or a pet-safe disinfectant.
- Temperature: Raw food should be served cold or slightly thawed, never left at room temperature for long periods.
- Type: Use approved raw meat mixes or plain ground meat that is safe for your dog’s diet plan.
Because of the handling required, many vets recommend sticking to cooked or processed dog-safe ingredients for enrichment toys like lick mats.
Cooking and Freezing for Long-Lasting Fun
Lick mats are most enjoyable when the contents are cold. Freezing makes the licking session last much longer, which is perfect for high-energy dogs.
Freezing Yogurt Treats
Frozen yogurt for dog lick mats is one of the most popular frozen options.
- Mix plain yogurt with a small amount of mashed banana or finely pureed berries.
- Spread the mixture onto the mat.
- Place the mat flat in the freezer for at least 3–4 hours, or until solid.
Broth Cubes
Use low-sodium chicken or beef broth. Pour it into an ice cube tray, and once frozen, you can pop one cube onto the mat, or you can melt it slightly and use it as a drizzle. This is a great, low-calorie topper.
Sweet Potato Pops
Cook sweet potatoes until very soft. Mash them thoroughly. Spread a thin layer on the mat and freeze. This creates a firm, healthy, sweet “pop.”
Incorporating Natural Dog Food Toppers for Mats
Beyond basic spreads, using specific natural dog food toppers for mats can enhance flavor and nutrition without adding unwanted extras.
Nutritional Yeast
A small sprinkle of nutritional yeast adds a cheesy, savory flavor that many dogs adore. It is rich in B vitamins. Use it sparingly as a dusting over a yogurt base.
Ground Flaxseed or Chia Seeds
These seeds are high in Omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for skin and coat health. Sprinkle a tiny amount onto a wet base (like pumpkin) so they stick.
Dried Herb Sprinkles
Dried parsley can help freshen breath slightly. Always ensure the herb is used in tiny quantities and is safe for dogs.
Deciphering Portion Sizes on the Lick Mat
It is easy to overfeed when using lick mats because they are so enjoyable. Remember that whatever you put on the mat is part of your dog’s daily caloric intake.
- As a Snack: If using the mat between meals, keep the filling light—a thin layer of yogurt or a tablespoon of pumpkin.
- As a Meal Replacement: If you are using your dog’s regular meal, ensure the amount spread on the mat equals one portion of their daily feed.
If you are using high-calorie items like peanut butter, use them in moderation. A thin smear is usually enough for a 10–15 minute session.
Troubleshooting Common Lick Mat Issues
Sometimes, dogs don’t take to the mat right away, or the filling doesn’t stick well.
My Dog Ignores the Mat
If your dog walks away, the texture might be wrong, or the smell might not be appealing enough yet.
- Increase Appeal: Try stronger-smelling options first, like plain canned food or a tiny bit of safe, strong-smelling cheese mixed into yogurt.
- Location: Place the mat somewhere quiet and safe where they feel secure while eating.
The Food Slides Off
If the filling is too thin, it will run out of the grooves quickly.
- Thicken It Up: Add a thickening agent like a teaspoon of rolled oats (blended into a powder), a bit more pumpkin, or use a frozen option.
- Press It In: Use the back of a spoon or a spatula to physically press the spread deep into the mat’s patterns.
My Dog Finishes Too Fast
If your dog finishes in under two minutes, the mat might be too small, or the filling too easy to access.
- Use a Textured Mat: Switch to a mat with deeper, more complex patterns.
- Freeze It: Freezing the filling is the ultimate time-extender.
Comparing Lick Mat Fillings: A Quick Guide
This table helps compare popular choices based on ease and health benefits.
| Filling Type | Ease of Use (Prep) | Health Focus | Freezing Potential | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plain Yogurt | Very Easy | Gut Health (Probiotics) | Excellent | Quick treats, cooling |
| Pumpkin Puree | Very Easy | Digestion (Fiber) | Good | Everyday use |
| Soaked Kibble Paste | Medium | Uses existing diet | Good | Budget-friendly |
| Raw Food | Hard (Hygiene Risk) | Natural Diet Adherence | Fair | Raw feeders only |
| Banana Mash | Easy | Potassium/Sweetness | Fair | Small portions only |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Lick Mat Fillings
Can I use baby food in a dog lick mat?
Yes, if the baby food is pureed fruit or vegetable only. Check the label carefully. Avoid any baby food containing onion powder, garlic, or fruit juice with added sugars. Plain sweet potato or carrot baby food is usually safe.
How often can I give my dog a lick mat treat?
Lick mats are best used as enrichment tools, not primary sources of nutrition. Most dogs benefit from one session (10–20 minutes long) per day. If using it for anxiety relief during stressful events (like thunderstorms), you can use it more often, provided the serving size is small.
Can I use gravy or bone broth as a filling?
Yes, low-sodium bone broth or plain, low-salt gravy makes a wonderful, savory, and hydrating option. Pour it onto the mat and freeze it solid for a long-lasting, healthy “ice block” treat.
Are dog-safe peanut butter alternatives truly safe?
They are safe, provided you verify the ingredients list. For example, sunflower seed butter is a great option for dogs allergic to peanuts, but always double-check that it was not processed on equipment that handles xylitol-containing products, and ensure no xylitol was added during manufacturing.
What is the best way to clean the lick mat after using raw food?
If you use raw food for dog lick mats, clean immediately. Use a dedicated scrubbing brush with hot, soapy water. For extra peace of mind, you can occasionally soak the mat in a diluted white vinegar solution or a veterinary-approved enzyme cleaner designed for pet messes before a final rinse.