What if there was a product that offered a way to soothe, entertain, and enrich your dog? Lick mats meet many of your dog’s needs, from reducing separation anxiety to supporting dental health. Many dog owners rely on these mats because they’re durable, easy to clean, and versatile.
Benefits of Lick Mats for Dogs
Having a lick mat as part of your dog enrichment activities is a must. These mats offer numerous benefits for dogs’ well-being. For instance, a lick mat filled with frozen chicken broth can calm an anxious dog during fireworks or thunderstorms. It can also provide a few peaceful moments for you when dealing with an energetic puppy.
Lick mats can also:
- Promote dental health: The grooves and ridges on a lick mat help scrape away residue on your dog’s teeth, supporting dental health and helping to prevent dental disease. While they aren’t a substitute for brushing, lick mats can be part of a balanced dental routine.
- Create positive associations: Crate training offers many benefits, providing dogs a safe space to retreat and rest. Using lick mats coated with treats can create a positive association with the crate, making training smoother.
- Slow down eating: Some lick mats function as slow feeders, preventing dogs from eating too quickly. This can reduce the risk of bloat (gastric dilation-volvulus), which can result from rapid eating and drinking.
Lick mats are also a fun and simple form of entertainment for both dog and owner. You get the satisfaction of preparing a special treat for your dog, and they enjoy the challenge and pleasure of finishing it.
How to Clean and Maintain Lick Mats
One of the best features of lick mats is their ease of cleaning. Unlike hollow rubber toys that require extra effort to clean the inside, lick mats are flat with fewer nooks where food can get stuck and mold can grow.
Some dog owners recommend boiling lick mats in hot water for a deep clean, but always check the product description first, as this could potentially warp or melt the material. Generally, washing lick mats with soap and warm water is effective, especially for mats made of natural rubber. Some lick mats, especially those made of food-grade silicone, are dishwasher-safe, so you can simply place them in with your dishes for a quick and thorough clean.
Different Features of Lick Mats Offer Different Benefits
When choosing a lick mat for your dog, you’ll find a range of designs that offer unique benefits. For example:
- Suction cups can securely fasten the lick mat to smooth surfaces, like bathtubs or sinks. Smearing your dog’s favorite treat on a suction-cup lick mat can make grooming, such as trimming fur or cleaning ears, easier.
- Multi-textured designs allow for variety, with some lick mats divided into sections with different patterns or textures. For example, you could spread peanut butter over a ridged section and pour dry kibble into a maze-like area.
- Non-slip grips keep the mat steady, allowing you to add liquids without worrying about spills.
- Lids for travel make some lick mats perfect for on-the-go use by sealing in freshness and making the toy portable.
- Spreaders can make applying treats to the mat easier and neater.
Foods and Treats Ideal for Lick Mats
The possibilities for lick mat treats are as broad as your creativity—just ensure that everything is safe for dogs. Many owners use peanut butter, but be cautious to avoid varieties containing xylitol, an artificial sweetener toxic to dogs. Moderation is also key, as some peanut butters contain sugars and oils that can lead to weight gain.
Here are some popular options for lick mat treats:
- Plain, unsweetened yogurt is a great source of probiotics for digestive health. As with peanut butter, avoid any added sugars or artificial flavors.
- Honey offers a nutrient boost with vitamins A, B, C, D, and E, and may help build resistance to local allergens through gradual exposure to pollen.
- Frozen broth (low-sodium chicken, beef, or vegetable) makes a refreshing, hydrating treat when poured onto the mat and frozen.
Tips for Prepping and Providing Lick Mats for Your Dog
While lick mats are fantastic for enrichment, they’re best used under supervision. The label “food-grade” means these items are safe for food contact but are not intended for consumption. By keeping an eye on your dog, you can step in if they try to chew or destroy the mat. Here are additional tips for choosing, using, and caring for lick mats:
- Choose Food-Grade Mats
Not all lick mats on the market are food-grade. Non-food-grade mats might leach dyes, chemicals, or toxins into your dog’s food. Check the product label to confirm it’s safe for use with dog treats. - Clean After Every Use
Even if a lick mat appears clean, it’s essential to wash it after each use with warm, soapy water. This helps prevent mold and bacteria buildup. - Monitor for Wear and Tear
Check lick mats regularly for signs of wear, like eroding material, punctures, or sharp edges. Replace any degraded mats to avoid health risks. - Use for Distraction During Challenging Moments
Lick mats can serve as a distraction for dogs in stressful situations. Anxious dogs might find it calming during bath time, and teething puppies may enjoy a lick mat with a dab of wet food as a safe alternative to chewing on furniture.
Lick mats offer benefits for every dog and owner, from promoting calm to providing safe entertainment. For Canine Kennel Club (CKC) members and dog enthusiasts, these tools are a great way to support a dog's emotional and physical well-being with just a little maintenance.