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Read More December 18, 2023 | Blain's Farm & FleetEasy and Healthy Dog Lick Mat Ideas
Keep your pup entertained with these dog lick mat ideas!
If you’re looking for a fun and stimulating way to keep your dog entertained, a lick mat is just the thing you need! Not only are lick mats fun for dogs, but they also provide mental enrichment, slow down eating, and can even help with anxiety.
Another great thing about lick mats is the variety of different toppings you can use. Whether you’re using a lick mat for the first time or are just looking for some new topping ideas, this guide from Blain’s Farm & Fleet has you covered.
Benefits of Lick Mats
A lick mat is a flat, textured mat that holds food. The grooves slow down your dog’s eating, keeping them engaged. Lick mats are an excellent tool for several reasons. Here’s how your dog can benefit:
- Mental Stimulation: Lick mats encourage your dog to work for their food, which occupies their attention and keeps them engaged for long periods.
- Anxiety Relief: Repetitive licking can have a calming effect on dogs. This makes lick mats ideal for relaxing them during stressful situations like thunderstorms, fireworks, bath time, or vet visits.
- Slower Eating: If your dog is a fast eater, a lick mat will force them to slow down. This can reduce the risk of indigestion and choking.
- Dental Health: Licking can help remove bacteria on your dog’s tongue, reducing bad breath.
Shop Lick Mats
Pet Zone Boredom Busterz Indulge XL Mat
Price: $12.99
West Paw Waves Feast Mat, Purple
Price: $27.99
PetZone Boredom Busterz Delight Licking Mat
Price: $0.44
Lick Mat Topping Ideas
There are many topping options when it comes to lick mats. Use smoother, spreadable ingredients as your bases, and stick everything else on top. Here are some different lick mat ideas to get you started:
Proteins
- Peanut Butter: Make sure it’s unsalted, xylitol-free, and sugar-free.
- Shredded Chicken or Turkey: Make sure these are cooked first.
- Plain Greek Yogurt: A perfect base.
- Canned Tuna or Salmon: These should be in water and drained.
- Cottage Cheese: Low-fat versions are best.
Fruits
- Blueberries: Smash them slightly to stick them onto the mat, or set them on top of Greek yogurt.
- Bananas: Mash them into the mat, or place slices on top.
- Apples: Use thin slices, or spread on a puree or sugar-free applesauce.
Vegetables
- Sweet Potatoes: When mashed, they will spready nicely onto the mat.
- Pumpkin Puree: Look for a plain, unsweetened option.
- Carrot Puree: Blend cooked carrots and spread them onto the mat.
Dog Treats
- Dog Biscuits or Jerky: Break them into small pieces and press them into spreads on the mat.
- Training Treats: These are perfect for tucking into grooves in the mat.
- Wet Dog Food: This is an easy thing to spread onto the mat.
Bonus Ideas
- Mix & Match: We recommend mixing and matching different toppings to create your own combinations. For example, try Greek yogurt with blueberries or wet food with training treats.
- Frozen Treats: To extend the fun, put the mat in your freezer after adding toppings. Some good frozen lick mat options include bananas, yogurt, or pureed watermelon.
- Hiding Medication: Hide pills by mixing them into a thick spread like peanut butter or yogurt. Most dogs will be too focused on licking to even notice the hidden medication!
Tips for Using Lick Mats
If you’ve never used a lick mat with your dog before, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Start Simple: Start by adding a small amount of your dog’s favorite treats or foods to the lick mat to attract their interest. Don’t overwhelm them with too many options right away.
- Clean Regularly: Wash the mat thoroughly after each use to prevent bacterial buildup. Most lick mats are dishwasher safe, but you can also scrub them by hand with warm, soapy water.
- Choose Dog-Safe Foods: Some human foods, like grapes, chocolate, onions, and xylitol are toxic to dogs. Always double-check before giving your pet something new, and consult your vet if you’re unsure.
- Supervise Your Dog: Keep an eye on your dog while they use the lick mat, especially if they like to chew. While lick mats are sturdy, some dogs may try to gnaw at them. Remove it if they show signs of chewing.
- Portion Control: It’s easy to overdo calories with lick mats. Stick to small amounts of toppings, especially if your dog is on a specific diet.
Lick mats are a simple yet effective way to enrich your dog’s daily life. They’re easy to use, very customizable, and a great way to keep your furry friend happy and engaged. Experiment with some of these different dog lick mat recipes, and see what your pup loves most.
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For more how-to guides like this one, check out our other Dogs articles.
