Here’s the truth most people miss: licking isn’t just about taste: it’s about therapy. When dogs lick, they’re not just going after the flavor; they’re self-soothing, releasing endorphins, and grounding themselves in the moment.
It’s their version of yoga… minus the mat, plus peanut butter.
That’s why lick mats have quietly become one of the best enrichment tools for modern pet parents. They’re simple, affordable, and surprisingly powerful for calming anxious dogs, slowing fast eaters, and turning plain snacks into full-blown sensory experiences.
And yes, once your dog figures out how much fun these things are, you might have a hard time getting the mat back.
What Are the Best Lick Mats for Dogs?
Here are a few I would recommend:
You know that uneasy whine when your dog first settles into their crate? That’s anxiety in motion. A crate-friendly lick mat turns that nervous energy into focus. Designed with a sturdy back knob that hooks securely onto wire crates, this mat stays right where it should—no sliding, no falling, no frustration.
The grooves are deep enough to hold peanut butter or yogurt, slowing your dog’s licking rhythm into something almost meditative.
I first tried one with my first Cavalier, Bentley, back in 2010, when crate training felt like an endless battle. Within a week, he’d go into her crate willingly, tail wagging, because to him, that space meant peanut butter zen time.
Picture bath time as a splashy showdown: you versus a slippery, suspicious dog. Now imagine attaching a suction cup lick mat to your shower wall. Suddenly, your dog’s too busy savoring a layer of Greek yogurt to notice the running water.
These mats come with dozens of tiny suction cups (77, if you’re counting) that stick to tile, glass, or even a stainless tub wall. The surface has four distinct textures, each one perfect for different spreads, from pumpkin purée to soft cheese.
Multi-Functional Slow Feeder Mat
Now this one? It’s the Cadillac of lick mats. Measuring a whopping 31.5 x 20 inches, the multi-functional slow feeder mat is less a treat accessory and more a full dining experience.
It combines four feeding zones—wet food, dry food, water, and slow-feed textures—making it ideal for multi-dog households or pups that inhale their meals like a Dyson vacuum.
And here’s the bonus: those intricate patterns (clover, fish bone, floral) don’t just slow eating—they clean teeth and massage gums while your dog enjoys a built-in enrichment session.
What Should You Put in Your Dog’s Lick Mat?
Here’s the fun part. Deciding what goes on that silicone masterpiece. Think of it like prepping a charcuterie board for your dog, only everything on it is tail-wag approved.
Let’s start simple, then move on to some creative combos your dog will absolutely love.
Single-Ingredient Lick Mat Ideas for Dogs
Sometimes, simple really is best. These single-ingredient options are perfect for quick boredom busters or when you’re testing new foods.
- Peanut Butter – Make sure peanut butter is all-natural and does not contain xylitol. Xylitol is toxic to dogs—even tiny amounts can be dangerous.
- Plain Greek Yogurt – A probiotic-rich option that’s creamy, cooling, and great for digestive health. Choose unsweetened, unflavored yogurt with no artificial additives.
- Pumpkin Purée – A fiber-packed favorite that supports healthy digestion. Use plain canned pumpkin, not pumpkin pie mix.
- Mashed Banana – Naturally sweet and loaded with potassium. Plus, it spreads beautifully into all those tiny grooves.
- Unsweetened Applesauce – Gentle on the stomach and great for picky eaters. Bonus: it smells amazing while your dog licks it clean.
- Cottage Cheese – Soft, tangy, and protein-rich. Go for low-fat, low-sodium versions if your dog’s sensitive to dairy.
- Canned Sweet Potato – Smooth, vitamin-rich, and easy to spread. It’s basically nature’s peanut butter for dogs.
- Baby Food (Dog-Safe Flavors) – Look for Stage 1 baby foods with no onion or garlic powder. Chicken, beef, or pumpkin blends work great.
- Goat’s Milk or Kefir – Pour just enough to coat the mat, then freeze for a probiotic popsicle effect.
And yes, your fridge will start to look suspiciously like a dog café menu, but you’ll get no complaints from your furry critic.
Lick Mat Topping Combinations
Once you’ve mastered the basics, try layering flavors and textures. The goal? Keep your dog mentally engaged and excited for what’s next. These combinations turn a few pantry staples into lickable masterpieces.
1. Banana Blueberry Smoothie
Ingredients: plain Greek yogurt, banana, blueberries
Instructions: You can do this in two ways. First, blend yogurt, banana, and ½ cup of blueberries in a blender and pour the mixture onto the lick mat. Freeze for an hour.
If you don’t want to use a blender, spread Greek yogurt as the base layer on the mat. In a small bowl, mash the banana and blueberries together, then spread that fruity mix on top. Serve right away or chill for 20 minutes for extra firmness.
2. Pumpkin Delight
Ingredients: pumpkin purée, plain yogurt, ground flaxseed
Instructions: Mix pumpkin and yogurt in equal parts. Sprinkle a pinch of flaxseed on top for fiber and omega-3s. This one’s perfect before bedtime—it soothes the tummy and calms the mind.
3. Apple Cinnamon Crunch
Ingredients: unsweetened applesauce, Greek yogurt, a dash of cinnamon (optional)
Instructions: Spread yogurt first, top with applesauce, and lightly sprinkle cinnamon. Freeze for 15–20 minutes for a creamy, apple pie–inspired treat. (Your dog won’t care about the theme, but you’ll feel like a gourmet.)
4. Savory Chicken Spread
Ingredients: shredded cooked chicken, plain yogurt, a drizzle of low-sodium broth
Instructions: Mix the chicken and yogurt, then add just enough broth for a creamy texture. Spread evenly across the mat. Great for picky eaters or after-bath bribery sessions.
5. Sweet Potato & Banana Mash
Ingredients: mashed sweet potato, banana, a touch of peanut butter
Instructions: Combine all ingredients and mix until smooth. Spread across the mat and freeze for 30 minutes for a firm, long-lasting lick.
Feeding Guidelines
Before you load up your dog’s lick mat like it’s an all-you-can-lick buffet, let’s talk portion control. A lick mat is meant to enrich, not overfeed.
Even though those spreads (like peanut butter, yogurt, or sweet potato) are packed with nutrients, they can also be surprisingly calorie-dense.
As a rule of thumb, dog treats (including lick mat toppings) should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s total daily calories. The rest should come from their balanced, regular diet. For example, if your dog needs 600 calories a day, no more than about 60 of those should come from lick mat treats.
And yes, that includes those “healthy” add-ons like bananas or pumpkin (natural doesn’t always mean low-calorie).
Bottom line: moderation keeps your dog happy, healthy, and excited for the next licking session, without turning that treat time into a hidden calorie trap.
Benefits of Using a Lick Mat for Your Dog
It Relieves Anxiety and Promotes Calm
The rhythmic motion of licking does more than just clean the mat, it actually helps calm your dog’s nervous system. When dogs lick, their brains release endorphins that promote relaxation and comfort. If your pup gets anxious during crate time, grooming, or vet visits, a lick mat can act like a natural stress reliever.
It Encourages Slower Eating
If your dog devours meals faster than you can blink, a lick mat helps hit the brakes. The textured surface forces them to slow down and savor each lick, which aids digestion and prevents choking or bloating. It’s the canine equivalent of switching from fast food to a five-course meal.
It Provides Mental Stimulation
Dogs crave brain work just as much as physical activity. Lick mats turn mealtime or treat time into an engaging puzzle. Every groove and ridge keeps them thinking and problem-solving as they lick. This kind of enrichment helps fight boredom (especially for dogs left home alone for part of the day).
It Improves Dental Health
As your dog licks across different textures, the gentle friction helps clean their tongue and gums while reducing bacteria buildup. Over time, this can help freshen their breath and support better oral hygiene. It’s not a replacement for brushing, but it’s a tasty assist.
It Builds Positive Associations
You can use a lick mat to make stressful moments (like nail trims or baths) more positive. When your dog learns that “bath time” means “snack time,” you’re rewriting their emotional script. I’ve seen grooming-resistant dogs suddenly trot to the tub, tails wagging. (Trust me, that’s a small miracle.)
It’s Fun
At the end of the day, a lick mat is pure joy for your dog. It turns a basic snack into a satisfying activity that keeps them happy and busy. It’s something they can do independently while still feeling connected to you. And let’s be honest, it’s pretty entertaining for us too.