Let’s face it — dogs love to lick! It helps them stay calm, gives them mental stimulation, and diverts their attention. That’s why lick mats are the perfect addition to your home if your dog is anxious, has limited exercise, or doesn’t like bath time. They can also be used as slow feeders for dogs who tend to wolf down their food since the ridged pattern traps food, making it harder for dogs to eat. Many dog parents use the back of a spoon to spread peanut butter, minced meat, or yogurt onto the mat to encourage the licking. But which are the best lick mats for your pet? We’ve done the research, so you don’t have to.
When choosing a mat, be sure to look for one that:
- Uses safe and durable materials like silicone
- Has a textured surface for effective licking
- Is the appropriate size and shape for your dog
- Has suction cups or grips for stability
- Is easy to clean and dishwasher-safe
- Doesn’t have small parts or sharp edges
- Safety features like no small parts or sharp edges
Many dog owners enjoy it when their pets shower them with affectionate licks. A survey found 97 percent of dog owners allow their pooches to lick them. However, another study found this seemingly harmless behavior could pose health risks. Research indicates that dogs and cats can transmit antibiotic-resistant bacteria to their owners through licking, highlighting the importance of caution when allowing pets to lick faces. Maybe a lick mat is the perfect solution for directing your puppy’s licks to the right spot.
After purchasing a lick mat, you may wonder if your dog can use it daily. Dog experts say yes, but make sure you supervise your pet so they don’t devour the mat. Another benefit to buying one of these mats? It can help with dental care because there’s nothing worse than bad doggy breath. Scraping the tongue on the mat increases saliva production and cleans the tongue, teeth, and gums!
Is your dog ready for their new favorite thing? This is the ultimate lineup of the best lick mats to delight your furry friend. We’ve meticulously curated the most frequently endorsed options from eight leading pet websites. Have you discovered a standout lick mat that isn’t featured here? Share your valuable insights in the comments section below.
➡️ How Our “Best Of The Best” Lists Are Created
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The List: Best Lick Mats For Keeping Your Dog Happy
1. Aquapaw Premium Licking Mat
This lick mat is a top dog if your pooch is anxious. VetStreet says it’s small but sticks to any flat surface, including tile — making it perfect during bath time. It also travels well and can help keep your dog entertained during visits to the vet.
DogLab agrees that this puppy shines in the bathroom. The website says, “The three suction cups held strong no matter where we placed it – shower glass, side of the bathtub or even the tiled wall.” This brand makes lick mats in different sizes and keeps your dog busy for a while. Fresh peanut butter took a dog about ten minutes to lick off, while frozen peanut butter took about 21 minutes.
This picks up the “Most Durable” vote from Retrievist. Reviewers say it’s perfect when your dog is getting its nails trimmed and is easy to remove and throw in the dishwasher.
2. LickMat Wobble Slow Feeder
If you want a lick mat that’s a little more challenging, this wobble-style bowl fits the bill. VetStreet says because of the unique shape, it will require “more effort for your pet to get the treats.” It’s safe for the freezer, microwave, and dishwasher and can be used as a slow feeder.
Since it is harder, it lasts longer than other lick mats. DogLab says mealtime can last at least “30 minutes and the bowl shape is good for chunkier foods.” It can also be set up like a dome for spreadable treats.
This is a great option for “energetic eaters, as it slows them down and makes it challenging for them to gulp down food,” according to DogTime. Also, your dog will continue to lick it until the dish is clean, thanks to the dimpled surface.
3. LickiMat Classic Buddy
If you want a mat that provides your dog with different textures, you’re in luck with the LickiMat Classic Buddy. According to Retrievist, it has three different patterns for small kibble, runny foods, and spreadable treats. It’s also silicone-free and dishwasher-safe.
DogLab is so in love with this mat, saying it “hits the sweet spot” in so many ways. Based on licking time, size, and ease of cleaning, the website believes “nothing else comes close.”
A lot of dog owners say this pad will keep their dog busy for up to 30 minutes. Rover.com says if you freeze the treats they will last longer than fresh ones.
4. Mighty Paw Dog Lick Pad
If you worry your dog will carry the lick pad from room to room around the house, this one has suction cups to keep it in place. According to VetStreet it’s “BPA-free, dishwasher-safe, and has four different patterns” to offer your dog a variety of experiences. It’s also larger than most other pads, so it will keep your dog busier and calmer for longer periods.
While you will still need to clean your dog’s teeth, this lick pad gets high marks for “scraping your pup’s front teeth.” According to Rover.com, the pad helps increase saliva production, which helps keep the mouth clean.
Since this pad has four different sections, The Spruce Pets encourages you to try one at a time or use all four together and let your dog have a field day!
5. Hyperpet IQ Treat Mats
If you like to give your pet frozen foods to lick, this is the ideal mat and that’s why it rounds out our list. According to Rover.com, you fill this mat with your dog’s favorite treats, stick it in the freezer, and it’s ready for your dog’s tongue in a few hours.
This comes in a two-pack, with different patterns. The Spruce Pets says you can test which pattern your dog likes the best, or if you have two dogs, they both can have one at the same time.
According to DogTime, these mats are “easy to spread goodies on” and keep bored dogs busy. However, they don’t have suction cups so if your dog likes to carry the mat around, it may make a mess.
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