The lick mat is one of the simplest and most effective enrichment tools you can offer your dog. With just a few minutes of preparation, it provides deep decompression, stimulates the brain, and reduces anxiety. Here is everything you need to know to use it properly.

Table of contents

• What is a lick mat?
• The benefits of the lick mat
• How to use it
• What to put in the lick mat?
• The frozen mat trick
• Which dogs is it particularly recommended for?
• How to clean and maintain the rug
• Frequency and duration of sessions
• Frequently Asked Questions

What is a lick mat?

A licking mat (also known as a lick mat) is a textured surface, usually made of food-grade silicone, designed to hold soft or semi-liquid food that the dog retrieves by licking. The ridges, grooves, and patterns of the mat hold the food and force the dog to work to reach it, turning a simple meal or treat into a mental stimulation activity.

There are various formats and textures available: suction cup models (to stick to a smooth surface during bathing or grooming), floor mats, or even bowl versions to slow down food intake.

The benefits of the lick mat

Licking is a naturally soothing behavior for dogs. It is a repetitive and rhythmic movement that activates the parasympathetic nervous system (the one responsible for calmness and relaxation) and releases endorphins. In other words, licking decompresses the dog in a very direct and physiological way.

Mental stimulation

Working to extract food from the textures of the mat engages the dog's brain. Like any enrichment activity, it creates healthy mental fatigue and reduces undesirable behaviors linked to boredom. To learn more about why mental stimulation is as important as physical exercise, read our article on natural solutions for an anxious dog.

Stress and anxiety reduction

The lick mat is one of the most effective tools for calming a dog before or during a stressful event: owner departure, thunderstorms, fireworks, vet visits, or grooming. Offered 15 to 20 minutes before the event, it initiates a state of calm that persists.

Slow down food intake

Dogs that eat too fast risk vomiting, bloating, and in extreme cases, gastric torsion. The licking mat, used as an alternative bowl, forces the dog to eat slowly and work for every bite.

Positive distraction during care

Stuck with a suction cup to the bathroom wall or a door, the licking mat effectively occupies dogs who struggle with bathing, nail trimming, or brushing. It is a positive distraction that creates pleasant associations with these moments.

Chewing supplement

The licking mat and natural chews are two complementary tools. Licking soothes through its repetitive rhythm, while chewing soothes through chewing pressure. Using both alternately offers a variety of beneficial enrichment.

How to use the lick mat

The introduction should be gradual, especially if your dog has never seen this type of accessory before.

Step by step

• Step 1: spread a thin layer of a food your dog loves onto the mat. Do not overfill the grooves to start: you want the first experience to be easy and positive
• Step 2: place the mat on the floor and let your dog explore it freely, without forcing or excessively encouraging them
• Step 3: let them lick for 5 to 10 minutes, then put the mat away even if they haven't finished everything. This maintains their interest
• Step 4: gradually increase the food density in the grooves and try freezing the mat to extend the session

If your dog carries the mat in its mouth instead of licking it, secure it with a suction cup or place it on a non-slip surface.

What to put in the lick mat?

The basic rule: a soft food that is safe for dogs and that your dog truly loves. Here are the best options.

The essentials

• Natural peanut butter: check that it does not contain xylitol, a sweetener that is toxic to dogs. Opt for a 100% peanut butter with no added sugar
• Pumpkin puree: high in fiber, gentle on digestion, and highly enjoyed by most dogs. Choose the plain version, without spices
• Plain greek yogurt: no added flavor, rich in protein and probiotics. Excellent for digestive health
• Mashed banana: sweet, sugary, and popular, to be used in moderation due to its sugar content
• Cream cheese (Philadelphia style): plain, no onion or garlic. In small quantities only
• Wet dog food: simple and effective, ideal for dogs who are not interested in human food
• Salt-free chicken broth: mixed with soaked kibble or vegetable purée, excellent as a liquid base

Blends that work well

• Pumpkin puree + Greek yogurt (alternating layers in the grooves)
• Peanut butter + mashed banana
• Chicken broth + soaked kibble + cream cheese
• Wet food + cooked sweet potato puree

What to avoid

• Anything containing xylitol (dangerous, even in small amounts)
• Chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic (toxic for dogs)
• High-calorie foods in large quantities if your dog is watching its weight

The frozen mat trick

This is the next level. By freezing the topped mat for a few hours before giving it to your dog, you significantly extend the duration of the session (15 to 30 minutes instead of 5 to 10) and intensify the soothing effect. The dog has to work longer for each lick, which deepens the state of relaxation.

It is particularly useful for:

• Hot summer days (with a cooling effect as a bonus)
• Long absences (give it at the time of departure)
• Highly stressful situations (imminent storm, fireworks)

Prepare several mats at the same time and freeze them. You will always have a mat ready to use in your freezer.

Which dogs is it particularly recommended for?

• Anxious dogs: The soothing effect of licking is proven. It is one of the simplest and most effective tools for managing daily anxiety.
• Big eaters: for dogs that gulp down their meals in 30 seconds and risk digestive issues, the mat effectively slows down food intake
• Dogs in recovery: post-op, injured, or on forced rest, they need mental stimulation without physical effort. The licking mat is perfect in this context
• Senior dogs: With age, physical exercise may be limited, but the need for mental stimulation remains. The licking mat is accessible to all ages.
• Puppies: excellent for channeling energy and starting to build frustration tolerance in a positive way
• Dogs that do not tolerate grooming or care well: used with a suction cup, it creates an effective distraction during bath time or nail trimming

To combine multiple enrichment approaches, consult our guide on 10 natural solutions for an anxious dog.

How to clean and maintain the rug

A poorly cleaned rug can become a breeding ground for bacteria, especially if fresh food like yogurt or wet food has been spilled on it.

Clean after each use

• Most food-grade silicone mats are dishwasher safe (top rack, normal cycle)
• Sinon, rincez à l'eau chaude et frottez avec du savon à vaisselle doux et une brosse à poils souples pour atteindre les rainures
• Allow to dry completely before storing or reusing

Regular checks

Periodically check that the silicone is not torn, cracked, or bitten. If your dog begins to chew the mat instead of licking it, remove it immediately and replace it. Swallowed pieces of silicone can cause a digestive obstruction.

Frequency and duration of sessions

There is no strict rule, but here are a few guidelines:

• To prevent daily stress: once a day, for 10 to 20 minutes, preferably in the morning or before a period of forced quiet (your departure, a video meeting, etc.)
• Before a stressful event: offer the frozen mat 15 to 20 minutes before the event to initiate a state of calm
• As a slow feeder bowl: at every meal if your dog eats too fast

Regularly varying the toppings maintains interest. A dog that always receives the same topping will eventually lose interest.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can you put in a dog lick mat?
Xylitol-free peanut butter, pumpkin puree, plain Greek yogurt, mashed banana, cream cheese, wet food, or salt-free chicken broth. When frozen, the calming effect is even more intense and the session lasts longer.

How to use a lick mat for the first time?
Spread a thin layer of a favorite treat, place the mat on the floor, and let your dog explore. No need for excessive encouragement. Remove the mat after 5 to 10 minutes, even if they haven't finished everything.

How often should you use the licking mat?
Once or twice a day for mental stimulation. Before stressful events, offer it 15 to 20 minutes in advance to initiate calmness. Vary the toppings to maintain interest.

Is the lick mat good for all dogs?
Yes. It is particularly beneficial for anxious dogs, fast eaters, dogs in recovery or with reduced mobility, and seniors.

How to clean a lick mat?
Most are dishwasher safe (top rack). Otherwise, use warm water + mild soap + a soft brush. Clean after each use, especially if you have used fresh food.

How long should a dog spend on its mat?
Between 5 and 20 minutes depending on the content. When frozen, the mat can keep the dog occupied for 15 to 30 minutes. Avoid sessions that are too long, as they could lead to frustration.

What we recommend at Sherbrooke Canin

Sherbrooke Canin, the licking mat is one of our favorite enrichment tools. We often recommend it as a supplement to a good chewing routine : both sets offer a complete stimulation and decompression program for your dog's daily routine. Visit our store in Sherbrooke or contact us for personalized recommendations based on your dog's profile.

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