A lick mat is a special way to soothe or distract your dog and serve fun treats in a unique way. Typically, the size of a small plate, the lick mat resembles a shallow bowl with small patterned spikes (made of silicone, plastic or rubber) protruding from the mat. By spreading a soft, spreadable treat on the mat, your dog will have to lick around the obstacles several times to get the whole thing. Not only does licking provide soothing benefits, but it takes longer to clear the mat and can hold his attention for several minutes at a time.
“Licking mats can benefit many types of dogs,” says Amanda Catherine, veterinarian and medical advisor to Pets Nirvana. “Licking has an anti-anxiety effect on dogs, so it can be helpful for anxiety-prone dogs. We can also use it as a distraction for stressful situations such as strangers in the house, vet visits and grooming appointments.”
Below, we’ve rounded up the best dog lick mats on the market.
1. Kilin Dog Lick Mat
For money-conscious pet parents, the Kilin dog lick mat is a great option at $6.99. This BPA-free, food-grade silicone mat is safe for your pet. It offers two textures in one mat, to provide a soothing licking surface and a slow feeding option. The licking mat cleans easily with soap and water or in the dishwasher.
The suction cups on the back of the mat allow it to be attached to smooth, clean surfaces so the dog doesn’t chase it across the floor, or vacuumed onto tubs or walls so pups can lick themselves while you bathe them. They commit customer service to resolving any issues within 12 hours. Choose from small or large sizes and several color options. The Kilin dog lick pad is dishwasher safe or hand wash and air dry.
Pros:
Affordable price
Food grade silicone for safety
Two textures for multiple uses
Dishwasher safe
Two sizes and different colors are available
Suction stand for vertical placement
4,200 reviews on Amazon and an average of 4.4 stars.
Cons:
Reviewers note that the suction does not hold well.
Buy: Kilin Dog Lick Mat
2. Neater Pets Neat-Lik
Dogs who eat poorly can benefit from this all-in-one slow feeder that prevents messes. The Neat-Lik dog licking mat is contained in a tray to keep floors clean. The tray prevents chew-happy dogs from targeting the lick mat or carrying it around the house.
You can buy the lick mat in packs of one or two, and you can choose to include the tray for each option, too. The combination of two mats and the tray is a great deal at under $20. Made of food-grade rubber and non-toxic, the lick mat is dishwasher safe, but wash it on low to prevent warping.
Pros:
A high-end product, but still at an affordable price
Optional tray holds dirt
Dishwasher safe in upper rack
Food safe rubber composition
Options for one or two mats, with or without tray
Weight keeps it in place
Two color options
500 reviews on Amazon and an average of 4.5 stars
Cons:
Can get wet and smelly between the rubber mat and the tray.
Buy: Neater Pets Neat-Lik
3. LickiMat Wobble
From the same company that created the LickiMat comes the Wobble, which offers the same LickiMat concept in a bowl format. Its brilliant design makes it a functional bowl, but with all the benefits of a slow feeder and lickable target.
Made from food-grade recycled rubber, the bowl’s “wobble” adds another dimension that slows feeding, prevents food ingestion and bloating, and allows dogs to focus on self-grooming activity. This version is microwave, freezer and dishwasher safe. Turn it upside down for easy cleaning.
Pros:
Excellent choice on Amazon
Made from food-grade recycled rubber
Bowl shape adds an extra challenge
Great for people who don’t chew
Microwave, freezer and dishwasher safe.
Available in four colors
4,600 reviews on Amazon and an average of 4.5 stars
Cons:
Some users have complained of a strong rubbery smell.
Watch the child to avoid chewing it
Buy: LickiMat Wobble
4. Aquapaw Slow Treater
The Aquapaw Slow Treater’s unique three-wing design, which was a hit on Shark Tank, makes it stand out in the shower or for suction cup attachment to any vertical surface. Use this licking mat for dogs of all ages and sizes, but the smaller size is perfect for puppies, who benefit from the chew-resistant FDA-grade silicone. You can use it in the freezer and its dishwasher is safe.
Pros:
The small size is ideal for toy breeds or puppies.
Recommended by the behavior professionals at Fear Free Pets.
FDA grade silicone material
Freezer and dishwasher safe
Chew resistant
Suction keeps it in place
Works well for grooming, including baths.
4,500 reviews on Amazon and an average of 4.4 stars.
Cons:
Some users complain of cleaning difficulties
The suction doesn’t last long, sometimes you have to reset it.
Monitor your pet, as large chewers can destroy it
Buy: Aquapaw Slow Treater
FAQ
Are licking mats good for dogs?
Yes, they are especially useful for shy dogs who are anxious, but also for confident dogs who can benefit from a long-lasting treat dispenser.
What can I put on my dog’s lick pad?
You can put almost anything on your dog’s lick pad that won’t disrupt his digestion. Here are a few common choices that make dogs cringe:
Almond or peanut butter (without xylitol)
cheese spray
Yogurt
Canned dog food
Canned cat food
Fish paste (sardines or tuna in a blender)
Baby food (pureed meat or sweet vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes)
Can I leave my dog alone with a licking mat?
No, as a pet behavior expert, I do not recommend it. Most lick mats are not tooth resistant, and once dogs have licked all the treats, they can chew them. Besides destroying the lick mat, dogs easily swallow the small pieces of plastic which can cause indigestion - or a blockage requiring surgery - at worst.
Is a licking mat a mental stimulus?
Absolutely!
