Lick mats for dogs
I licked a mat and I liked it.
Looking for a lick mat for your dog? Then you've come to the right place! Lick mats are the smart solution for dogs that eat quickly, get bored quickly or could use some extra calm. More and more conscious dog owners are discovering the power of licking: it's not only fun (and hilarious to watch), but also good for your dog's mental health.
At Shop with Marley's, you'll find a fun and sustainable range of dog lick mats—from sturdy slow-feeding varieties to soft lick mats for puppies and sensitive snouts. Whether you're looking for a suction-cup lick mat, an extra-large lick mat, or a compact model for on the go, we've got your tail covered.
What is a lick mat?
A lick mat is a flat mat with a structure of grooves, ribs or studs. You spread something tasty on it - think of natural dog peanut butter, mashed banana, wet food or yoghurt - and your dog can slowly lick it off. Because he has to make an effort to get to the tasty, he eats slower and calmer. And that has a lot of advantages for his body and his head. A lick mat is therefore more than a snack accessory. It is an enrichment tool that contributes to a balanced, relaxed and happy dog life.
The benefits of a lick mat for dogs
Why are more and more dog owners choosing a lick mat? Simple: it works. And it works on multiple levels at once. Here are the main benefits of a lick mat for dogs:
- Peace and relaxation. Licking has a calming effect. It stimulates the production of endorphins – the happiness hormone – and helps dogs to de-stimulate. Ideal for stressful moments such as thunderstorms, fireworks, visitors or after a busy walk.
- Mental challenge. A lick mat challenges your dog mentally. He has to use his nose, tongue and brain to get to the treat. This prevents boredom and gives satisfaction. An important part of mental enrichment for dogs.
- Slower eating. For dogs that eat their food in one bite, a slow feeding lick mat is a godsend. It helps against gobbling, improves digestion and reduces the risk of vomiting or gas formation.
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Dog enrichment without the mess. Unlike snuffle mats or food toys that spread kibble throughout the house, a lick mat stays neatly in place (especially the suction cup versions!). Handy and hygienic.
- Use during grooming. A lick mat with suction cups can be stuck to the wall during washing, brushing or nail clipping. While you are busy with the coat, your dog is focused on his treat. Win-win!
- Medication support. Does your dog need to take pills? Hide them in a thick layer of wet food or dog peanut butter on a lick mat. There's a good chance he'll lick it up without any trouble.
When do you use a lick mat?
A better question is actually: when not? A lick mat for dogs is so versatile that you can use it at almost any time of the day. Think of a relaxing snack moment after a long walk, a soothing distraction in stressful situations such as fireworks or visitors, or as an aid in giving medication. Some dogs get their breakfast from a lick mat as standard, simply because it ensures a calmer start to the day.
A lick mat also comes in handy during grooming. Stick one with suction cups to the bathroom wall while you are washing or brushing your dog, and the focus is no longer on the shampoo, but on that creamy layer of dog peanut butter. It is a game changer for sensitive types or dogs who find grooming moments exciting.
Even if your dog is bored or overstimulated, a lick mat is a smart way to divert his attention. Licking relaxes, stimulates the brain and helps to reduce energy in a healthy way. And if you really do it right, you can freeze the filled lick mat for an hour for an extra cooling and long-lasting zen moment.
What can you put on a lick mat?
Anything spreadable and dog-friendly will work. Peanut butter for dogs (no salt or xylitol) is a classic, but you can also think of mashed banana, pumpkin puree, raw meat, steamed vegetables, wet food, yogurt, or a little broth.
For variety, you can create layers (for example, first some wet food, then yogurt, then a topping of kibble), or add superfoods such as hemp seed, spirulina or turmeric. This way it is not only tasty, but also nutritious.
For an extra challenge (and cooling) you can freeze the filled mat. Especially in the summer this is a favorite: a cold snack that really keeps your dog busy for a while.
Which dogs benefit from a lick mat?
Actually any dog. But especially:
- Puppies that still need to learn to eat calmly.
- Smart dogs that get bored easily.
- Overweight dogs benefit from eating more slowly.
- Senior dogs looking for peace and quiet during their meal.
- Sensitive dogs with stress or separation anxiety.
- Dogs that need to be given medication and prefer to lick it from a snack rather than a spoon.
Slowfeeder or lick mat: what is the difference?
A slow feeder is a food bowl with obstacles, intended to slow down bite-swallow-gone behavior. Perfect for kibble or raw food. A lick mat is flatter and more focused on calming behavior through slow licking movements. You use it more often for spreadable snacks than for a whole meal.
Many people combine both: slow feeder for dinner, lick mat as a snack or mental challenge. Or the slow feeder and lick mat as part of a daily enrichment ritual.
Sustainable lick mats at Shop with Marley's
Of course you want what you buy to be safe for your dog and the planet. That's why at Shop with Marley's you'll only find lick mats from brands we trust:
- Made from BPA-free silicone or natural rubber
- Dishwasher safe or easy to clean
- Long lasting, even with fanatic lickers
- And tested by our Chief Snuffle Officer: Marley herself
Favorites? Think Sodapup (solid and colorful), Lickimat Soother (soft and puppy-proof).
Lick mats are indispensable in every dog's life
A lick mat is not a toy. It is an enrichment tool, a calming agent, a smart aid for gobbling or stress and just a fun way to give your dog something extra every day. Whether you have a puppy, a senior, a glutton or a stress-sensitive four-legged friend: there is always a lick mat that suits you. And yes, Marley tested them all herself (she even asked for a second round). So: time for a little extra peace, fun and licking fun in the house? Then browse through our collection and find your perfect lick mat for your dog.
