Ever feel like your dog gets bored easily? Or maybe they gobble down their food in seconds? Licking mats can be a real game-changer. They’re designed to keep your furry friend entertained, slow down their eating, and even help calm them down during stressful situations like thunderstorms or vet visits. I’ve been using them with my own dog, Max, who’s a bit of a speed-eater, and it’s made a huge difference. Let’s take a look at some of the best ones out there.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Hyper Pet IQ Treat Mat: Great all-around mat, perfect for beginners.
- LickiMat Buddy: Durable and versatile, suitable for various spreads.
- SodaPup Honeycomb Lick Mat: Unique design, good for dental hygiene.
- PAW5 Wooly Snuffle Mat: Not technically a licking mat, but provides mental stimulation.
- Aquapaw Slow Treater: Sticks to surfaces, ideal for baths or grooming.
Top 5 Best Licking Mats For Dogs
1. Hyper Pet IQ Treat Mat
The Hyper Pet IQ Treat Mat is a classic for a reason. It’s a simple, effective way to keep your dog engaged and slow down their eating. This mat features different textured surfaces to hold various treats and spreads, making it a versatile option for any dog.
Pros:
- ✅ Easy to clean.
- ✅ Variety of textures for different treats.
- ✅ Affordable.
Cons:
- ❌ May be too easy for some dogs.
- ❌ Not as durable as some other options.
- ❌ Some dogs might try to chew it.
Verdict: A good starting point for introducing your dog to licking mats, especially if they’re new to puzzle toys.
2. LickiMat Buddy
The LickiMat Buddy is known for its durability and versatility. It’s made from non-toxic, food-grade rubber and features a cross-hatch design that’s perfect for spreading soft foods like peanut butter, yogurt, or wet dog food. I’ve found it holds up really well to frequent use.
Pros:
- ✅ Very durable.
- ✅ Dishwasher safe.
- ✅ Suitable for various food types.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit difficult to clean thoroughly.
- ❌ Some dogs may try to peel it up.
- ❌ More expensive than some basic options.
Verdict: A solid choice for dogs who are tough on their toys and need something that will last.
3. SodaPup Honeycomb Lick Mat
SodaPup Honeycomb Lick Mat stands out with its unique honeycomb design. It’s not just about slowing down eating; the textured surface can also help clean your dog’s teeth and freshen their breath as they lick. Plus, it’s made in the USA!
Pros:
- ✅ Promotes dental hygiene.
- ✅ Made from durable, non-toxic material.
- ✅ Unique and engaging design.
Cons:
- ❌ Honeycomb design might be harder to clean than simpler mats.
- ❌ Can be slippery on some surfaces.
- ❌ Some dogs might not like the texture.
Verdict: A great option if you’re looking for a licking mat that also provides dental benefits.
4. PAW5 Wooly Snuffle Mat
The PAW5 Wooly Snuffle Mat isn’t technically a licking mat, but it’s amazing for mental stimulation. You hide kibble or treats within the fleece strands, and your dog has to “snuffle” to find them. It mimics natural foraging behavior and keeps them entertained for ages. My dog, Max, absolutely loves this thing; it’s like a treasure hunt for him!
Pros:
- ✅ Provides excellent mental stimulation.
- ✅ Machine washable.
- ✅ Good for dogs who eat too quickly.
Cons:
- ❌ Not a traditional licking mat.
- ❌ Requires more effort to set up.
- ❌ Some dogs might try to tear the fabric.
Verdict: If you’re looking for something beyond just a licking mat and want to engage your dog’s natural instincts, this is a fantastic choice.
5. Aquapaw Slow Treater
The Aquapaw Slow Treater is designed to stick to surfaces like your shower wall. It’s perfect for distracting your dog during bath time or grooming sessions. Just smear some peanut butter or yogurt on it, and they’ll be too busy licking to notice what you’re doing.
Pros:
- ✅ Sticks to surfaces.
- ✅ Great for distracting during baths and grooming.
- ✅ Easy to clean.
Cons:
- ❌ Limited surface area.
- ❌ Suction may not work on all surfaces.
- ❌ Not ideal for everyday use.
Verdict: A specialized tool that’s incredibly useful for specific situations like bath time, but not as versatile as other licking mats.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right licking mat for your dog depends on a few key factors. Here’s what to consider:
- Durability: If your dog is a chewer, opt for a mat made from tough, non-toxic materials like food-grade rubber.
- Texture: Different textures offer different levels of engagement. Experiment to see what your dog prefers. Some like deep grooves, others prefer smaller bumps.
- Size: Consider your dog’s size. A smaller mat might be fine for a small breed, but a larger dog might need something bigger.
- Ease of Cleaning: Look for mats that are dishwasher safe or easy to rinse. Trust me, you’ll appreciate this!
- Suction: If you plan to use the mat on vertical surfaces like shower walls, make sure it has strong suction.
- Purpose: Are you using it for meal times, anxiety relief, or distraction during grooming? Choose a mat that suits your specific needs.
FAQs
Q: Are licking mats safe for dogs?
A: Yes, as long as they’re made from non-toxic, food-grade materials. Always supervise your dog when they’re using a licking mat, especially if they’re prone to chewing.
Q: How often should I use a licking mat?
A: You can use a licking mat as often as you like, but start slowly. Some dogs might get bored if they use it too much. I usually use it a few times a week with Max.
Q: What can I put on a licking mat?
A: The possibilities are endless! Peanut butter (xylitol-free!), yogurt, wet dog food, mashed sweet potato, pumpkin puree, and even baby food are all great options.
Q: How do I clean a licking mat?
A: Most licking mats can be washed with soap and water or put in the dishwasher. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for specific cleaning guidelines.
Conclusion
Licking mats are a simple yet effective way to keep your dog entertained, slow down their eating, and reduce anxiety. Whether you choose a basic mat like the Hyper Pet IQ Treat Mat or something more specialized like the Aquapaw Slow Treater, your furry friend is sure to benefit. And who knows, you might even get a few minutes of peace and quiet!
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