Lick Mats 101: The Secret to a Calmer, Happier Dog
If you’ve ever handed your dog a lick mat and watched them suddenly slip into their zen era… you know the magic. But lick mats aren’t just cute enrichment products. They’re one of the most calming, regulating tools you can add to your dog’s daily wellness routine.
This guide breaks down what lick mats actually do, why they work, and how to use them to support a calmer, happier pup every single day.
Welcome to Lick Mats 101. Let’s get into it.
What Exactly Is a Lick Mat?
A lick mat is a flat silicone mat with grooves, textures, or patterns designed to hold soft foods.
But here’s the real magic:
The act of licking is scientifically proven to lower stress and help dogs self-soothe.
Think of licking as your dog’s form of deep breathing - steady, repetitive, and relaxing.
When your dog uses a lick mat, they’re not just enjoying a snack. They’re activating the part of their nervous system responsible for calmness, digestion, and emotional regulation.
The Science Behind Lick Mats
Licking stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps your dog:
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reduce stress
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release calming endorphins
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lower their heart rate
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feel grounded and safe
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stay focused rather than overwhelmed
If your pup struggles with anxiety, gets overstimulated, or has trouble settling… lick mats become an instant tool for emotional balance.
Dog moms call this enrichment. We call it daily doggy therapy.
The Benefits of Using Lick Mats
1. Calming Anxiety + Nervous Energy
Perfect for:
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grooming
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bath time
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nail trimming
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vet prep
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fireworks & storms
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separation anxiety
The calming effect is real and it works fast.
2. Extends Mealtime & Slows Down Eating
Lick mats naturally slow your dog’s eating pace, which is amazing for digestion and prevents overeating.
Great for pups who inhale their food like it’s a race.
3. Mental Stimulation (Without Overwhelm)
Puzzle toys can be too intense for some dogs.
Lick mats offer gentle, soothing enrichment that engages the brain without frustration.
Perfect for puppies, seniors, and anxious pups.
4. Supports Digestive + Gut Health
Use lick mats to offer functional foods like:
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pumpkin
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Greek yogurt
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goat milk
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kefir
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puréed fruits
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bone broth
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mashed veggies
All while letting your dog enjoy slow, intentional licking.
5. Great for Picky Eaters
Texture + flavor + “fun” makes meals more exciting.
Many picky pups engage more when food is spread thinly across a mat.
How to Use a Lick Mat
1. Spread something soft
Try:
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pumpkin
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banana
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yogurt
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peanut butter (xylitol-free)
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wet food
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blended fruit
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goat milk
2. Level it up
Add:
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blueberries
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chia seeds
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shredded carrots
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turmeric pinch
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coconut flakes
3. Freeze it
Freeze for 2-3 hours for:
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longer engagement
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extra calm
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hot days
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teething puppies
4. Use it intentionally
Before:
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car rides
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grooming sessions
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crate time
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stressful events
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mealtime routines
Lick mats = calm before the chaos.
5 Lick Mat Recipes to Try
Calm Your Pup Mat
Greek yogurt + banana + chamomile tea drizzle
Gut-Friendly Pumpkin Spread
Pumpkin + kefir + cinnamon pinch
Berry Glow Up
Mashed blueberries + yogurt + honey optional
Green Smoothie Mat
Spinach + apple + bone broth blended
Peanut Butter Dream
PB (xylitol-free) + mashed sweet potato
Which Dogs Benefit Most from Lick Mats?
Honestly? Almost all of them.
But especially:
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anxious dogs
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doodles (hi Lola!)
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high-energy pups
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picky eaters
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dogs recovering from surgery
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seniors with slower mobility
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teething puppies
Lick mats are gentle, safe, and age-friendly.
Safety Tips for Dog Moms
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Always supervise chewers (or choose a heavy-duty mat).
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Use dog-safe ingredients only.
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Wash thoroughly after each use.
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Freeze for teething puppies.
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Avoid sweeteners, nutmeg, and seasoned food
Final Dog Mom Era Note
Lick mats aren’t a trend. They’re a wellness ritual.
A tiny moment of calm that helps your dog regulate their emotions, enjoy their food, and experience a soothing sense of peace in their day.
It’s enrichment, bonding, digestion support, and stress relief… all in one simple tool.
If you want an easy, everyday way to help your dog feel calmer and happier, this is it.
Welcome to your Lick Mat Era - your dog is going to thrive here.
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