Let’s be real—dogs are basically toddlers with fur. They get bored easily, need constant stimulation, and can sniff out the peanut butter jar from 3 rooms away. That’s where licky mats for dogs come in. These humble little mats are the canine equivalent of a brain-teasing puzzle, snack plate, and stress ball—all rolled into one.

Whether your pup is a gourmet foodie or a trash panda in disguise, the possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing a lick mat. But, you will always have a question, “what to put on dog licking mat?”

From anxious Chihuahuas to energetic Labradors, there are licky mat ideas for every breed, dietary preference, and personality type. So let’s dig into the tastiest and healthiest ways to keep your pup licking—safely and happily!

What is a Dog Lick Mat?

A lick mat for a dog is a flat rubber or silicone mat, often grooved and textured on top, designed to hold wet or sticky treats. As your dog licks the top to reach the good stuff, they're doing a repetitive, soothing thing that calms their mind and fulfills their natural desire to forage.

Licky mats aren’t just about spoiling your pooch—they serve real purposes. They help reduce anxiety (especially during grooming or thunderstorms), mentally stimulate your dog, and even slow down fast eaters who inhale their food like vacuum cleaners.

What to Put On Dog Lick Mat? Top 7 Ideas

Curious about what to put on dog lick mat? You've come to the right location! Whether you refer to it as a licky mat for dogs, a licki mat, or simply a sanity-saver, these mats are multiplied by a factor of ten when you load them with the appropriate treats. These ideas for dog lick mats are not only tasty but are also nutrient-dense.

Here are the top 7 tasty (and healthy!) dog lick mat ideas:

1. Natural Peanut Butter (Xylitol-Free)

Peanut butter is the top dog treat overall and perfect for a licky mat. It's rich in protein and healthy fat, so your dog will lick for a long time. Just make sure it's xylitol-free, as it is toxic to dogs and totally forbidden. Stick with natural types that don't contain extra sugar or salt. A spoonful does the trick and is an excellent once-in-a-while treat.

2. Greek Yogurt with Fruit Toppings

Plain Greek yogurt is packed with probiotics that are wonderful for your dog's digestive system. It's soft, spreadable, and provides a wonderful platform for fruit toppers. Fruits to use as toppers include blueberries, sliced strawberries, or apples (seeds removed!). It's not only a belly-beneficial treat but also packed with antioxidants and vitamins.

3. Wet or Raw Dog Food

If your dog eats raw or wet food, spread their regular meals onto the lick mat for a more stimulating feeding experience. This will help them eat slowly and avoid gulping. Wet or raw dog food also has more moisture, which aids in hydration—especially useful for dogs that don't drink enough water on their own.

4.  Mashed Banana & Sweet Potato

Mashed banana boasts a good dose of potassium and vitamin B6, and sweet potatoes are full of fiber and beta-carotene. Combined, they form a silky, healthy spread that freezes beautifully and is even better to adore. This particular combination is great for sensitive tummies and pups that require a bit of gastrointestinal help.

5. Fish (Salmon, Shrimp, Tuna)

These fish contain a high concentration of Omega-3 fatty acids, which improve coat shine, brain function, and joint health. A small amount is sufficient! Use salmon or tuna. Avoid salt, garlic, or onion-flavored fish, as they are toxic to dogs. This is a wonderful protein addition, particularly for older pups.

6. Cream & Cottage Cheese

Dairy? Yes, but in moderation. Cream cheese and cottage cheese are tasty and creamy, making them perfect for spreading. They’re full of calcium and protein, but not all dogs digest lactose well. Opt for lactose-free versions or limit portion sizes to avoid tummy troubles. Bonus tip: Hide medications in these spreads for a sneaky delivery!

7. Minced Chicken & Eggs

Lean and protein-rich, minced chicken (cooked, unseasoned) mixed with a little scrambled or boiled egg makes for a hearty lick mat meal. It’s ideal for active dogs who burn a lot of energy. Be sure to cook both thoroughly—raw eggs can carry salmonella, which is a risk to both pets and humans.

Bonus dog lick mat ideas:

• Pumpkin Purée – A digestion booster that’s also low-calorie and filling.
• Goat’s Milk or Kefir – Loaded with probiotics for gut health.
• Unsweetened Applesauce – A naturally sweet treat that’s easy to spread.

Incorporate these ideas and stop getting confused thinking about “what to put on lick mats for dogs.”

What are the Benefits of Lick Mats for Dogs?

Still curious about why lick mats are more than a fad enrichment tool? Here's the lowdown on how they benefit your dog's physical and emotional health. Call it canine stress relief, dog enrichment, or a sneaky trick to outsmart boredom, the advantages are real.

Reduces Anxiety & Stress

Licking releases calming hormones like endorphins and serotonin—nature's chill pills for your dog. This makes lick mats perfect during stressful events like thunderstorms, vet visits, or when you leave. Pet parents adore lick mats to ease separation anxiety and promote calm behavior.

Encourages Slow Eating

Some dogs inhale food like a Dyson on turbo mode, which can cause bloating, gas, or even severe digestive problems. Spreading food out over a textured lick mat slows them down considerably. This slow feeding advantage aids digestion and prevents tummy issues.

Mental Stimulation & Boredom Relief

Chewing and licking are instinctive behaviors that naturally engage your dog’s brain. Think of it as a puzzle-meets-snack situation. This dog enrichment activity provides focus and entertainment, especially for pups stuck indoors or recovering from surgery. Keeping them mentally active = fewer couch cushion casualties.

Great for Picky Eaters

Got a pup who turns up their nose at kibble? Lick mats can turn mealtime into a fun game. Mixing in favorites like peanut butter or pumpkin puree can tempt reluctant eaters and help develop positive associations with food.

Supports Dental Health

As your dog licks the ridged surface, the mat serves to scrape away plaque and debris from their teeth and tongue. Though not a substitute for chews or brushing, lick mats can be added to your dental care regimen and ensure bad breath is avoided.

Conclusion

Whether you’ve got a fussy foodie or a ball of endless energy, lick mats are a total game-changer for dogs of all kinds. Wondering what to put on a dog lick mat or just searching for some fresh licky mat ideas? 

The good news is that you’ve got tons of tasty, healthy options to play with. Think protein-rich chicken and eggs, gut-friendly yogurt topped with fruit, or even a swirl of peanut butter for the ultimate treat. Mealtime just went from basic to paw-sitively exciting!