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Spread a thin layer of soft, dog-safe food (wet food, plain pumpkin, xylitol-free peanut butter) over the mat, place it on a non-slip surface and let your dog lick it clean. Freeze it for longer sessions.
How to use a lick mat in 5 steps
- Pick a soft, spreadable food. Wet dog food, plain pumpkin puree, mashed banana or xylitol-free peanut butter all work.
- Spread a thin layer. Use the back of a spoon to press food into the grooves. Thin is better than thick, because your dog must lick to reach it.
- Place the mat on a flat, non-slip surface. A suction base or a damp towel under the mat keeps it from sliding.
- Stay close for the first few times. Watch that your dog licks and does not chew the silicone.
- Take it away when it is empty. Wash it right away so food does not dry in the pattern.
Want more detail on benefits and recipes? Read our full article on lick mats for dogs.
Safe toppings (and what to avoid)
| Safe in small amounts | Never use |
|---|---|
| Plain pumpkin puree | Anything with xylitol (some peanut butters) |
| Unsweetened plain yogurt | Chocolate |
| Mashed banana | Grapes and raisins |
| Wet dog food | Onion and garlic |
| Xylitol-free peanut butter | Macadamia nuts |
| Plain cooked sweet potato | Salty or heavily seasoned foods |
More vet-safe ideas are in our best lick mat toppings and recipes.
How long should a lick session last?
A thin layer of food usually keeps a dog busy for 10 to 20 minutes. Freezing the mat for a few hours makes it last longer, which is useful on hot days or during a stressful event. Count the calories in the topping and reduce the next meal if you use a lot.
When a lick mat helps most
| Situation | How to use it |
|---|---|
| Bath or grooming | Stick the mat to the wall at nose height |
| Nail trims | Offer a frozen mat as a distraction |
| Fireworks or storms | Give a mat in a quiet room |
| Home alone | Give a frozen mat just before you leave |
| Fast eaters | Serve part of the meal on the mat |
For anxious dogs, see how lick mats calm anxious dogs. If you want a mat that is easy to clean and dishwasher safe, choose a food-grade silicone slow licking mat.
How to Use a Lick Mat: Recipes and Rules
The key numbers and a printable checklist from this guide, sent to your inbox. A 15% discount code is included.
Frequently asked questions
How do you use a lick mat for dogs?
Spread a thin layer of soft, dog-safe food over the grooves, place the mat on a flat surface and let your dog lick it clean.
What can I put on a lick mat?
Wet dog food, plain pumpkin, unsweetened yogurt, mashed banana and xylitol-free peanut butter are popular choices.
How long does a lick mat take?
Usually 10 to 20 minutes, and longer when the food is frozen.
Is a lick mat safe for dogs?
Yes when used with supervision and made of food-grade silicone. Stop if your dog starts chewing the mat.
Should I freeze a lick mat?
You can. Freezing slows licking and is helpful for hot weather and stressful moments.
Sources (links checked October 2026)
- Enriching Your Pets Environment with Their Food VCA Animal Hospitals
- People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets ASPCA
General information, not a substitute for veterinary advice. Talk to your vet about the needs of your own pet.
Mahmoud Mohamed Samir is an SEO/GEO Specialist who turns veterinary research into clear, practical feeding guides, built so pet parents get straight answers whether they search on Google or ask an AI assistant.
View all articles by Mahmoud
